Kinds of forklifts:
A major consideration when purchasing a forklift is whether to go with internal combustion, electric or hybrid. Every technology has its advantages and disadvantages. It is really vital to be able to distinguish one kind of forklift from another and to select the right one for the application. The following info can help you to pick the type of forklift that best fits your requirements.
A major advantage of electric is long-term cost savings. The first expense to buy extra batteries can seem expensive, but you actually save a lot of money by not having to buy fuel and bring it to the work site. If you utilize some type of alternative energy source, such as solar panels or windmills, you can save even more money.
The drawback of electric is that changing out the batteries and downtime for charging the lift has to be factored in. This technology continues to get better as new methods of utilizing electric technology advances.
Variations on Forklifts:
Stand-up rider forklifts - Designed so that the operator rides in the body of the truck, these electric-powered forklifts have counterbalance weights built into the body.
Stand-up, narrow aisle rider - Best for areas with tight spaces. Rather than having counterweight inside its body, this electric forklift is designed with straddle legs on each and every side in order to provide stability.
Sit-down rider - The counterbalance is situated at the rear of this sit-down rider.
Motorized hand-pallet jacks - This low-lift truck has forks and is made for the driver to stand on the back. Other models are designed to be walked.
Reach forklift - This type of forklift has a boom for long reach. The forklift is designed to be stable on surfaces that are uneven by having the outriggers at the front.