Kinds of forklifts:
A major consideration when purchasing a forklift is whether to go with internal combustion, electric or hybrid. Every technology has its disadvantages and advantages. It is really essential to distinguish one type of forklift from another and to pick the best one for the application. The information below could help you to choose the forklift which best fits all your needs.
The long-term cost savings is a key benefit of utilizing electric forklifts. The initial expense to buy extra batteries might seem expensive, but you save some money by not having to buy fuel and transport it to the work location. If you use some type of alternative energy source, like solar panels or windmills, you could save even more money.
The downside of electric is that downtime for charging the lift and changing out the batteries has to be factored in. This technology continues to improve as new ways of using electric technology advances.
Variations on Forklifts:
Stand-up rider forklifts - These electric-powered forklifts have counterbalance weights built into the body and are made so that the driver rides within the body of the truck.
Stand-up, narrow aisle rider - The type normally used for areas with tight spaces. Instead of having counterweight within its body, this electric forklift is made with straddle legs on each side to be able to provide stability.
Sit-down rider - At the rear of the sit-down-rider, you could locate the counterbalance.
Motorized hand-pallet jacks - It is a low-lift truck which has forks and is made so that the operator could stand on the back. Other models are made to be walked.
Reach forklift - This kind 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.