Kinds of forklifts:
A major consideration when buying a forklift is whether to go with internal combustion, electric or hybrid. Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to distinguish one type of forklift from another and to pick the right one for the application. The following info could help you to select the forklift which best fits all your needs.
A major benefit of electric is long-term cost savings. The initial expense to buy spare batteries can seem costly, but you actually save a lot of money by not having to buy fuel and bring it to the work location. If you utilize some type of alternative source of energy, like for example solar panels or windmills, you can save even more money.
The disadvantage of electric is that downtime for charging the lift and changing out the batteries has to be factored in. This technology continues to get better as new ways of using electric technology advances.
Variations on Forklifts:
Stand-up rider forklifts - Designed so that the operator rides inside the body of the truck, these electric-powered forklifts have counterbalance weights constructed into the body.
Stand-up, narrow aisle rider - The kind generally utilized for areas with tight spaces. Instead of having counterweight in its body, this electric forklift is designed with straddle legs on each side to provide stability.
Sit-down rider - At the rear of the sit-down-rider, you could locate the counterbalance.
Motorized hand-pallet jacks - This low-lift truck has forks and is made for the operator to stand on the back. Other versions are made to be walked.
Reach forklift - Utilized for long reach, this kind of forklift has a boom. The forklift is designed to be stable on surfaces which are uneven by having the outriggers at the front.