Kinds of forklifts:
A major factor when buying a forklift is whether to opt for electric, hybrid or internal combustion. Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages. It is important to differentiate one kind of forklift from another and to pick the best one for the application. The information below could help you to select the forklift which best fits your requirements.
The long-term cost savings is a major benefit of utilizing electric forklifts. The initial outlay to buy spare batteries could seem costly, but you actually save some money by not having to buy fuel and transport it to the work location. If you use some type of alternative source of energy, like for example solar panels or windmills, you could save even more money.
The downtime for charging the lift and changing out the batteries are amongst the downsides of utilizing electric forklifts. This technology continues to improve as new methods of using electric technology advances.
Variations on Forklifts:
Stand-up rider forklifts - Designed so that the driver rides inside the body of the truck, these electric-powered forklifts have counterbalance weights constructed into the body.
Stand-up, narrow aisle rider - The type normally used for areas with tight spaces. Rather than having counterweight inside its body, this electric forklift is made with straddle legs on every side to provide stability.
Sit-down rider - At the rear of the sit-down-rider, you can locate the counterbalance.
Motorized hand-pallet jacks - This low-lift truck has forks and is designed for the operator 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 which are uneven by having the outriggers at the front.