Forklifts are categorized into the following types according to the structure:
Standard Trucks: Standard Trucks make up the sturdy and large models that are normally used in factories. Standard trucks can usually lift weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades can carry cargo up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: Reach Trucks are a different name for narrow-aisle forklifts. Usually, these equipment run on electricity. These types of equipment are particularly designed for pallet storage. They are capable of lifting cargo up to 40 feet in height. If you desire raising and unloading weights over long distances and fast, than a reach truck will not be the right kind of machinery for your requirements.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle forklifts or order selectors can be used to move racked loads that are a lot smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are unique in that they are capable of lifting both the truck operator and the cargo up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: The motorized pallet truck has been called by many names such as: walkie riders, riders, and walkies. These units are aptly named due to the fact that the operator is not required to sit inside of the machinery in order to operate it. Instead, the driver walks beside the truck as it transports the cargo.
Swing Mast Trucks: Swing Mast Trucks are similar in appearance to typical units of trucks. These are machines with a narrow aisle and have masts which can swing up to 90 degrees, just in one direction.
Turret Trucks: The turret truck has been designed to operate in very narrow aisles. Similar to an Order Selector, they could lift the operator and the cargo. Additionally, these kinds of trucks are capable of swinging their forks 90 degree on each side.
Go to your local forklift dealership to see all of these various models and determine which one in particular will be best for your application. If you would like to rent before you purchase, this is a great alternative for you to be able to check out various units before making such a big purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions for your lift truck dealer and be very honest regarding what the requirements of business are when you are discussing the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
Today, there is such a wide range of lift truck models available, that it does not matter where you are, you would be able to find the right forklift for your company.