For companies that lift and move heavy materials and merchandise regularly, there is probably no more effective or valuable equipment as the forklift. Lift trucks are a common site in manufacturing plants, dockyards, distribution depots, lumber yards, agriculture, warehouses, shipping and receiving and other work places that has to handle loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus lbs.
Fork trucks are normally used to keep these operations working smoothly and efficiently. Though lift trucks are a large investment, the amount of man hours they could save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting could make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
Available on the market these days are a lot of different models from a lot of different manufacturers. These different units are designed specifically to deal with certain specific jobs. In order to make sure that you don't buy more than you require or the wrong kind of machinery, it is important to evaluate the needs of your company and compare to the different units on the market. Talking to a licensed forklift distributor is a great idea and so is doing your own research online.
When looking at forklifts by the type of fuel, the following kinds are available:
Electric: Electric forklifts utilize large, heavy, rechargeable batteries that are lead-acid based. These batteries are able to run for roughly 5 or 6 hours straight. Electric units are great for indoor use due to their lack of emissions. They are a popular choice for warehouses and retail spaces as they provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where individuals are working.
Internal Combustion: Internal combustion forklifts work with a variety of fuels. Some units take CNG or compressed natural gas, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. When compared to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC models accelerate faster, are easier to refuel and can carry heavier loads. These models are usually more expensive to operate than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: Hydrogen fuel cell forklifts are the newest in forklift technology. These models provide the fast refueling capability of an IC unit but offer the zero emissions and quietness of electric lift trucks.
Nissan's outdoor units would provide synchronized steering. This feature automatically returns the wheel knob to the original position following completing a turn. Outfitted with solid pneumatic tires to provide a comfortable ride both outdoors and indoors, these tires are more resistant to both damage and wear.