Forklifts are categorized into the following types based on the structure:
Standard Trucks: The standard lift truck is a rugged and durable model and the most frequently used lift trucks in factories. Standard trucks can typically carry weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades could lift loads up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: The reach truck or narrow aisle lift truck are usually smaller, more maneuverable and operates mostly on electricity. These machinery are specially designed for pallet storage. They could lift cargo up to 40 feet in height. If you desire unloading and lifting weights fast and over long distances, than a reach truck will not be the right type of machine for your application.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle forklifts or order selectors could be used to transport 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: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also called walkie riders, riders, and walkies. These models are appropriately named because of the fact that the operator is not required to sit in the vehicle in order to operate it. Instead, the driver walks along the side of the truck as it transports the cargo.
Swing Mast Trucks: Swing Mast Trucks are similar in appearance to typical units of trucks. These are machinery with a narrow aisle and have masts that can swing up to 90 degrees, just in one direction.
Turret Trucks: The turret truck has been designed to operate in very narrow aisles. Like an Order Selector, they could lift the operator and the load. Additionally, these types of trucks are capable of swinging their forks 90 degree on each side.
Visit your local lift truck dealership to see all of these different models and determine what 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 try out different units before making such a huge purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask your lift truck dealer and be honest regarding what the needs of business are when you are discussing the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
There are such a variety of units available on the market these days, there is certainly a forklift available to get your jobs completed, whatever they are.