The basic structure of the categorization of forklifts consists of the following:
Standard Trucks: Standard Trucks make up the strong and large models that are normally used inside warehouses. Standard trucks could usually carry weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades could carry cargo as high as 20 feet.
Reach Truck: The reach truck or narrow aisle lift truck are usually smaller, more maneuverable and runs mostly on electricity. These machinery are particularly made for pallet storage. They are capable of lifting loads up to 40 feet in height. If you want unloading and lifting weights quickly and over long distances, than a reach truck will not be the best type of machine for your needs.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle forklifts or order selectors can be utilized to move racked loads which are much smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are different in that they are capable of raising both the load and the truck operator up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also called riders, walkies and walkie riders. These units are appropriately named because of the fact that the driver is not required to sit in the equipment in order to operate it. Instead, he walks beside the truck as it transports the cargo.
Swing Mast Trucks: The swing mast truck to regular models of trucks. These are vehicles with a narrow aisle and have masts which could swing up to 90 degrees, only 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 driver and the load. Furthermore, these trucks could swing their forks 90 degree on each side.
Visit your local lift truck dealership to see all of these different units and determine what in particular will be right for your application. If you want to lease before you buy, this is a good option for you to be able to check out different units before making such a large purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask your forklift dealer and be honest about what the company's needs are when you are talking about the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
There are such a variety of units available on the market today, there is absolutely a forklift available to get your jobs completed, whatever they are.