There are 2 types of lift trucks, based whether or not they run on gas or electricity:
Internal Combustion or IC Lift trucks: The Internal Combustion Forklifts run on liquid propane, gas, CNG or compressed natural gas or diesel. The gas powered models are meant to be utilized outdoors as they release pollutants and gases that could be harmful if inhaled. Units that run on gasoline are also great for use in bad weather conditions and in the rain. These units can carry weights roughly 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel costs, units which run on gas are much more expensive to utilize compared to the electric models, although, they cost much less up front than the electric models. The liquid propane models are the best option to be used in indoor applications.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric forklifts take batteries that require frequent charging. Because these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machines. They are the best alternative for indoor applications and warehouses. Moreover, lift trucks which run on electricity are much quieter to run than other units and they do not need any fuel storage units. One of the downsides of the electric units is that they could not lift loads over 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration than gasoline powered models.
Lift trucks are specifically designed to easily and quickly move heavy cargo with simplicity. As the case with most types of machines, unfortunately, forklift mishaps do occur on a regular basis. There are some safety regulations which should be followed in order to keep everybody safe. The most important concern is recruiting a qualified operator, who could show you a valid forklift license.
On the market these days, there are many different styles of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your specific requirements will be based on the kind of environment your equipment will need to operate in, for example, indoors or outdoors or both and what types of loads that you need to transport. When you understand your particular needs, it would be easy to match up to the best type of lift truck. When you know all your needs exactly you could make an accurate decision.
Another great way to get first hand experience on the different lift truck models is the try leasing your forklift. This will also enable you to see all the possible options available to you. This is a cheaper way to know if the type of machinery you have in mind could keep up with you on the job site.