There are actually 2 types of lift trucks, based whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
IC or Internal Combustion Forklifts: The Internal Combustion lift truck will run on fuels like liquid propane, gas, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. Gas powered models are great for outdoor use since they release pollutants and gases that are harmful to employees and pedestrians. Models which run on gasoline are also suitable for application in bad climate and in the rain. These units can carry weights around 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the fuel costs and maintenance, units that run on gas are more costly to use than the electric units, although, they cost much less up front than electric powered units. The liquid propane models are the right option to be used indoors.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric forklifts take batteries which need frequent charging. Because these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machines. They are the best choice for warehouses and indoor use. Also, electric lift trucks are much quieter to run compared to other models and they do not need any fuel storage units. Amongst the downsides of electric powered models is that they could not carry cargo more than 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration than gasoline powered models.
Lift trucks are specially made to easily and quickly transport heavy loads with ease. As the case with nearly all kinds of machines, unfortunately, lift truck accidents do occur on a regular basis. There are specific safety rules which have to be followed to be able to keep everyone safe. The most vital issue is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid lift truck license.
There are many different types of forklifts offered on the market. Choosing which one is best for your particular needs would be based on the kind of environment your equipment will need to operate in, for example, outdoors or indoors or both and what kinds of loads which you have to transport. When you understand your particular needs, it would be really easy to match up to the best type of lift truck. When you understand your needs precisely you could make the right decision.
Another great way to get first hand experience on the various forklift models is the try renting your forklift. This would also enable you to see all the possible choices available to you. This is a less expensive way to determine if the type of machine you have in mind can keep up with you on the job location.