Forklifts are categorized into the following types based on the structure:
Standard Trucks: Standard Trucks make up the sturdy and large units that are normally used inside factories. Standard trucks can normally carry weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades can carry cargo up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: The reach truck or narrow aisle lift truck are usually smaller, more maneuverable and runs mostly on electricity. These types of equipment are particularly designed for pallet storage. They are capable of carrying cargo up to 40 feet in height. If you want unloading and raising weights quickly and over long distances, than a reach truck would not be the best type of machine for your requirements.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle lift trucks or order selectors could be used to transport racked loads that are much smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are unique in that they are capable of lifting both the truck operator and the load up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also referred to as walkies, walkie riders and riders. These units are aptly named due to the fact that the operator is not required to sit in the machinery in order to operate it. Instead, the driver walks beside the truck as it moves the load.
Swing Mast Trucks: The swing mast truck to standard models of trucks. These are machinery with a narrow aisle and have masts that could 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 can raise the operator and the load. Furthermore, these trucks are capable of swinging their forks 90 degree on each side.
Go to your local lift truck dealership to see all of these different units and determine what in particular will be best for your application. If you want to rent before you purchase, this is a very 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 for your forklift dealer and be truthful regarding what the company's requirements are when you are discussing the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
There are such a range of models available on the market these days, there is absolutely a forklift available to get your tasks done, whatever they are.