The basic structure of the categorization of forklifts consists of the following:
Standard Trucks: The standard lift truck is a tough and strong model and the most commonly utilized lift trucks inside warehouses. Standard trucks can typically carry weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades could lift cargo up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: The reach truck or narrow aisle forklift are normally smaller, more maneuverable and runs mostly on electricity. These kinds of equipment are specifically designed for pallet storage. They are capable of carrying cargo up to 40 feet in height. If you want unloading and raising weights over long distances and fast, than a reach truck will not be the best option for your application.
Order Selector: Order Selectors are very narrow aisle trucks that are used to transport racked loads that are smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are different in that they could raise both the truck operator and the cargo as high as 40 feet.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also referred to as walkies, walkie riders and riders. These units are appropriately named because of the fact that the operator is not required to sit inside of the machine to be able to operate it. Instead, he walks along the side of the truck as it moves the cargo.
Swing Mast Trucks: Swing Mast Trucks are similar in appearance to standard models of trucks. These are machines with a narrow aisle and have masts that can swing up to 90 degrees, just in one direction.
Turret Trucks: Turret Trucks are also designed with a very narrow aisle. Like an Order Selector, they could raise the driver and the load. Moreover, 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 lease before you buy, this is a great option for you to be able to check out various units before making such a large purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask your lift truck dealer and be very truthful about what the company's requirements are when you are discussing the facts with a reliable dealer.
Today, there is such a wide array of forklift units available, that it does not matter where you are, you would be able to find the right lift truck for your company.