The basic structure of the categorization of lift trucks comprise the following:
Standard Trucks: Standard Trucks make up the strong and big models which are often used in warehouses. Standard trucks can normally carry weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades can carry loads up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: Reach Trucks are another name for narrow-aisle forklifts. Generally, these machines run on electricity. These machines are specially designed for pallet storage. They can lift 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 right kind of machinery for your application.
Order Selector: Order Selectors are very narrow aisle trucks that are used to move racked loads that are smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are unique in that they can lift both the truck driver and the load up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also called riders, walkies and walkie riders. These models are appropriately named due to the fact that the driver is not required to sit inside of the machine in order to operate it. Instead, he walks beside the truck as it moves the cargo.
Swing Mast Trucks: The swing mast truck to standard models of trucks. These are machines with a narrow aisle and have masts that 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 can lift the cargo as well as the operator. Additionally, these trucks are capable of swinging their forks ninety degree on each side.
Visit your local forklift dealership to see all of these various models and determine what in particular would be best for your application. If you would like to rent before you buy, this is a very great alternative for you so you could check out different units before making such a large purchase. Make certain you have a list of questions to ask your forklift dealer and be honest about what the company's needs are when you are discussing the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
Nowadays, there is such a wide array of lift truck units available, that it does not matter where you are, you will be able to find the best forklift for your business.