There are two basic kinds of lift trucks, units that run on gas and those which run on electricity:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The IC forklift will run on fuels like liquid propane, gas, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered models are great for outdoor use because they emit pollutants and gases which are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Units which run on gasoline are also suitable for use in bad climate and in the rain. These units could lift weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the fuel expenses and maintenance, models that run on gas are a lot more expensive to use than the electric units, although, they cost a lot less up front compared to electric powered models. The liquid propane units are the right option to be used in indoor applications.
Electric Forklifts: The electric forklift units are powered by very huge batteries that should be recharged. The vehicles do not produce any polluting air emissions like these models do not burn any fuel. They are the best option for warehouses and indoor applications. Moreover, forklifts that run on electricity do not need any fuel storage units and they are much quieter to run than other units. Amongst the disadvantages of electric powered units is that they are unable to lift cargo more than 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered models.
Lift trucks are specially made to quickly and easily transport heavy loads with simplicity. As the case with most types of machinery, unfortunately, lift truck mishaps do occur frequently. There are some safety rules that must be followed to be able to keep everyone safe. The most important issue is recruiting a trained operator, who will be able to show you a valid lift truck license.
On the market nowadays, there are many different kinds of lift trucks available. Deciding which one is best for your specific requirements will be based on the kinds of loads which you have to transport, what kind of environment your machine would have to operate in, like for instance, indoors or outdoors or both. When you know your particular needs, it would be easy to match up to the best kind of lift truck. When you understand all your needs exactly you could make the best decision.
Another great way to get first hand experience on the different lift truck units is the try renting your forklift. This would also allow you to see all the possible options available to you. This is a cheaper way to know if the kind of machinery you have chosen could keep up with you on the job location.