Articulated forklifts
When a standard forklift is too large or you need more maneuverability, an articulated forklift can be helpful. It has a forked lifting device that can turn left or right independent of the body of the truck, allowing the operator to drive in a straight line while turning the fork to access loads or staging areas. Articulated forklifts are used for loading and unloading trailers in smaller spaces, warehouses, cold storage units and factories.
Counterbalance forklifts
The counterbalance forklift is one of the most popular lifts used for indoor warehouses. It has forks at the front and a weight in the back that counterbalances loads. This forklift comes in three-wheel and four-wheel models. The three-wheel forklift gives greater maneuverability while the four-wheel model provides more stability and greater maximum load weight. There is also a stand-up counterbalance forklift that allows operators to enter and exit the vehicle easily during use. Counterbalance forklifts are used in indoor storage and distribution centers.
Explosion-proof forklifts
Explosion-proof forklifts are used for jobs when you want to mitigate the threat of an explosion or fire. For example, a paint factory might store flammable and combustible materials so it would be helpful to use an explosion-proof forklift at this site. These forklifts have sealed electrical components and nonsparking bronze elements in place of metal. Explosion-proof forklifts are typically fitted with monitors that shut down the machine if hazardous gases are registered in the atmosphere. Explosion-proof forklifts are used in the production, handling, processing and storage of perfumes, cosmetics, paints, printing inks, pharmaceuticals and rubbers.
High-capacity cushion forklifts
The high-capacity cushion forklift is ideal when a job calls for carrying a heavy load. These types of forklifts have models to carry up to 55 tons. Compared to other forklifts, these models feature a limited amount of adjustability and portability but can be very helpful at large construction sites and other locations where substantial loads are transported. High-capacity cushion forklifts are used in manufacturing plants and warehouses.
Industrial forklifts
An industrial forklift can lift heavier loads than standard forklifts with a maximum carrying capacity of up to 15 tons and a high degree of stability because of its size. These forklifts have the combined functionality of warehouse and telescopic lifts. Compared to the telescopic forklift, it cannot reach as far or maneuver as flexibly, but it has a much higher carrying capacity. Industrial forklifts are used in large warehouses.
Marina forklifts
Marina forklifts are designed for high-capacity lifting and transporting boats in and out of storage depots. The lifting forks are typically made of rubber to withstand the destructive nature of seawater on standard metals. Marina forklifts are used in marinas and boat storage facilities.
Order picker forklifts
An order picker forklift, often referred to as a “cherry picker,” is a subtype of a pallet truck and can reach as high as 32 feet. It is designed to lift the driver while still operating the truck. These forklifts are designed to only pick up one or two units rather than entire pallets. Order picker forklifts are used in customer order warehouses and distribution centers.
Pallet trucks
A pallet truck, sometimes called a “pallet jack,” is a small forklift to lift and transport pallets quickly. These vehicles do not have cabs as they are quite small. The forklift may be manual, called a “walkie stacker,” or equipped with an electric motor with the operator walking behind it. The most common use is unloading semitrailers and moving materials to a staging area where a standard forklift can move them elsewhere.
Reach forklifts
Reach forklifts are designed for indoor use and feature forks that extend much higher than most models. They have stabilizing legs in the front to take the brunt of the weight and steady the load. They are easy to maneuver and use in close spaces. Reach forklifts also provide an open compartment to give the operator a greater degree of visibility during use. Reach trucks are typically used in warehouses with tight spaces and high storage.
Rough terrain forklifts
Rough terrain forklifts are designed for outdoor use and can be helpful when the terrain is irregular, rough or unbalanced. They have large pneumatic tires typically found on large vehicles like tractors that won't slip on wet surfaces or be punctured by sharp rocks. A calibrated counterbalance in the back prevents them from toppling over. Their engines are more powerful than indoor forklifts, allowing them to reach a higher speed. Typically, rough terrain forklifts have a telescopic mast for greater reach and flexibility. Rough terrain forklifts are used at construction sites and other outdoor locations.
Side loader forklifts
Side loaders are a subtype of a counterbalance forklift designed for indoor use. They have forks attached to the side instead of the front. They are helpful in narrow spaces where turning is difficult. Side loaders are used to handle long objects such as metal pipes, sheets and timbers. There is a sideways compartment for the vehicle operator who can choose to move, lift and carry loads without having to turn. Side loader forklifts are typically used in manufacturing plants.
Telescopic forklifts
Telescopic forklifts, also called “telehandlers,” combine the maneuverability of a forklift with the utility of a crane. These forklifts are used for unloading cargo in odd angles and tight spaces. They have a boom with an arm that extends out of a retracted position, allowing for convenient storage when not in use. Telescopic forklifts can lift heavy loads up to 55 feet in the air. Telescopic forklifts are used in agriculture or any task requiring high lifting.
Warehouse forklifts
The warehouse forklift is a subtype of counterbalance forklift commonly used in warehouses and storage facilities. It is designed with twin forks on the front. These forklifts are designed for carrying multiple items at one time or loading and unloading small- to medium-sized pallets from delivery trucks.
How to choose the right forklift
With many different types, a few guiding principles will help you find the right one for your business. Here are some steps you can follow to help narrow your search and make a more informed decision:
