The basic structure of the categorization of forklifts consists of the following:
Standard Trucks: The standard lift truck is a rugged and strong unit and the most commonly used forklift in warehouses. Standard trucks could usually lift weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades could carry cargo up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: Reach Trucks are a different name for narrow-aisle lift trucks. Usually, these machines run on electricity. These machines are specifically made for pallet storage. They could lift loads up to 40 feet in height. If you want lifting and unloading weights over long distances and quickly, than a reach truck would not be the best kind of equipment for your application.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle lift trucks or order selectors could be used to transport racked loads that are a lot smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are different in that they could raise both the load and the truck driver up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also called walkie riders, riders, and walkies. These models are appropriately named due to the fact that the operator is not required to sit inside of the vehicle to be able to operate it. Instead, the driver walks beside the truck as it moves the load.
Swing Mast Trucks: Swing Mast Trucks are similar in appearance to standard units of trucks. These are equipment with a narrow aisle and have masts that could 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 can lift the load and the operator. Additionally, these types of trucks could swing their forks 90 degree on each side.
Go to your local lift truck dealership to see all of these different models and determine which one in particular will be right for your application. If you would like to lease before you buy, this is a really good alternative for you so you could check out different units prior to making such a large purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask your forklift dealer and be very honest regarding what the company's requirements are when you are talking about the facts with a dependable dealer.
Nowadays, there is such a huge range 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.