6 Types of Forklifts to Consider

Work in a warehouse involves a lot of lifting and transporting heavy pallets, boxes, and shipping containers. Whether your warehouse is large or small, you should always use the proper equipment to promote warehouse efficiency and safety. The proper equipment is a forklift.

Each warehouse has different needs, and not all forklifts are the same. Here is an overview of six different types of forklift to consider using in your warehouse.

Electric Forklifts

Electric forklifts are the classic forklift design that many think of when they hear the word "forklift." True to their name, these forklifts are powered by industrial batteries and function using electrical transistors. Because they are electric, this common type of forklift is very popular in enclosed warehouses where engine fumes would be a concern.

Electric forklifts come in a number of different configurations, but usually feature sit-down operation with a seat for the driver. They do not feature extendable forklift arms but drive right up to the load, whether it's on the floor or on an overhead shelf. Their capacity makes them ideal for loading trucks and moving stacks of pallets around a warehouse.

Narrow Aisle Trucks

Like electric forklifts, narrow aisle forklift trucks are powered by electricity and come in a number of different configurations. Unlike the standard forklift, narrow aisle trucks may feature a sideways fork rather than a forward-facing one, or a fork mounted on the side of the truck. And instead of a sit-down cab, narrow aisle forklifts usually incorporate a stand-up space for the operator.

These modifications enable this type of forklift to navigate narrow aisles, as they can load and offload items from the side and take up less space overall. For this reason, narrow aisle trucks are often referred to as side loaders.

Order Pickers

Order pickers are a subtype of narrow aisle trucks that are specifically designed to reach high shelves. Like other narrow aisle trucks, they are equipped with a stand-up operating cabin to take up less space, but these forklift models actually move the cabin (and the fork) to heights of up to 32 feet. This enables the operator to see the loads they are lifting off higher shelves.

They are meant to handle loads smaller than full-size pallets, which makes them perfect for gathering different products and assembling a warehouse order.

Pallet Trucks

When your employees simply need to move a pallet to a different part of the floor, they can use a pallet truck, also known as a hand truck. There are several different types of pallet trucks, including pallet jacks and walkie stackers, but all are operated similarly.

These types of forklifts have the operator walk behind the truck, steering with a hand tiller that has the lift controls mounted on it. These types of forklifts are usually much smaller, which makes them ideal for tight spaces and smaller loads that are too heavy to lift by hand.

Cushion Tire and Pneumatic Tire Forklifts

Cushion tire and pneumatic tire forklifts use internal combustion engines rather than electricity. Like electric forklifts, they usually come in a standard forklift design with four wheels. These types of forklifts usually have a greater load capacity than electric forklifts, which can make them a useful commodity in warehouses that handle large containers.

Cushion or solid tire forklifts of this type are usually intended for indoor use, but forklifts with pneumatic tires can also be used outside, as they are less susceptible to the hazards of rougher terrain.

Rough Terrain Forklifts

Though pneumatic tire forklifts can be used outdoors, the rough terrain forklift is the best choice when you need to move loads on difficult surfaces. This type of forklift most resembles a tractor and is ideal for lumberyards, construction sites, and areas covered with mud, snow, or ice. Rough terrain forklifts are exclusively used outside, as they might damage indoor warehouse floors.

Forklifts are a must-have for any warehouse, but the type you need depends on your warehouse layout, load requirements, and industry. Contact Lift Solutions, Inc., for solutions to your forklift needs. We also have a wide variety of forklifts available to rent.