The basic structure of the categorization of forklifts consists of the following:
Standard Trucks: Standard Trucks make up the sturdy and large units which are usually utilized in warehouses. Standard trucks can normally lift weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades could carry cargo as high as 20 feet.
Reach Truck: The reach truck or narrow aisle lift truck are normally smaller, more maneuverable and runs mostly on electricity. These equipment are specially designed for pallet storage. They could lift loads 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 option for your needs.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle lift trucks or order selectors could be utilized to transport racked loads which are much smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are unique in that they can lift both the load and the truck operator up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: The motorized pallet truck has been referred to by lots of names such as: walkies, walkie riders and riders. These models are aptly named because of the fact that the operator is not required to sit in the machine to be able to operate it. Instead, the driver walks along the side of the truck as it transports the load.
Swing Mast Trucks: Swing Mast Trucks are similar in appearance to typical units of trucks. These are vehicles with a narrow aisle and have masts which could swing up to 90 degrees, just in one direction.
Turret Trucks: The turret truck has been designed to operate in very narrow aisles. Similar to an Order Selector, they could raise the driver as well as the cargo. Moreover, these kinds of trucks can swing their forks ninety degree on each side.
Visit your local forklift dealership to see all of these different models and determine what in particular will be right for your application. If you want to rent before you buy, this is a good option for you so you can try out various units prior to making such a huge purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask your forklift dealer and be honest regarding what the company's requirements are when you are talking about the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
Nowadays, there is such a wide variety of lift truck models available, that it does not matter where you are, you would be able to find the best forklift for your company.