There are actually 2 types of forklifts, predicated whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
IC or Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The Internal Combustion forklift would run on fuels like gas, liquid propane, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. Gas powered models are great for outdoor use because they emit gases and pollutants which are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Gas models are also great to be utilized in the rain and in bad weather conditions. These models can carry weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the fuel costs and maintenance, the gas powered units are a lot more costly to utilize than units that run on electricity, although, they cost less up front compared to electric powered models. Models which run on liquid propane are the best choice to be used in indoor applications.
Electric Forklifts: The electric lift truck units are powered by very huge batteries which should be recharged. The machines do not produce any polluting air emissions as these models do not burn any fuel. They are the right choice for warehouses and indoor use. Also, lift trucks which run on electricity are much quieter to run compared to other models and they do not require any fuel storage units. Among the disadvantages of the electric units is that they are unable to carry loads over 15,000 pounds and therefore, have a slower acceleration compared to the models which utilize gasoline.
Lift trucks are specially designed to easily and quickly transport heavy loads with simplicity. As the case with nearly all types of machinery, unfortunately, forklift accidents do occur regularly. There are some safety regulations which need to be followed so as to keep everyone safe. The most essential issue is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid lift truck license.
On the market these days, there are many different types of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your specific needs will be based on the type of environment your machine will have to operate in, like for instance, indoors or outdoors or both and what types of loads which you need to transport. Once you understand your specific requirements, it would be easy to match up to the right kind of lift truck. When you understand all your requirements precisely you can make an accurate choice.
Another great way to get first hand experience on the various forklift units is the try leasing your forklift. This would also enable you to see all the possible options available to you. This is a less expensive way to know if the type of equipment you have in mind could keep up with you on the job site.