Forklifts are categorized into the following types according to the structure:
Standard Trucks: Standard Trucks make up the strong and large units which are often utilized inside factories. Standard trucks can typically lift weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades can carry cargo as high as 20 feet.
Reach Truck: The reach truck or narrow aisle lift truck are usually smaller, more maneuverable and runs mostly on electricity. These machines are specially made for pallet storage. They are capable of lifting cargo up to 40 feet in height. If you want unloading and raising weights fast and over long distances, than a reach truck will not be the right option for your needs.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle forklifts or order selectors could be utilized to transport racked loads that are much smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are different in that they can raise both the load and the truck driver up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also referred to as riders, walkies and walkie riders. These units are appropriately named due to the fact that the operator is not required to sit in the equipment in order to operate it. Instead, the driver walks along the side of the truck as it moves the cargo.
Swing Mast Trucks: Swing Mast Trucks are similar in appearance to typical models of trucks. These are vehicles with a narrow aisle and have masts that can swing up to 90 degrees, only in one direction.
Turret Trucks: The turret truck has been designed to operate in very narrow aisles. Like an Order Selector, they could lift the operator as well as the cargo. Moreover, these kinds of trucks could swing their forks 90 degree on each side.
Go to your local forklift dealership to see all of these various units and determine what in particular would be suitable for your application. If you want to rent before you buy, this is a good option for you so you could check out different models prior to making such a big purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask your forklift dealer and be really honest regarding what the company's requirements are when you are discussing the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
These days, there is such a wide array of forklift models available, that it does not matter where you are, you would be able to find the right lift truck for your company.