There’s no doubt that the forklift is the workhorse of many job sites and warehouses. But for the forklift to be most effective, it’s important to get the right one. There are many types of forklifts that offer different features, so getting one for your needs means knowing the differences between the different forklift options.

Forklifts have a variety of different options for power sources, from electric, propane, gas, or diesel. They also come with a variety of different types of tire options. In addition to the type of forklift, the power source and tires will impact its effectiveness in certain workplaces.

You want to get the right machine for your needs. Read on to learn more about the different types of forklifts.

Counterbalance Forklift

The counterbalance forklift is likely the traditional forklift that most people imagine when they think about these machines. The counterbalance forklift comes with the weights in the back of the machine which help to offer a counterbalance to the weight they are lifting in the front of the machine.

The forks of the machine are in the front. This type of forklift is used for heavy lifting both inside and out. It comes in a variety of power sources and tire types.

The team at 99 Lifts could help you get just the machine that’s outfitted the way you need it.

Rough Terrain Forklift

A rough terrain forklift is one used in outdoor construction sites where the load is being carried across uneven ground. The key to a rough terrain forklift is the inflatable tires with thicker threads.

This type of tire allows the machine to maintain balance and move across uneven land while carrying the load.

This type of forklift is made for carrying heavy loads and is often powered by gas or diesel. They often have more powerful engines allowing them to move faster across the open rough terrain.

Warehouse Forklift

A warehouse forklift is used in indoor environments. Usually, these machines are electric and have rechargeable batteries. They have special tires that don’t leave marks inside and can move across warehouse floors without sliding.

The warehouse forklift can come in a variety of sizes allowing it to fit down aisles and even make tight turns inside the warehouse.

Side Loader Forklift

A side loader forklift is different from the other types because the forks are on the side of the machine instead of the front. This allows the machine to carry longer items than what you might carry on a pallet.

The side loader is often used to carry lumber, pipes, and wood. It can move up and down an aisle in a lumberyard, for example, pulling wood from stacks to carry to the delivery truck.

Walkie Stacker Forklift

A walkie stacker is different from many other types of forklifts because it allows the operator to walk behind the machine. They have the ability to lift loads higher than a pallet jack forklift.

They can often fit into tighter spaces than a counterbalanced machine.

Know the Types of Forklifts to Get the Machine Best Suited for Your Job

With so many types of forklifts, there’s one for whatever your job needs. The machine will be most effective if you’re careful to get the type that fits the job requirements.

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