The basic structure of the categorization of lift trucks consists of the following:
Standard Trucks: The standard lift truck is a rugged and strong model and the most frequently used lift trucks inside warehouses. Standard trucks can typically carry weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades could carry loads up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: Reach Trucks are a different name for narrow-aisle lift trucks. Generally, these machines run on electricity. These kinds of machinery are specifically made for pallet storage. They could carry loads up to 40 feet in height. If you want unloading and lifting weights over long distances and quickly, than a reach truck would not be the right alternative for your requirements.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle lift trucks or order selectors can be used to move racked loads which are much smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are different in that they are capable of lifting both the truck driver and the cargo as high as 40 feet.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: The motorized pallet truck has been referred to by numerous names such as: riders, walkies and walkie riders. These models are appropriately named because of the fact that the operator is not required to sit in the machine to be able to operate it. Instead, he walks along the side of the truck as it transports the load.
Swing Mast Trucks: Swing Mast Trucks are similar in appearance to standard models of trucks. These are vehicles with a narrow aisle and have masts that can swing up to 90 degrees, just in one direction.
Turret Trucks: Turret Trucks are also designed with a very narrow aisle. Like an Order Selector, they can lift the driver and the load. Additionally, these trucks are capable of swinging their forks 90 degree on each side.
To determine what unit in particular will best suit your businesses requirements, visit a local dealer to check out all the different units. If you want to lease before you purchase, this is a really great alternative for you so you could try out various units before making such a huge purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask your forklift dealer and be truthful regarding what the company's requirements are when you are discussing the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
These days, there is such a huge array of lift truck units available, that it does not matter where you are, you would be able to find the best forklift for your company.