10 Types of Forklifts

Before buying or renting from Northcoast Forklifts, it is important to decide exactly what type of machine you need. There are many different types of forklifts, each of which is ideal for a particular purpose. If you are not careful to rent the right type of forklift for your job, you might find it difficult to do what you need to do. Here is a list of ten different types of forklifts so you can familiarize yourself with the options available to you.

Warehouse Forklift

The standard warehouse forklift is perhaps the most recognizable type. As its name suggests, the warehouse forklift is most often used in large spaces with giant stacks of inventory. The twin forks stick out from the front of a small vehicle, in which the operator sits. They are most often used to remove pallets or boxed goods from stacked storage, but they can also be useful in removing items from a truck or van after receiving a delivery.

Side Loader

A side loader is a special type of warehouse forklift useful in the transportation of large, unwieldy items. As you can imagine, its fork emerges to the side of the vehicle, in which the operator stands. Since they move side to side like a crab and don’t have to turn, they can operate in small, narrow aisles. They are especially useful in dealing with long, thin items like steel rods or timber.

Counterbalance Forklift

Another variant of the warehouse forklift, the counterbalance forklift features a weight in the back to offset the load held by the fork in front. The three-wheel counterbalance forklift is nimble and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for tight spaces with lots of obstacles. Some allow the operator to stand, making it easier to hop in and out.

Industrial Forklift

The industrial forklift is like a heavy-duty version of the classic warehouse forklift. They are capable of lifting massive loads, and can reach higher up than a warehouse forklift. Industrial forklifts are only necessary for specialized work and when dealing with incredibly-heavy goods. They are sometimes referred to as large-capacity forklifts.

Telehandler

The telehandler is essentially a mix between a forklift and a crane. They have large telescopic arms that allow them to reach loads stored high off the ground and can access goods at odd angles. They are ideal for places that lack standard blocked warehouse storage.

Rough Terrain Forklift

As you would expect, the rough terrain forklift has heavy-duty tires that allow it to be used outside. They are necessary for most outdoor jobs, providing better balance than standard forklifts meant for indoor use.

Pallet Jack

The pallet jack is a small machine that lacks the power of a traditional forklift but can operate in tight spaces. They are great for simple jobs with small loads. They are also cheaper than there larger counterparts. They are sometimes referred to as pump trucks.

Walkie Stacker

The walkie stacker is similar to a pallet jack, but capable of reaching higher and lifting slightly heavier loads. Like the pallet jack, the walkie stacker lacks a cabin, with the operator simply walking behind it instead.

Reach Forklift

The reach forklift is popular in warehouses for its ability to reach into racks and extract goods from among the warehouse storage. Operators sit in a cab with open sides, making it easier to see what is going on around them. Their reaching ability makes them preferable to standard forklifts in certain warehouse settings.

Order Picker

The order picker differs from the other machines on this list in that it actually brings the operator up to the goods. This is advantageous in that the operator can then pick the exact items to take down, whereas a normal forklift requires the removal of an entire box or pallet. There is a space beside the operator to place the box on the way down. Order pickers are typically used in warehouses for consumer goods.

Each of these types of forklifts has unique benefits and is perfect under certain circumstances. Now that you have familiarized yourself with them, you can make an informed decision and choose the type of forklift best suited to the task at hand.

Author: 

Lisa Eclesworth is a notable and influential lifestyle writer. She is a mom of two and a successful homemaker. She loves to cook and create beautiful projects with her family. She writes informative and fun articles that her readers love and enjoy. You can directly connect with her on email – [email protected] or visit her website www.lisaeclesworth.com