
Forklifts are critically vital equipment in various industries because they can safely lift heavy objects which humans cannot. Being powerful vehicles, they help move heavy loads in a warehouse or construction field with ease and efficiency. Due to their characteristics, they are considered indispensable on any job site.
There is a wide range of forklift styles and models which can make it difficult for you to pick one. This article lists different types of forklifts and their uses, which can help you pick the right kind when you need it.
1. Warehouse Forklift
The most recognizable type of lift is the warehouse forklift. It is very similar to a yellow golf cart, with two forks extending from the front. It is highly popular for use in a warehouse and facilities with a large number of items in inventory because it can load and unload pallets. Ideal for transporting balanced materials, warehouse forklifts are used for removing and transporting items from delivery vehicles.
Most warehouse forklifts can lift to 5,000 lbs. of weight, but some heavy-duty models can lift even 25,000 lbs.
2. Side Loader
Side loaders are usually popular in steel service centers and production units of heavy items. This forklift is operated while the operator stands in a sideways compartment, and the side-loader forklift transports objects on its side. Since this equipment operates sideways, it is highly suitable for navigating narrow aisles and handling tricky loads such as timber and pipes because it can easily move alongside racks and work on items without having to turn.
3. Counterbalance Forklift
The counterbalance forklift has lifting forks in the front, and a weight in the rear to balance out the weight of the load lifted by the fork. This kind of forklift does not have extending arms that allow it to move directly to the load. The popular types of counterbalance forklifts include the 3-wheel variant and stand-up lift. A 3-wheel forklift is ideal for situations that require maneuvering in circles, whereas. the stand-up forklift makes it convenient for the operators to move between loads.
4. Telehandler
A telehandler also goes by the name of a telescopic forklift or a reach forklift. With a boom and extendable arm, it combines the characteristics of a crane with the forklift. Twin forks attached to its arm help move pallets off the ground. The normal telehandler can lift to 5,500 lbs of load at a height of 19 ft in the air. Telehandlers are desirable for accessing objects in tight spaces and at odd angles. Some advanced models can lift weights at a height of more than 55 ft.
5. Industrial Forklift
Also known as a large capacity forklift, an industrial forklift combines the features of a warehouse forklift and a telehandler. Compared to warehouse machines, this forklift can lift much heavier payloads and at a much greater height off the ground. A standard industrial forklift can lift 30,000 lbs and more. More heavy-duty machines are needed for specialized jobs only. The industrial forklift can be used in limited situations.
6. Rough Terrain Forklift
The rough terrain forklift is mostly used in outdoor projects on uneven surfaces. Due to their sturdy pneumatic tires, rough-terrain forklifts can move easily on rocky ground. These tires are special in nature as they are oversized and threaded, allowing them to have a good grip and great balance to transport materials safely. This forklift is not suitable for indoor projects. These forklifts can lift weights from 6,000 lbs and 8,000 lbs.
7. Pallet Jack
Also known as pump trucks, these forklifts can perform specialized functions as they cannot lift heavy loads. Their small footprint allowing pallet jackets to fit into the tightest spaces, and lift small loads in tight quarters. Since it does not has the capability to lift heavy loads, these machines come in low power. Because of their specialized functionality, they can be rented at a lower cost.
8. Walkie Stacker
Walkie stackers have an unusual appearance because they perform specialized operations. These forklifts follow the stacker which steers with the help of an attached handle. These forklifts lack power, maneuverability, and speed, just like pallet vehicles. They are ideal for accessing higher places where you need a taller pallet jack.
9. Order Picker
This type of forklift is used to pick and deliver materials from storage. It can reach a height of up to 32 ft, lift operators to warehouse racks and also carry individual units. As they can pick one or two units instead of moving the whole rack, they are ideal for warehouses and storage facilities. They can handle items of different sizes, from a variety of industries.
10. Reach Fork Truck
Mainly used for indoor work, reach forklift can reach into warehouse racks as no other forklift can, because it can extend its arms beyond the compartment. It allows greater visibility for the operator due to its open compartment. Reach forklifts are not suitable for outdoor work because of a variety of factors.
Golden Gate Rack
Regardless of the industry, you deal in, Golden Gate Rack offers a wide range of forklift rental types in Hayward. Instead of renting the wrong kind of equipment, and bearing increased costs, talk to our representative and tell your business needs. We can assist you in deciding the right kind of forklift for your business needs.