What is a Forklift?

A forklift is an industrial truck used for lifting and moving materials. It is usually used to move materials over a short distance. This very useful machine was developed in the 20th century by various companies including Clark. Forklift is also called lift truck, fork truck, forklift truck or fork hoist. The companies that developed forklift made transmissions and Yale & Towne manufacturing made the hoists. The use of these trucks hastened post World War II. They have since then been used to perform various tasks in the 21st century. The company manufacturing forklifts made a huge sale. In 2013, they posted an increase in the sale of up to $30.4 million from sales of up to 944,405 machines. These machines are rated for loads up to a maximum set weight and to a certain center of gravity. The manufacturers ensure that they have specified all the requirements to their customers. They highlight all the weight specifications and the specific COG to ensure that the buyer is able to make an informed decision according to their tasks. They post all the information on a nameplate that is provided. In many jurisdictions, it is illegal to remove or even tamper with the nameplate.

Different types of forklifts and their specific use

There are various types of forklifts available in the market and their specified usage. Each of them is used for different tasks and different projects. What this means is that buyers should, first of all, determine their tasks before embarking on buying any of the different forklifts. You can also take them on rent from forklift rental at very cheap rates.

Counterbalance forklifts

These forklifts are used in virtually all material handling capacities. They feature dual forks for heavy loads and bulky items. Counterbalance forklifts are very common in airports and even in automobile manufacturing companies.

Reach Trucks

These forklifts are commonly known by what they are named after. They are mainly found in many warehousing conditions with high rise stowage pallet racking. These lifts usually come in multiple forms. Some of the forms include Stand-up trucks and double-Deep truck. However, stand-up trucks are the most common in the market.

Three-wheel Counterbalance forklift

They feature three wheels. This is what differentiates them from counterbalance forklifts. They are commonly used for narrow aisles. The main reason for this is because they have enhanced maneuverability for close-fitting space.

Pump trucks

These forklifts are primarily used as a pallet jack. However, they do not use any electric power to lift materials. Other common types of forklifts include Powered pallet trucks which are a modernized version of pump truck, side loaders and Teletrucks.