The market for forklifts is worth over $49.6 billion. They’re essential in most industrial operations.

Forklift sizes range from small and maneuverable to large and powerful. Knowing the differences helps you choose the best one. 

Read our guide to forklift sizes to learn what your options are and how.

Forklift Sizes

Forklifts are also known as powered industrial trucks. They lift and move materials in warehouses, construction sites, and more. They’re run by a riding operator or from the outside.

There are several types of forklifts to choose from, and our forklift size guide will cover the specifications of each.

Aerial lifts are designed for use by a single operator. They have the highest lift height of all forklift sizes.

Electric Motor Rider trucks are used by riding operators to load trucks and move pallets. 

Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks weigh 2,000-5,000lb. They’re small and maneuverable, making them best for stock pickers and small spaces. 

Electric Motor Trucks are easy to operate and affordable. They’re useful in small retail spaces but have a low lift height and should only be used to move loads that have already been lowered by larger forklifts.

Internal Combustion Engine Trucks are larger, heavier sit-down lifts that carry heavier loads. They can traverse rough environments full of ground hazards, especially when fitted with puncture-resistant pneumatic tires.

Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors are also known as tuggers. They run on electricity or gas and pull rather than lift loads. 

Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks are heavy-duty machines powered by diesel fuel. They can drive over rough, dirty services and carry large, heavy loads.

How to Decide Which Forklift Size Is Best For Me

There are several factors to consider when deciding which forklift size is best for your needs. 

Renting is an affordable option, but you should always know how long you need the vehicle before you make this choice. If you’ll be using it every day, purchasing may be a better option.

A forklift should be able to reach any load and get into any corner you need it to. This is why you must consider lift height and turning radius.

Larger forklift sizes carry more weight but are more difficult for them to navigate through cramped spaces. Consider how heavy it should be and what types of loads it will carry.

Before purchasing any vehicle, you need to consider what type of terrain it will traverse. You may need a sturdy Class VII forklift if you’re working on a construction site or a warehouse with rough floors.

When buying or renting forklifts, you must pay for the vehicle itself, batteries and chargers, any special attachments you add, and transportation costs for delivery. Budget for these factors ahead of time.

Where to Find the Right Forklift

Choosing the right forklift sizes can be difficult because of the wide range of options. The industry offers everything from aerial lifts to large Rough Terrain trucks. 

Be sure that the forklift you choose fits your budget and can handle the loads you need it to carry. Remember to find the right place to rent or purchase them from as well.

We here at SIP or Superior Industrial Products strive to live up to our name. Rent a forklift from us today.