Got heavy loads to move at your construction site or warehouse? Fortunately, forklifts can get the job done and spare your back in the process.

With a weight of 9,000 pounds on average and a lifting capacity of 1.5-2 times the weight, a forklift is an indispensable helping hand to have at every job site.

The question is, which types of forklifts are the best options for your needs? Here’s a rundown on several forklift options to choose from.

Let’s dig in!

Common Types of Forklifts Include Warehouse Forklifts

Warehouse forklifts are among the most commonly used types of these machines. They look like golf carts with two forks that extend in the front.

These machines are often used in facilities with large inventories. That’s because they are great for unloading and loading pallets. They are also good for transporting goods from and to delivery vehicles.

It’s best to use this type of forklift to raise and transport items that weigh a few tons over a short distance in a warehouse.

Warehouse forklifts feature a handful of subtypes, including side loaders as well as counterbalance forklifts.

Side Loaders

One of the most common types of forklifts is the side loader. These forklifts are typically found at manufacturing facilities and steel service centers that have to move bulky and heavy items.

With these forklifts, the operators stand in sideways compartments while the side loaders unload objects. Because of the forklift’s sideway operation, it will have no problem driving up alongside your racks and loading or unloading. It won’t have to turn.

This feature makes side loaders perfect for handling lengthy loads like pipes and timber. This machine is also handy for navigating a narrow aisle.

Counterbalance Forklifts

These forklifts contain forks on the front as well as weights on the bank. The back weight on this type of forklift is useful for counterbalancing your load’s weight.

Because these machines don’t have extending arms, they can easily move directly toward loads. They are also handy for situations where you need to do circle maneuvering. 

Telescopic Forklifts

Finally, these types of forklifts, also called reach forklifts, are a mixture of cranes and forklifts with booms and extendable arms.

The arms feature twin forks that are used for removing pallets and other loads from the ground and lifting them to a higher elevation. These forks also make it easy to reach into odd-angle areas and tight spaces.

Due to these forklifts’ increasing popularity, forklift manufacturers like Genie produce various quality telescopic forklifts.

 

How We Can Help

Whether you’re considering buying or renting side loaders, telescopic forklifts, or warehouse forklifts, the right machines can help you to operate safely and efficiently at your job site.

Fortunately, at Superior Industrial Products, we offer many types of forklifts for rent and sale. Our machines come from leading forklift brands, ranging from Columbia to Noblelift, and they are also available in various sizes to suit your needs. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our forklifts and how can they add value to your work environment today!