For businesses which lift and transport heavy supplies and goods on a regular basis, there is probably no more valuable or effective equipment as the forklift. Forklifts are a common site in distribution depots, lumber yards, manufacturing plants, dockyards, warehouses and shipping and receiving, agriculture and other work places which need to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
The forklift is used most often to keep the flow of operations working as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Though forklifts are a huge investment, the amount of man hours they can save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting could make the purchase pay for itself eventually.
There are many different models and manufacturers of forklifts available on the market. Various models are made to accomplish different tasks. So as to make sure that you don't buy more than you require or the wrong type of equipment, it is very vital to assess the requirements of your business and compare to the different units on the market. Speaking with a qualified forklift distributor is a very good idea and so is doing your own research online.
When looking at lift trucks by fuel type, the following kinds are available:
Electric: The electric forklift is run by lead-acid based rechargeable batteries. These heavy and large batteries could run a machinery for more than 5 or 6 straight hours. Electric models are ideal for indoor applications due to their lack of emissions. They are a popular option for warehouses and retail spaces since they provide a relatively low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where people are working.
Internal Combustion: Internal combustion lift trucks work with a range of fuels. Some models take compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, LP or liquid propane or gasoline. In comparison to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC models can carry heavier loads, accelerate faster and are easier to refuel. These models are usually more expensive to operate than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: The latest in lift truck technology is the Hydrogen fuel cell. These units offer the zero emissions and quietness of electric forklifts but provide the fast refueling capability of an IC unit.
Nissan's outdoor units would offer synchronized steering. This feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically after the completion of a turn. Equipped with solid pneumatic tires to provide a comfortable ride both indoors and outdoors, these tires are more resistant to both wear and damage.