What are the different types of forklifts?

If you are looking into getting new forklifts for your business, it’s crucial that you understand the different types of forklifts and how they are used before you make your decision. Depending on the job in question, it may be that you need a number of forklifts for different purposes, or that just one will suffice. To help you decide which is the right forklift for your business, here is our guide to the different types of forklifts and their uses.

Stacker forklifts

These electronically powered forklifts have manoeuvrability and safety at the forefront of their features. These trucks are powered from a standing position and can be used for a whole host of different tasks, including order picking, pallet transportation and loading vehicles. Within the category of stackers, there are a few different variations, including wrap over stackers, powered stackers and electric straddle stackers. Each stacker variant has a slightly different benefit, so be sure to discuss your needs with our experts to find the perfect one for the job.

Counterbalance forklifts

These are the most common type of forklift that springs to mind when you think of a forklift truck: a vehicle with two forks sticking out at the front. They are perfect for the easy lifting and generic manoeuvring of goods. Despite carrying all of the load at the front, the weight of a counterbalance forklift is counterbalanced at the back (hence the name) to prevent the truck from tipping. These forklifts are often compact, allowing you to easily manoeuvre around your warehouse. These electric vehicles are affordable to run and make moving loads quick and easy.

Reach forklift truck

If you need to lift pallets into high spaces, it’s a reach truck that you will require. As the name would suggest, reach forklifts can lift loads to extended heights, which is perfect for storing goods on high shelves. They tend to be smaller and narrower than other forklifts, making them the ideal solution if you have slim aisles or tight spaces.

Order pickers

These nifty forklifts were designed to suit modern, fast-paced distribution businesses. With elevated forks and a driver platform, they move goods to the pallet area swiftly and efficiently. These cost-effective electric vehicles can pick from varying heights, meaning you can reduce your order picking times.

Pallet trucks

There are two types of pallet trucks; hand pallets and powered pallet trucks. Both variants are designed for moving pallets at ground level and lower heights. Hand pallets are the lighter and easier-to-store version of the two. They lift objects using hand-powered hydraulics, making them ideal for moving goods around the warehouse floor. Meanwhile, powered pallet trucks carry out the same function but are motor powered. This makes them the speedier option and more efficient at loading and unloading goods directly to and from lorries.

Why should I choose Doosan forklifts?

When it comes to forklifts, Doosan is an industry leader. With over 100 years of experience under their belt, this brand knows what they’re doing. Every model harnesses the latest technology to the highest specification so that you can continuously rely on its high performance. Thanks to the proven tech and durable build, you can rest assured that you will have a forklift with reduced running costs and minimal maintenance.

Doosan is so confident in their machinery that every single forklift comes with a three-year warranty as standard, covering you for both parts and labour. This gives you peace of mind that you are investing in quality machinery that is built to last.

As well as being committed to the very best trucks, Doosan is also passionate about the environment. That’s why all of their forklifts are designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible. In fact, their range of LPV forklift trucks have among the lowest emissions of any currently available on the market.

If you are looking for Doosan forklifts to purchase or hire in Essex or the surrounding areas, look no further than Fork Truck Direct. An award-winning forklift hire company. With us, you get access to the best well-known brands combined with the friendly guidance and customer care of an independent company.

Thanks to our close partnership with Doosan, we are able to offer the entire range at the very best value for money. If you would like to know more about our offering or how we can help you, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team today.