A forklift is a French term for a type of crane used to lift and move heavy objects. Forklift cranes are commonly used in the construction and industrial sectors because they are capable of lifting and moving large loads safely.
A forklift generally consists of a boom (which is the arm that extends from the crane), a base or a frame. The crane operator controls the movement of the boom using a series of a box most often. These machines are very versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, such as lifting materials to high ceilings or moving heavy equipment around a job site.
Forklifts are essential equipment in many industries, and their use can help increase productivity and safety.
What are the different types of forklifts?
- The electric cart : This is the most common type of forklift. It uses a battery to power the motor, making it very efficient and environmentally friendly.
- The diesel cart : uses a diesel engine to power the hydraulic system. They are very powerful and can lift heavy loads, making them ideal for construction and industrial applications.
- The LPG forklift : uses liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to power the engine. They are less expensive to operate than electric forklifts.
- The pallet truck : is a type of forklift that is used to move pallets, or large wooden platforms, in a warehouse.
- The order picker : it is used to prepare orders in a warehouse, very common in the e-commerce sector. It has a platform on which the operator stands and a series of work tools, such as a computer, to help them accomplish their task.
- The all-terrain cart : is a type of forklift designed for use on rough terrain. They are equipped with large tires and a powerful motor that helps them overcome obstacles.
- The tractor trolley : is a type of forklift that is used to tow trailers. They are very powerful and can carry heavy loads.
- The shopping cart : is a type of forklift used to move materials and products in a warehouse.
- The gas cart : equipped with a gas engine to power the hydraulic system. They are very powerful and can lift heavy loads, making them ideal for construction and industrial applications.
- The telescopic trolley : employed to move materials and products in a warehouse. It has an extendable arm that can reach high shelves.
- The side cart : used to move materials and products within a given area. It features a side-loading platform that allows the operator to load and unload items from the side of the forklift.
- The reach truck : it has a long extendable arm that allows you to reach high shelves.
- Articulated forklift : as its name suggests, it has an articulated chassis which gives it a very tight turning radius.
How to choose the ideal forklift for your business?
When you need a forklift for your business, it is important to choose the right model. You must take into account:
- the height and weight of the object you wish to lift
- of the necessary range.
- of the place of current use thereof
It’s also important to consider whether you’ll need a fixed forklift or a rotating forklift: the former are generally more suitable for indoor environments, while rotating fork models are more versatile and can be used outdoors.
Finally, although it seems obvious, it is important to choose a forklift that matches the size and configuration of your warehouse or factory.
How to use a forklift?
The driver of a forklift must be organized, meticulous and competent in order to safely carry out operations with his device. Maintaining these carts is also part of his privileges, so that he can keep them in perfect working order throughout the day, while respecting safety rules and deadlines. Also called a forklift operator, the driver’s mission is to load and unload goods or other loads, as well as to store or supply them.
To ensure the safety of everyone involved in a project, forklift operators must first obtain their license and then complete specific training. Since each site’s standards are different, an examination by medical professionals is also necessary for these workers!
What are the main forklift brands?
- Konecranes (Finland)
- Still (Germany)
- Caterpillar (USA)
- Toyota (Japan)
- Linde (Germany)
- Fenwick-Linde (France)
- Jungheinrich (Germany)
- Hyster (USA)
- Yale (USA)
- Crown (USA)
- Manitou (France)
- Doosan (Korea)