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, as they are able to lift and move large loads safely.
A forklift typically consists of a boom (which is the arm that extends from the crane) and a base or frame. The operator of the crane controls the movement of the boom using a series of controls, most often a control box. 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 on 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 Forklift: This is the most common type of forklift. It uses a battery to power the motor, which makes it very efficient and environmentally friendly.
- The diesel cart They use 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 Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is used to power the engine. They are less expensive to operate than electric forklifts.
- The pallet truck A forklift 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 is equipped with a platform on which the operator stands and a series of work tools such as a computer, to help them perform their task.
- The all-terrain cart A forklift is a type of forklift designed to be used on rough terrain. They are equipped with large tires and a powerful motor that helps them overcome obstacles.
- The tractor cart A forklift is a type of forklift that is used to pull trailers. They are very powerful and can carry heavy loads.
- The shopping cart Forklift: is a type of forklift used to move materials and products in a warehouse.
- The gas cart They are 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 cart Used to move materials and products in a warehouse. It has an extendable arm that can reach high shelves.
- The side carriage Forklift: used to move materials and products within a given area. It has a side loading platform that allows the operator to load and unload items from the side of the forklift.
- The retractable mast cart It is equipped with a long extendable arm that allows you to reach high shelves.
- Articulated forklift truck As its name suggests, it has an articulated chassis which gives it a very tight turning radius.
How to choose the right forklift for your business?
When you need a forklift for your business, it is important to choose the right model. You need to consider:
- the height and weight of the object you wish to lift
- of the necessary scope.
- the place where it is currently used
It's also important to determine whether you'll need a fixed or rotating forklift: fixed forklifts are generally more suited to indoor environments, while rotating forklift models are more versatile and can be used outdoors.
Finally, and even though 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 forklift operator must be organized, meticulous and competent in order to safely carry out operations with his machine. The maintenance of these trucks is also part of his privileges, so that he can maintain them in perfect working order throughout the day, while respecting safety rules and deadlines. Also called 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 undergo specific training. Because each site's standards are different, an examination by health professionals is also required 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)
