The different types of forklift explained

Everyone can picture the classic forklifts, with two forks and a small cab for the driver, but not many people realise that there are different types of forklifts – all with their own attributes for particular jobs. If you’ve never worked with forklifts before, you might not know a hand pallet from an industrial reach forklift.

In this short guide we will introduce you to each type of forklift and fill you in on what they’re used for within the industry.

Counterbalance Forklifts

The most common type of forklift which we can all picture is the counterbalance forklift. This truck has the classic two forks and is ideal for lifting and maneuvering heavy loads. It also allows for easy loading and unloading of vehicles as most models can reach a height of 5 metres.

For even easier movement the three wheel counterbalance is perfect, giving operators a much tighter turning circle in tricky areas.

Industrial Reach Forklifts

The name of this forklift gives a lot away. It’s used primarily in warehouses and industrial settings for reaching out at a height. This means the maximum space inside a building can be used safely and items can be easily selected from higher up. The forks will reach out while the operator can view the procedure from the cab – either on a screen or because of a tilting cab. These forklifts are for indoor use only due to their low ground clearance.

Side Loading Forklifts

Side loaders are one of the most limited forklifts in terms of operation. As the name suggests, the load is placed on this forklift to the side of the cab and the driver. They are predominantly used to carry long or wide loads which would be dangerous on a standard forklift, so while this is very useful for some industries, it limits their use elsewhere as they are not the safest choice for other loads.

Pallet Trucks

Pallet trucks are for hand operation and are mainly utilised for moving single pallets around. There are two forks to this machine, with a handle for maneuvering and lifting. The forks slide easily into pallets and the load can then be transported by a single operator. Some of these pallet trucks are powered which makes the lifting and moving far easier, but on most older versions you might see the handle being pumped to lift the load.

Telescopic Handler Trucks

Expensive but versatile, telescopic handler trucks have the traditional forks attached to a mast and boom for ultimate access to loads. Sometimes known as teletrucks, this machinery can be extremely useful but the cost is often prohibitive to companies due to how complex a machine it is.

At Euro 1 Training we have experience in training for the use of all these forklifts. Each forklift is different and therefore requires unique training to ensure operators are acting safely and getting the most of the machinery. To learn more about training for any of these forklifts simply contact us today.