Different types of forklifts and their applications
Which forklift types exist and how are they used in practice? Learn how counterbalance trucks, reach trucks and telehandlers differ in function and application.
Forklifts come in many shapes and configurations, built to match different tasks and working conditions. Each type has its own strengths, from quiet electric trucks for indoor work and compact pallet trucks to versatile telehandlers. Across logistics, construction, retail and industry, these machines keep operations moving by handling loading, unloading, moving and transporting goods.
But what truly sets the different types apart? And which machines are typically considered part of the broader forklift category? Below is an overview of the main forklift types, grouped by function, key features and where they perform best.
What forklift types are available on the market?
The term forklift is a broad one, covering a wide range of vehicles designed to lift and move loads. There are many different forklift types, each with its own characteristics, advantages and typical use cases. Some machines are built to move efficiently through narrow aisles and reach high racking, while others are designed to perform on rough terrain or handle heavy loads with ease.
To keep things clear, the sections below outline the most common forklift types in use today, ranging from well established classics to specialist trucks developed specifically for warehouse environments.
An overview of the different forklift types
Counterbalance forklift
The counterbalance forklift is the classic all round solution and remains one of the most widely used truck types. A heavy weight at the rear offsets the load at the front, allowing the machine to lift heavy goods in a stable and controlled way.
Typical use: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor operations
Power options: Available with diesel, LPG or electric drive
Lifting capacity: Roughly from 1 tonne up to 16 tonnes or more
Key strengths: Versatile, robust and capable of handling demanding tasks
Reach truck
Reach trucks are purpose built for warehouse environments with narrow aisles and high racking. Instead of moving the entire truck forward, the mast extends to pick up and place pallets, allowing for efficient handling in tight spaces.
Typical use: Designed exclusively for indoor warehouse operations
Power options: Electric drive only
Lift height: Up to approximately 13 metres
Key strengths: Compact design, high stability and efficient use of space
Order picker
Order pickers are designed to speed up picking operations. Depending on the model, the operator platform rises with the load, allowing staff to pick items directly from racking at different heights.
Typical use: Warehouses and distribution centres
Power options: Electric drive
Main types: Low level, mid level and high level order pickers
Key strengths: Fast picking, ergonomic working position and high efficiency
Pallet truck
Pallet trucks, often called pallet jacks, are built for moving pallets over short distances. They come as manual models and electric versions, typically with a drive motor and a lift motor.
Typical use: Warehouses, retail environments and loading docks
Power options: Manual or electric
Load capacity: Approximately 1 to 2.5 tonnes
Key strengths: Compact, easy to use and low entry cost
Pallet stacker
A pallet stacker is a compact truck with a mast, used for lifting and stacking pallets. Thanks to their small footprint, stackers are well suited to smaller spaces and narrow aisles.
Typical use: Warehouses and logistics hubs
Power options: Electric or manual
Lift height: Up to around 5 metres
Key strengths: Cost effective, space saving and user friendly
Telehandler
A telehandler, also known as a telescopic handler, combines forklift style lifting with crane like reach. The extendable boom provides extra range and can be fitted with a range of attachments, including forks, buckets, lifting hooks or clamps.
Typical use: Construction, ports, agriculture and industrial sites
Power options: Diesel and electric variants
Lifting capacity: Approximately 2.5 to 25 tonnes
Key strengths: Long reach, highly versatile and capable on rough terrain
VNA truck
VNA trucks are built for very narrow aisles and high lift work. Many models feature a rising operator cabin, allowing precise handling at height and enabling maximum use of warehouse storage space.
Typical use: Warehouses and logistics centres
Power options: Electric, often with guidance systems
Lift height: Up to around 17 metres
Key strengths: High precision and optimal use of storage capacity
Aerial work platform
An aerial work platform, such as a scissor lift, articulated boom lift or telescopic boom lift, is used for safe working at height for maintenance, installation or inspection. Strictly speaking, these machines are not forklifts, but they are often part of the same equipment fleet.
Typical use: Indoor and outdoor, depending on the type
Power options: Electric for indoor use and diesel for outdoor use
Working height: Roughly from 6 up to 40 metres
Key strengths: Stable platforms, multiple configurations and a strong focus on safety
Frequently asked questions about forklift types
What’s the difference between a counterbalance forklift and a reach truck?
A counterbalance forklift uses a rear counterweight and can operate both indoors and outdoors. A reach truck is more compact and purpose built for narrow aisles and high racking in warehouse environments.
Which forklifts are suitable for narrow aisles?
Reach trucks, VNA trucks and pallet stackers are specifically designed to operate efficiently in confined spaces with limited aisle width.
What is a telehandler?
A telehandler, also known as a telescopic handler, features an extendable boom and is commonly used in construction. It allows materials to be lifted and placed at greater heights or over longer distances than a standard forklift.
What’s the difference between a pallet truck and a stacker?
A pallet truck is used mainly for horizontal movement of pallets and can be manual or electric. A stacker adds vertical lifting capability through a mast, making it possible to stack pallets. Stackers are available as pedestrian and ride on models.
Do you need a certificate to operate a forklift?
A formal certificate is not legally required in many cases, but operators must be properly trained and competent. This is outlined in occupational health and safety regulations. In practice, many companies still require certification as part of their internal safety policy.
Explore Lisman Forklifts’ used forklift range
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