Forklift trucks – electric, combustion engine, LPG. Selection, parameters, accessories

Why buy a forklift truck from PALETEO

How to choose a forklift truck – quick checklist

1. Lifting capacity and centre of gravity: load [kg] × centre of gravity (usually 500 mm).
2. Lifting height: highest shelf + reserve (Duplex/Triplex mast, free lift).
3. Working environment: indoors/outdoors, dust, humidity, temperature (cold store).
4. Drive: electric (quiet, zero emissions), LPG (versatility), diesel (outdoors, heavier conditions).
5. Tyres: super-elastic, pneumatic, non-marking for HACCP/IFS.
6. Attachments: side shift, fork positioner, extensions, clamps, rotators, buckets.
7. Working aisles: turning radius, aisle width (WA) for EUR pallet loads.
8. Battery and charging (electric): lead-acid vs Li-ion (fast charging, no electrolyte service).
9. Safety: ROPS/FOPS, cameras, Blue/Red Spot, acoustic/light signalling.
10. TCO: fuel/energy consumption, service, tyres, battery life.

Types of trucks – what to choose

Electric truck (3- and 4-wheel)

• Application: indoors, hygienic areas, order picking.
• Pros: low noise emission, no exhaust fumes, lowest TCO in multi-shift operation (Li-ion + opportunity charging).
• What to look for: battery capacity, charging time, IP rating of components in humid conditions.

LPG forklift

• Application: indoor/outdoor, versatile.
• Pros: fast refuelling, stable performance.
• What to look for: hall ventilation, filters, compliance with health and safety requirements.

Diesel forklift

• Application: storage yards, heavier conditions, long distances.
• Pros: high torque, resistance to dust/mud.
• What to look for: outdoor use, filter service and emissions.

Mast and attachments – the key to efficiency

• Masts: Simplex (1-section), Duplex (2-section), Triplex (3-section, high heights). Look for free lift for working in low gates/trucks.
• Standard attachments: side shift, fork positioner, extensions.
• Specialised attachments: barrel/roll clamps, turntables, clamps, weighing forks.
• Lighting and visibility: LED, Blue/Red Spot, mirrors, reversing camera – improve pedestrian safety.

Tyres and ground

• Super-elastic (SE) – puncture-resistant, great for industrial floors.
• Pneumatic – better comfort on uneven surfaces, outdoor work.
• Non-marking – for clean areas (food/pharmaceuticals), leaves no marks.

Compatibility with PALETEO pallets and equipment

• Plastic pallets 1200×800 / 1200×1000 (open/closed, skids/feet) – stable transport and repeatable dimensions.
• E2 containers and pallet boxes – compatible with forks and conveyors.
• Drip trays – safe handling of liquids (drain, retention).

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)