Overview of Forklift Types Available on the Market

This is an overview of popular forklift models currently available, categorized by power source and design structure to help you better visualize and advise your customers.

1. Electric Forklifts

a. Counterbalance Electric Forklifts

• Common load capacity: 1 – 5 tons

• Brands: EP, Toyota, Nichiyu

• Suitable for: Indoor factories, flat floors, clean air requirements

• Battery: Lithium or lead-acid

• Pros: Clean air, quiet operation, low operating cost

• Cons: Higher price than diesel, needs charging

b. Reach Trucks

• Load capacity: 1 – 2.5 tons

• Lifting height: Up to 12m

• Suitable for: Narrow aisles, high racking, tight warehouse spaces

• Pros: Flexible, space-saving

• Cons: Not suitable for rough surfaces

c. Electric Pallet Trucks

• Types: Semi-electric (lift by power, manual pull) or full-electric

• Suitable for: Moving pallets in small warehouses

• Load capacity: 1 – 3 tons

• Pros: Affordable, easy to use, labor-saving

• Cons: Cannot lift high (except stacker models)

d. Electric Stackers

• Types: Semi-electric or full-electric

• Lifting height: 1.6 – 3.5m

• Suitable for: Light goods in small warehouses

• Pros: Compact, low investment cost

• Cons: Not suitable for heavy loads or intensive use

2. Internal Combustion (IC) Forklifts

a. Diesel Forklifts

• Load capacity: 2 – 10 tons (up to 25–35 tons in heavy-duty)

• Suitable for: Outdoor use, construction, ports

• Pros: Powerful, heavy-duty, easy maintenance

• Cons: Noisy, emits smoke, high fuel cost

b. Gas/LPG Forklifts

• Load capacity: 2 – 5 tons

• Suitable for: Both indoor and outdoor

• Pros: Lower emissions than diesel, continuous operation

• Cons: Requires gas station, less common in Vietnam

3. Other Specialized Forklifts

a. Rough Terrain Forklifts

• Large tires, high ground clearance, ideal for rough outdoor sites

b. Telescopic Handlers (Telehandlers)

• Uses boom arms to lift loads, common in construction and farming

c. Manlifts

• Used to lift personnel for construction, repair, and maintenance

✅ Summary by Application