In several forklift companies, the operators are usually on the trucks 7 out of 8 hours per day. They are always loading and unloading trucks all day long. Lots of of these operators do not have to consult with supervisors very often, nor do they have to deal with paperwork. Sometimes they are doing the same task during the shift for the duration and they don't even need to move the forks to adapt to different loads. These operators usually find the counterbalanced sit-down units of forklifts much more efficient and comfortable.
Maneuvering space depending on the location, some facilities have a lot of room wherein forklifts and machinery can work in. In these circumstances, an engine powered or 4-wheel electric lift truck remains a major player within the warehousing fleet.
On the other hand, other facilities are packed to capacity. These facilities could have shipping departments and staging areas that offer limited room for lift truck maneuverability. In this particular situation, a 3-wheel electric or stand-up end control forklift model might seem to be a better option.
Depending on your particular application and environment you are working in, you could then determine how to choose the correct truck and select the correct tire. Next is a short profile to show you the different kinds of tires available.
Cushion Tire Trucks - The cushion tire has been specifically engineered for use on both asphalt or concrete surfaces. More commonly, they are specified for indoor application in manufacturing facilities, distribution centres and warehouses. Usually cushion tire forklifts are smaller compared to similar capacity pneumatic models; thus, they are commonly less expensive. This makes their resale value a lot lower as well.
Pneumatic Tire Trucks - Pneumatic tire trucks can go indoors as well as out on improved surfaces. These surfaces consist of hard-packed dirt or stones and blacktop. Rough terrain areas such as severely plowed fields or potholed lots are not ideal. The trucks are equipped with a larger frame. Typically, pneumatic tire trucks are more expensive compared to cushion tire units. With regards to resale, generally the pneumatic models offer higher value. This is in part because of the huge amount of maneuvering space they provide and their overall surface versatility.