What is an electric forklift

The term ‘electric forklift’ can be used to describe any battery-powered electric forklift truck, including hybrid models.

There are a wide range of different types of electric forklifts available on the market, from counterbalance trucks and order pickers, to pallet trucks, reach trucks, and stackers. 

Determining which type(s) of electric forklift to choose will depend on your business’ needs, operation, and application. 

Here’s an overview to help you get started:

Electric Counterbalance Forklifts 

• Designed for most industrial markets, handling a wide variety of loads, pallet movement, unloading lorries and transport, cross-docking, general stillage, and material movements.

• Ideal for all industry sectors, manufacturing, food and drink, automotive, metals, wood, and chemical applications.

Discover how TCM electric counterbalance trucks are transforming warehouse operations .

Electric Order Pickers

• Ideal for working in all warehouse applications, with high intense throughputs, free-roaming, wire or rail guidance.

Electric Pallet Trucks

• Ideal for most applications such as manufacturing, warehouses, and logistics.

•Discover everything you need to know about electric pallet trucks .

Electric Reach Trucks

• Ideal for use in all warehouse and manufacturing environments.

Electric Stackers

• Ideal for moving pallets around a warehouse, even in confined spaces.

• Great for stacking pallets at a range of heights, but versatile enough to perform a range of duties — from heavy industrial to light handling tasks.

Ready to future-proof  your business ahead of 2030, but need help getting started? We’re offering a free health check to help you make an informed decision.

Lithium-ion (Li) batteries: The pollution-free option

There is still much work to be done before lithium-ion batteries become a viable option for the material handling industry based on their steep price point. Despite the cost, they offer several clear benefits:

1. They’re completely maintenance-free

2. They require no filling

3. They’re gas-free

4. They don't pollute the atmosphere

Although lithium-ion batteries have a considerably lower capacity than lead-acid, they can be ‘opportunity charged’—making them the perfect solution for businesses operating 24/7 who can’t afford extended downtime.