Forklifts and telehandlers are two types of industrial vehicles that can be used to move and lift heavy loads. While they are similar in many ways, they have different operating capacities and are designed for different purposes. In this blog, we’ll examine how telehandlers and forklifts differ and explain how they’re used in various industries.
What Is A Forklift?
A forklift is a type of industrial vehicle that has two wheels, a driver’s seat, and a powered lifting mechanism for moving loaded pallets. The machine uses two parallel forks to lift and transport goods from one point to another. Forklifts are most commonly used in warehouses and factories where there is heavy lifting and transporting to be done.
While forklifts are generally used for lifting loads, they can also be used to unload trucks or other vehicles. In addition, they can be used as an alternative to more expensive vehicles when it comes to lifting heavy items into place.
What Is A Telehandler?
A telehandler is a type of forklift that is used to lift and move loads in the air. It has a telescopic boom that can be raised or lowered, allowing it to lift loads to 40 feet above ground level. The telehandler’s boom is connected to its body using a vertical cylinder. This allows the operator to raise, lower, and move loads with ease.
The telehandler also has four wheels on which it can move around while carrying its load. The wheels are located at the base of its chassis, making this machine very stable when moving over uneven terrain.
The Main Differences Between The Two
Here are a few examples of the main differences between the two vehicles:
Multiple Arm Attachments
As you can see from above, forklifts and telehandlers are two kinds of lifting equipment that can be used in many industries. Both use electric motors to lift and lower loads, but they differ in how they move them. Forklifts have one or more arms that attach to the load, which means they are able to move the load up and down but not forward and backward.
Telehandlers have booms that can use multiple attachments, such as buckets, shovels, cranes and other tools. As such, the load can be moved in a range of directions, with the base of the telehandler remaining stationary.
Indoor Vs Outdoor Use
Forklifts, which are also called lift trucks, are most commonly found in warehouses and factories to move materials, products and boxes. While they can be used outdoors, they’re most suited for enclosed spaces. Telehandlers, meanwhile, are more suited to moving equipment between sites. Telehandlers are often used in construction projects because they’re easy to transport and don’t require large amounts of space or expensive machinery like cranes do.
Capabilities
Perhaps the biggest difference between telehandlers and forklifts is the types of loads they can handle. Telehandlers are more flexible than forklifts because they work well on slippery and uneven surfaces. They also have more power than forklifts, which makes them ideal for use on construction sites where there are many different types of products being moved around. Forklifts, however, typically have better control than telehandlers because they have more reliable steering systems and improved functionality.
Whatever it is that you’re lifting, you’re bound to find a telehandler or forklift that’s suitable for the job. For more information on forklifts or telehandlers for hire, contact our team at Global Hire & Services today.
