The forklift is one of the workhorses of modern industry. Warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants, and lumber yards depend on forklifts of many types and sizes to keep their operations running smoothly. Other businesses only need a forklift to unload deliveries for an hour or two a day. Either way, having a forklift that can perform well for your specific needs is important.

Forklifts are named for the L-shaped "forks" typically used to lift shipping pallets, but they can be outfitted with different accessories for picking up spools, drums, or other specific loads. Also called lift trucks, they are available for both indoor and outdoor applications and can carry loads of 3,000 lbs to 30,000 lbs or more. If your usual load is less than 3,000 lbs, a pallet jack or hand truck is probably a more economical choice.

Buying a forklift is a big investment for small businesses, and you need to make sure you get one that can handle your requirements without overspending. This BuyerZone Buyer’s Guide will explain the major choices you have to make and walk you through the questions you should ask before you start shopping. Once you know what you need, we can connect you with qualified forklift vendors in your area.