If you’ve ever tried moving a mountain of boxes (or what feels like one) with just manpower, you already know the value of a forklift.
These machines are the real MVPs of warehouses, construction sites, factories, and even ports. But here’s the catch: not all forklifts are created equal.
Some are nimble little acrobats designed to zip through narrow aisles indoors, while others are brute powerlifters built to conquer mud, gravel, and heavy loads outdoors.
Think of forklifts like shoes—what works perfectly for the gym won’t exactly cut it on a hiking trail.
The right forklift can save you time, money, and a lot of unnecessary backaches, while the wrong one? Well, let’s just say it might turn your “smooth operations” into a comedy of errors.
In this guide, we’ll break down 20 different types of forklifts, each with its own personality, strengths, and quirks.
Types of Forklifts for Indoor and Outdoor Work
Whether you’re handling delicate pallets inside a climate-controlled facility or moving giant containers under the blazing sun, there’s a forklift tailored for the job—and we’re here to help you find it.
Here are different types of forklifts, uses and some popular brands:
1. Warehouse Forklifts
One of the most popular types of forklifts is the warehouse forklift. These units are designed specifically for use in warehouses and other similar environments.
They are typically powered by either electricity or combustion and can be found in both sit-down and stand-up models.
Warehouse forklifts provide a number of advantages over other types of forklifts, including their ability to work in confined spaces and their relatively low cost of ownership.
2. Order Picker Forklifts
Order picker forklifts are a type of warehouse forklift that is specifically designed for order picking applications.
These units have a lifting platform that the operator stands on, and a set of forks that extend out in front of the unit.
Order picker forklifts are used to move individual items or small quantities of product from one location to another. They are typically powered by electricity.
Order picker forklifts provide a number of advantages over traditional warehouse forklifts, including the ability to pick orders from all four sides of the unit.
3. Reach Truck Forklifts
Reach truck forklifts are a type of warehouse forklift that is specifically designed for reaching high shelves and racks.
These units have a telescoping boom that extends out in front of the unit, and a set of forks that can be used to move product from one location to another.
4. Tow Tractor
Tow tractor forklifts are industrial forklift that is specifically designed for towing trailers and other types of vehicles.
These units have a towing hitch that is used to attach trailers.
5. Container Handler
Container handler forklifts are specifically designed for handling containers.
These units have a set of forks that can be used to move containers from one location to another and can also be used to stack containers on top of each other.
Container handler forklifts are typically powered by diesel.
6. Counterbalanced Forklifts
Counterbalanced forklifts are designed to lift and move heavy loads.
These units have a set of forks that extend out in front of the unit and a counterweight that is located at the rear of the unit.
Counterbalanced forklifts are typically powered by either electricity or diesel, and can be found in both sit-down and stand-up models.
7. Telehandler
Telehandler forklifts are a type of industrial forklift that is specifically designed for handling materials at height.
These units have a set of forks that can be used to move materials from one location to another.
8. Piggyback Forklift
Piggyback forklifts are a type of forklift that is specifically designed for moving trailers and other types of vehicles.
These units have a set of wheels that are located at the rear of the unit. Piggyback forklifts are also powered by diesel.
9. Turret Trucks
Turret trucks are designed for moving products around warehouses and other storage facilities.
These units have a turret that rotates 360 degrees, and a set of forks that can be used to move product from one location to another.
Turret trucks are powered by electricity.
10. Articulating Forklifts
Articulating forklifts—often called swing mast forklifts—are compact, electric-powered machines built for warehouses where every inch of space counts.
Unlike standard forklifts, their mast can pivot independently from the truck’s body, allowing operators to grab pallets in tight aisles without turning the whole vehicle.
This clever design makes them perfect for high-density storage, vertical stacking, and navigating straight paths while still reaching loads tucked into narrow spaces.
11. Battery Operated Forklifts
Battery-operated forklifts are specifically designed for use in environments where there is no access to a power source.
Battery-operated forklifts are powered by batteries and can be found in both sit-down and stand-up models.
12. Tugger train
Tugger train forklifts are specialized machines designed not for lifting heavy pallets, but for pulling or “tugging” a connected line of carts—often called a tugger train.
Instead of forks, they feature a hitching system that lets them link multiple carts together, making them ideal for moving large volumes of materials across a facility in one trip.
You’ll often see them in automotive plants, large warehouses, or assembly lines where efficiency and continuous material flow are critical.
Their key advantage is reducing the number of trips and operators needed, streamlining workflow while saving time and labor costs.
13. Walkie Stacker
Walkie stacker forklifts are compact, pedestrian-operated machines built for stacking and organizing materials, especially in tight warehouse spaces.
Unlike traditional forklifts, they don’t rely on a seated operator; instead, they’re controlled by walking behind or alongside the unit using a handle.
While they don’t have the heavy lifting capacity of larger forklifts, they excel at moving pallets vertically and reaching shelving units where standard pallet jacks fall short.
These stackers come in different configurations, including manual walk-behind models, stand-up versions for longer shifts, and sit-down models for added comfort and efficiency.
They’re best suited for warehouses, retail backrooms, and small storage areas where space is limited but vertical stacking is essential.
14. Diesel Forklifts
Diesel forklifts are one of the most popular types of forklifts on the market.
Diesel-powered lift trucks offer a number of advantages over their gasoline-powered counterparts, including more power, better fuel economy, and lower emissions.
Diesel forklifts also tend to be more durable and require less maintenance than other types of forklifts.
As a result, diesel forklifts are a good choice for many industrial and commercial applications.
15. Gasoline Forklifts
Gasoline-powered forklifts are a popular choice for many businesses, thanks to their versatility and reliability.
Gasoline forklifts can be used indoors or outdoors, and they can operate in a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions.
Gasoline forklifts also tend to be more powerful than other types of forklifts, making them well-suited for businesses that need to move heavy loads.
In addition, gasoline forklifts require less maintenance than other types of forklifts, which can save your business time and money.
Whether you’re looking for a versatile indoor/outdoor forklift or a powerful machine for moving heavy loads, a gasoline forklift may be the perfect choice for your business.
16. LPG Forklifts
LPG-powered forklifts have a number of advantages over their gasoline and diesel counterparts.
They are more environmentally friendly, as they produce fewer emissions. They are also more efficient, as they use less fuel per hour of operation.
In addition, LPG-powered forklifts tend to be more reliable and require less maintenance than other types of forklifts.
As a result, they can be a great choice for businesses that want to save money and reduce their environmental impact.
17. Crawler Forklifts
Crawler forklifts are specially designed to move heavy loads across rough or uneven terrain.
The tracks on these forklifts provide superior traction, allowing them to carry loads of up to several tons.
In addition, the tracks help to distribute the weight of the load evenly, which prevents the forklift from sinking into soft soil or becoming stuck in the mud.
Crawler forklifts also have a low center of gravity, which increases stability and makes it easier to maneuver around obstacles.
These features make crawler forklifts an ideal choice for construction sites, landscaping projects, and other applications where traditional forklifts would struggle.
18. Pedestrian Stackers
A pedestrian stacker is a type of lifting equipment that is used to move heavy loads around a warehouse or factory floor.
Unlike a forklift, which is driven by an operator, a pedestrian stacker is battery-powered and can be operated by anyone.
Pedestrian stackers are available in a range of sizes and capacities, so they can be used to move everything from small boxes to large pallets.
One of the main benefits of using a pedestrian stacker is that it can help to improve productivity levels in a warehouse or factory.
In addition, using a pedestrian stacker can help to reduce the risk of injuries in the workplace.
By minimizing the amount of manual handling that takes place, there is less chance of workers sustaining strains or sprains.
As well as being used in warehouses and factories, pedestrian stackers are also commonly found in hospitals and other healthcare settings.
19. Straddle Carriers
A straddle carrier is a vehicle used for transporting containers in port areas, rail yards, and container terminals.
Straddle carriers are similar in appearance to a large forklift, but with two sets of forks that straddle the container from above.
This allows the straddle carrier to pick up and transport a container without having to lift it off the ground.
Straddle carriers are very efficient and can typically move a container from one point to another much faster than a crane or other type of vehicle.
As a result, they are an essential part of the operations of any busy port.
20. Platform Lift Trucks
A platform lift truck is a type of forklift that is used to move heavy loads between different levels.
The platform of the truck is raised or lowered by a hydraulic system, and the forks can be extended or retracted to load or unload the platform.
Platform lift trucks are very versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, such as construction, warehousing, and manufacturing.
They are also relatively easy to operate, making them a popular choice for many businesses.
However, platform lift trucks can be dangerous if not used properly, so it is important to always follow safety instructions when operating one of these vehicles.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Forklifts: What’s the Real Difference?
At first glance, a forklift is a forklift—big forks in front, heavy lifting at the back. But the environment where it’s used makes a world of difference.
Indoor forklifts are typically smaller, more compact, and designed to maneuver through narrow aisles with precision.
They often run on electric power, which means no fumes, less noise, and cleaner operation—perfect for warehouses, retail storage, or food facilities where space and air quality matter.
Outdoor forklifts, on the other hand, are the rough-and-tough cousins.
They’re usually powered by diesel or LPG, built with bigger tires, higher ground clearance, and the muscle to handle uneven terrain, heavy loads, and harsh weather.
These machines thrive on construction sites, lumber yards, and shipping docks where raw power and durability outweigh finesse.
In short, think of indoor forklifts as agile city cars and outdoor ones as rugged 4x4s—both great, but only in the right setting.
How to Choose the Right Forklift for Your Job (Cost Considerations)
Choosing the right forklift isn’t just about matching the machine to the workload—it’s also about balancing performance with cost.
After all, forklifts are investments, and how you acquire and maintain one can make or break your bottom line.
Buy, Rent, or Lease?
If you need forklifts daily for heavy-duty work, buying makes the most sense—it’s a long-term asset.
But if your needs are seasonal or project-based, renting offers flexibility without the long-term burden.
Leasing sits in the middle ground: you get access to newer models without the upfront purchase cost, though it adds ongoing monthly expenses.
Future-Proofing: Electric, Automation, and Beyond
The forklift world is evolving fast. Electric models are becoming the go-to for companies that want lower fuel costs, cleaner operations, and compliance with sustainability goals.
On the horizon, automation and AI-driven forklifts promise even greater efficiency—think driverless machines zipping around your warehouse.
When choosing, it’s worth asking: do you want a machine that meets today’s needs or one that also positions you for tomorrow?
Maintenance Matters
No matter how you acquire your forklift, upkeep is non-negotiable.
Regular inspections, battery care (for electric units), and timely servicing keep your forklift safe and extend its working life.
Skimping on maintenance might save you a quick buck, but breakdowns and downtime can cost far more in the long run.
Final Thoughts: Lifting Smarter, Not Harder
At the end of the day, a forklift isn’t just a piece of equipment—it’s a partner in your workflow.
The right choice can boost productivity, cut costs, and keep your team safe, while the wrong one can create more headaches than help.
Whether you’re working indoors in tight warehouse aisles or outdoors on rugged terrain, it pays to match the machine to the job.
Think long-term: consider not just the price tag, but also fuel type, maintenance, and how well the forklift will adapt to your growing needs.
The smartest operators aren’t the ones lifting the heaviest loads—they’re the ones who plan ahead, invest wisely, and let the right tools do the heavy lifting for them.
So, lift smarter, not harder—your business (and your back) will thank you.