A rough terrain forklift is designed and engineered for moving things over challenging terrain that a pneumatic tired lift truck would not traverse. The most visible feature on the rough terrain forklift is its oversized, aggressive treaded tires. This tire design allows the equipment to travel bumpy, muddy or soft terrain without getting stuck. There are actually various rough terrain unit forklifts which are 4-wheel drive as well. The rough terrain forklift are under Class 7 lift truck.
The unique nature of the rough terrain forklift and its exceptional quality and versatility has led to widespread popularity throughout North America. These types of machinery have earned a positive reputation and have become the machine of choice, earning a strong following from a range of companies and industries.
By the local market, 4-wheel drive lift trucks are very well accepted. They are popular sights in both the heavy lumber and construction businesses. The less expensive 2-wheel drive machinery target the industrial and lumber markets and are high quality. The 4-wheel drive forklifts are very common to see at any particular local building supply store.
Customers in the recycling industries, agriculture, shipbuilding and sod farming industries utilize multi-purpose forklifts. In both the lumber and mining businesses where space is truly limited and usually a problem, extremely compact lift truck units are utilized.
Rough terrain forklifts were invented over 6 decades ago, when a 2-pronged lift attachment was fitted to a power buggy. The power buggy was a materials handling machinery, around the size of a wheelbarrow. Nowadays, these heavy industrial equipment are popular sights in lumberyards and on construction projects.
These strong, rugged cousins of industrial forklifts continue to become a bigger part of the industry. These types of machinery are have endured a rough economic climate, specially for vehicles which have farming or military use.
On the North American lift truck market, there are about 20 different types of rough terrain forklifts. There are over 1200 models to select from. Furthermore, there is a huge selection of rough terrain telehandlers on the market, with more than 25 different brands. In addition, a range of leading corporations like for instance Manitou and JLG make both types of machine.
These 4-wheel drive machines are suited for the harshest of environments. These machinery handle well in all kinds of weather conditions and are able to carry out the most difficult jobs easily.