Traditional forklifts and telehandler forklifts are two types of heavy machinery equipment widely used in the logistics and construction industries. Each type of forklift meets specific needs based on its design and function, and the two are selected and used according to different requirements.
Traditional forklifts are various wheeled handling vehicles used for loading, unloading, stacking, and short distance transportation of palletized goods, typically driven by internal combustion engines, batteries, or hydraulic systems. The hydraulic pump is driven by the engine and controls the hydraulic cylinder through the hydraulic oil pipeline. The lifting and lowering of the fork arms of a forklift is achieved through the pressure of a hydraulic system. They use hydraulic systems to vertically lift the cargo to a height of 3 to 6 meters.
The fork arms of traditional forklift can only lift up and down, usually at a lower working height; When driving a forklift, the operator can easily lift heavy objects by controlling the forward, backward, steering, lifting and other functions of the forklift through the steering wheel or joystick.
The telescopic handler forklift is a multifunctional loader that completes material loading and unloading work through the cooperation of telescopic arm and forklift mechanism, and can provide long-distance cargo handling and high-altitude operations. The telescopic arm is controlled by a hydraulic system, and the hydraulic cylinder transmits power to the arm frame to achieve extension and contraction, enabling the machine to work in more complex environments and adapt to higher and farther operational requirements.
The core of a rotating telehandler lies in its unique combination fork arm structure. This structure is usually composed of multiple fork arm links, each of which can be independently raised, lowered, and pushed forward. The operator controls the various components of the telescopic forklift through the control stick or hydraulic control valve, accurately handling items at different positions and heights.
Equipped with a telescopic arm and various attachments, it is suitable for a variety of tasks, such as lifting, moving and placing materials.
Small in size, highly maneuverable, ideal for indoor or enclosed spaces, specifically designed for use in limited spaces and light-duty applications.
Specially designed for large construction sites and industrial applications, it can handle heavy loads with reinforced suspension and tires, providing excellent traction and stability.
Also known as rotating telehandlers, these telescopic arms have rotating arms that allow for greater flexibility and range.
This is the most common type of forklift, with heavy objects at the rear to balance the lifted load. The forks are at the front of the vehicle. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications where a small forklift is needed to move materials.
These forklifts are powered by diesel, gasoline, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). More powerful than electric forklifts, they are well suited for outdoor environments and applications that require lifting heavy loads.
These forklifts are similar to off-road telescopic forklifts, and their reinforced suspension and tires give them excellent traction and stability on uneven terrain.
These forklifts have telescopic forks that allow them to reach deeper into shelves and racks. They are ideal for applications where space is limited or high-density storage is required.
These forklifts are designed to lift the operator and the load together, making it easier to pick items from elevated or shelving systems.
The telescopic arm and high lifting capacity allow the telescopic arm to extend farther, allowing the zoom boom to carry materials to higher floors of buildings. Lift heavy objects and transport them to different floors of buildings. Ideal for transporting building materials such as cement, bricks, and steel on construction sites.
The telescopic function of the telescopic arm allows you to easily cross obstacles in farmland and carry materials to high places. It is widely used in the agricultural field, especially in uneven fields, to handle, stack, and unload heavy objects during field work. In forestry, reach telehandlers are often used for tasks such as transporting timber and felling.
In manufacturing production lines and factories, telescopic handler is used to carry heavy materials. In scenarios where the position of goods needs to be precisely controlled, it can also provide precise handling services, making it suitable for places that require high-precision operation and stacking to high places.
In special work scenarios such as high-altitude work, tunnel work, etc., the large telehandler can meet various complex work requirements by equipping it with various attachments and accessories. For example, after installing the high-altitude work platform, it can realize manned high-altitude work.
Traditional forklifts can move large amounts of goods quickly and efficiently, are easy to operate, and operate quietly, making them suitable for high-frequency handling tasks. Therefore, they play an important role in warehouses and logistics centers, where they are used for tasks such as moving goods, stacking items, and transporting materials.
Electric forklifts have a large load capacity and can transport large amounts of materials quickly and efficiently. In the manufacturing industry, traditional forklifts are used for material handling tasks in factories. They help workers move items quickly and ensure smooth production. Forklifts are often used in large retail malls, supermarkets, or distribution centers to transport goods, stack shelves, and replenish inventory. They can complete handling tasks quickly and safely.
reach truck forklift is specially designed for outdoor operation and are suitable for rough, unpaved surfaces. For example, construction sites typically use internal combustion forklifts or off-road forklifts to transport steel materials, precast concrete parts, and large equipment. This ensures stability even on uneven ground.
Telescopic handlers are usually expensive because of their complex structure, high-strength materials, and high-tech equipment such as hydraulic systems and GPS monitoring systems. Telescopic forklift price range from $40,000 to $200,000, depending on the model, lifting capacity, and functions. However, because of their efficient and flexible operating capabilities, even with a higher initial investment, the versatility of the forklifts can replace a variety of machines such as forklifts, cranes, or boom lifts, helping to offset some of the higher costs by reducing the need for other equipment on site. They can perform multiple tasks and operate in complex terrain that traditional forklifts cannot handle.
Traditional forklift price is relatively cheap due to their simple structure and low material costs, especially domestic traditional manual forklifts, which cost around $30,000 to 50,000. Manual or basic electric forklifts are even cheaper, costing around $10,000. They have low purchase, fuel/charging, and maintenance costs. However, they are mainly designed for flat surfaces and are not as flexible as telehandlers in terms of lifting height and material handling capabilities. Although the purchase cost is low, complex or special operating environments may require more manpower and time to complete the task, increasing the cost of labor and time.
Driving a forklift is a special task, and in many places, operators must complete a training program and become certified. For example, in the United States, OSHA requires training and evaluation for forklift operators to operate safely. Like forklifts, operating a telescopic forklift usually requires special training and certification. This ensures that the driver operates the equipment proficiently and avoids safety accidents.
Whether you drive a forklift or a mini telescopic forklift, you need the corresponding driver’s license or driver’s certificate. These certificates are important qualifications to ensure that the driver has the necessary skills and knowledge. It is important to check the specific regulations in your area to ensure compliance and ensure safe operation.
| Feature | Telehandler | Forklift |
| Application Areas | Construction sites, agriculture, mining, manufacturing and other complex environments | Widely used in multiple fields such as production lines, warehouses, ports,mainly for material handling and stacking |
| Load Capacity | Equipped with higher lifting capacity, high-performance telehandelr can reach over 10 tons | The lifting capacity is relatively small, generally between 1.5-3 tons |
| Height and Reach | Extendable boom provides additional height and horizontal reach capabilities | Limited to vertical lifting, cannot extend to distant or high locations |
| Environment Suitability | Adaptable to various complex work environments, with strong adaptability | More suitable for linear handling operations in spacious and flat areas. |
| cost-effectiveness | High cost but widely applicable, can replace various devices and reduce manpower. | Low initial investment, affordable price, and low maintenance cost |
| licence | Both traditional forklifts and telescopic forklifts require corresponding driver’s licenses or operating certificates. | |
Telescopic handler forklifts and traditional forklifts are both industrial equipment for cargo handling and stacking. Both can effectively lift and move heavy objects, playing a key role in warehousing, logistics and manufacturing. Telehandlers are more expensive and complex to operate, but provide greater flexibility; traditional forklifts are more economical and easy to operate, suitable for daily standard material handling tasks. When choosing, it is necessary to comprehensively consider the specific needs of the project and cost factors to determine the most suitable model.
EPDAS is a professional construction machinery supplier. We have a variety of telehandler models for you to choose from. Come and contact us to get the latest quotation!
