A rough terrain lift truck is designed and engineered for transporting things over difficult terrain which a pneumatic tired forklift will not traverse. The most visible feature on the rough terrain forklift is its aggressive, oversized treaded tires. This tire design allows the equipment to travel muddy, soft or bumpy terrain without getting stuck. There are a range of rough terrain unit forklifts that are 4-wheel drive too. The rough terrain lift truck falls into a Class 7 forklift.
The unique nature of the rough terrain forklift and its exceptional quality and versatility has led to widespread popularity across North America. These kinds of equipment have become the machinery of choice and have earned a positive reputation, earning a strong following from various companies and industries.
By the local market, 4-wheel drive forklifts are very well accepted. They are common sights in the construction and heavy lumber industries. The more affordable 2-wheel drive equipment are high quality and target the industrial and lumber markets. The 4-wheel drive forklifts are really common to see at any specific local building supply store.
Multi-purpose forklifts are utilized by many businesses such as: recycling industries, shipbuilding, agriculture and sod farming businesses. Within both the mining and lumber businesses where space is truly limited and often a concern, extremely compact lift truck units are used.
More than 60 years ago, the rough terrain forklift was invented when a 2-pronged lift attachment was fitted to a power buggy. The power buggy was a materials handling machinery, approximately the size of a wheelbarrow. Today, these heavy industrial machinery are common sights on construction projects and in lumberyards.
These rugged, strong cousins of industrial lift trucks continue to become a bigger part of the business. These types of machines are have endured a rough economic climate, particularly for vehicles that have military or farming applications.
In the United States, there are more than 20 different types of rough terrain lift trucks on the market. There are over 1200 units to select from. Also, there is a wide selection of rough terrain telehandlers on the market, with more than 25 different brands. Moreover, a variety of top companies like Manitou and JLG manufacture both types of equipment.
These 4-wheel drive machinery are suited for the harshest of environments. These kinds of equipment handle well in all kinds of weather conditions and can perform the hardest jobs with ease.