A lift truck is a vitally important machine on many work sites, from warehouses to construction areas. If you're starting to shop for a used lift truck, you'll need to evaluate which type of model will be the best fit for the work you do. One thing to think about is the type of cab that you need. Lift trucks have all sorts of different cab designs for the operator. While they all share the common traits of having a roof overhead, the overall design of the cab can otherwise vary a lot. Here are three lift truck cab options that you'll likely encounter.
Open
An open lift truck cab design is a popular one. It features a roof over the operator, but the sides are open. The primary advantage of this design is that the operator can get in and out of the cab quickly and easily. This is ideal for a job where the operator is constantly on the move while working. It can take time to open and close a cab door, and if the operator is in and out of the cab dozens of times during a given shift, it's far better to choose a lift truck with an open cab design.
Cage
You'll also see lift trucks that have a cage-style cab. This cab has a conventional roof overhead and metal bars around the perimeter of the cab. It is a design that provides more protection for the operator than an open cab design, making it a good option in specific work environments that are a little more hazardous. The cage is ideal because even though the operator is safely enclosed, they can easily communicate with colleagues who are working in the area. This communication is valuable on all sorts of work sites.
Enclosed
Finally, you can expect to see lift trucks that have enclosed cabs. This type uses impact-resistant glass that gives the lift truck cab an appearance that is fairly similar to various types of tractors. An enclosed design protects the operator from dirt and debris. It can also be handy in an outdoor environment. Whereas the other two cab types could cause the cab to get wet during rain or snow, an enclosed design will provide a work environment that is relatively warm and dry for the operator.
It is important to consider these three cab options when you shop for a lift truck for sale.