Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
A forklift can function either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by an electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost much less to use. IC machines are suitable for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, which makes them the equipment of choice for indoor applications where the quality of air is a concern. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is a lot less. The disadvantage is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor use, but when utilized outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are usually utilized for outdoor applications. If your fleet normally runs on one kind of fuel, it may be a wise choice to buy an IC unit which utilizes the same fuel. They could run on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; then again, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Forklifts
In warehouses where there are tight spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on hard surfaces.