Diesel Forklifts Vs. Electric Forklifts
Forklifts can function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost less to use. IC machines are suitable for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor use where air quality is a problem. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is a lot less. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, but when used outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are usually used for outdoor applications. If your fleet generally runs on one type of fuel, it might be a wise idea to purchase an IC unit that utilizes the same fuel. They can function on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; however, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Types of Forklifts
Within warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on hard surfaces.