Diesel Forklifts Vs. Electric Forklifts
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost a lot less to operate. IC machinery are suitable for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where air quality is a concern, the electric forklift is the suitable machinery you can utilize because it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are clean and are not noisy. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is much lower. The downside is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so buying an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when utilized outdoors they must be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than 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 which uses the same type of fuel. They could run on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; nevertheless, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
In warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are designed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on difficult surfaces.