Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost less to utilize. IC machinery are best for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where the quality of air is a problem, the electric forklift is the ideal machinery you can utilize because it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. 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 much lower. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor use, but when used outdoors they should be utilized carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are generally utilized for outdoor applications. If your fleet normally runs on one type of fuel, it might be a wise idea to buy an IC unit that uses the same fuel. They can run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the most economical. 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 Forklifts
Inside 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 big tires for running on hard surfaces.