Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost less to operate. IC machinery are suitable for outdoor application and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, which makes them the machine of choice for indoor use where the quality of air is a concern. 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 lower. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when used outdoors they should be used cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are generally utilized for outdoor applications. If your fleet usually operates on one kind of fuel, it may be a good choice to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same type of fuel. They can run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; then again, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Kinds of 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 big tires for running on hard surfaces.