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 indoor application and cost less to use. IC machinery are best for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where air quality is a concern, the electric forklift is the suitable machinery you can use as it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are clean and are not noisy. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to purchase compared to 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 suggested. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when utilized outdoors they must be used cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor use, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually operates on one kind of fuel, it might be a good idea to buy an IC unit which utilizes the same fuel. They could 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; nevertheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Kinds 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 face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on hard surfaces.