Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
Forklifts can function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor application and cost less to utilize. IC machinery are suitable for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor use where the quality of air is a problem. Electric forklifts are quiet and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is a lot less. The disadvantage is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so buying an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, 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 usually operates on one kind of fuel, it might be a good idea to purchase an IC unit which uses the same fuel. They can function on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being less expensive to operate and easy to refuel; then again, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. The majority of 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.