Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
A forklift can function either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by an electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for use indoors and cost less to utilize. IC equipment are best for outdoor application and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where the quality of air is a problem, the electric forklift is the suitable machinery you can use 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 less. The disadvantage is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when used outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are commonly used for outdoor applications. If your fleet usually operates on one type of fuel, it may be a good idea to buy an IC unit which uses the same type of fuel. They could function on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; however, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
In warehouses where there are tight spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.