Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
A forklift could be powered either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by an electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor application and cost a lot less to utilize. IC machines 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 air quality is a concern. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. 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 a lot less. The downside is that batteries need 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 utilized outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet generally operates on one kind of fuel, it might be a wise choice to buy an IC unit which utilizes the same fuel. They can function on diesel, gas or propane. 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 utilized indoors.
Other Types 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 huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.