Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
A forklift can function either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by an electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost less to utilize. IC equipment are suitable for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where air quality is a concern, the electric forklift is the ideal equipment you could utilize since it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is less. The downside 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 to indoor application, but when used outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor use, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet normally runs on one kind of fuel, it may be a wise idea to purchase an IC unit that utilizes the same kind of fuel. They could function on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; nevertheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Types of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for tight spaces within warehouses. They are designed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on hard surfaces.