Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor use and cost much less to utilize. IC equipment are best for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor applications where air quality is a concern. Electric forklifts are quiet and clean. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is a lot less. The downside is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is recommended. 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 applications, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet normally runs on one type of fuel, it may be a good idea to buy an IC unit that uses the same kind of fuel. They could function on gas, propane or diesel. 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. Nearly all IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Types of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for tight spaces inside warehouses. They are constructed 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.