Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
A forklift could function either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by an electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost a lot less to utilize. IC machinery are best for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor applications where the quality of air is a problem. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is a lot less. The disadvantage is that batteries need 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 should be utilized carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are commonly utilized for outdoor applications. If your fleet generally runs on one type of fuel, it may be a good idea to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same kind of fuel. They can run 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 per-hour cost to operate is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for tight spaces inside 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.