Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
A forklift could function either by an electric motor or by an internal combustion or IC motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor application and cost less to utilize. IC machinery are best for outdoor application and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where the quality of air is a concern, the electric forklift is the ideal machinery you can use since it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is less. The disadvantage is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor use, but when used outdoors they should be utilized carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor use, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually operates on one type of fuel, it may be a wise choice to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same type of fuel. They can run 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. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Types of Forklifts
Within warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed 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.