Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
A forklift can function either by an electric motor or by an internal combustion or IC motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost much less to use. IC machines are suitable for outdoor application and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the machine of choice for indoor use where air quality is a problem. Electric forklifts are clean and are not noisy. 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 less. The disadvantage is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so buying an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, but when utilized outdoors they must be used cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than electric forklifts and are usually used for outdoor applications. If your fleet generally runs on one kind of fuel, it might be a wise idea to buy an IC unit which uses the same kind of fuel. They could run on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and cheaper to operate; nevertheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
Within 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 hard surfaces.