Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost much less to operate. IC machines are suitable for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor use where air quality is a problem. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is lower. The disadvantage is that batteries need 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 used cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually operates on one kind of fuel, it may be a wise idea to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same fuel. They could function on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and cheaper to operate; nevertheless, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other 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 position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.