Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
A forklift could be powered either by an electric motor or by an internal combustion or IC motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor application and cost much less to utilize. IC machines are best for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where the quality of air is a problem, the electric forklift is the suitable machinery you can utilize as it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy compared to 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 purchasing an extra set of batteries is recommended. 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 more than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually runs on one type of fuel, it might be a wise idea to purchase an IC unit that uses 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 cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; then again, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Inside warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are designed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have big tires for running on difficult surfaces.