Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
A forklift can function either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by an electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost a lot less to utilize. IC machinery are suitable 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 air quality is a concern. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is much lower. The disadvantage is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when utilized outdoors they should be used cautiously.

Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than electric forklifts and are commonly used for outdoor applications. If your fleet generally runs on one kind of fuel, it may be a wise choice to purchase an IC unit which utilizes the same fuel. They could function on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; nonetheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be utilized indoors.

Other Types of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for tight spaces within warehouses. They are designed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have big tires for running on hard surfaces.