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 use indoors and cost less to utilize. IC equipment are best for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where the quality of air is a problem, the electric forklift is the ideal machinery you could use because it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is much lower. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing 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 generally operates on one type of fuel, it may be a good idea to buy an IC unit which uses the same fuel. They could run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; nevertheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for tight spaces inside warehouses. 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.