Whether you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of forklifts or if you are just beginning with your very first lift truck, the number of decisions that go into selecting a used or new forklift could really be overwhelming. There is such a wide array of options such as internal combustion or IC engines, electric models or the newest hybrid lifts. Taking time to know all your requirements and get what you would like out of your machine in order to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your warehouse or dock is essential.
Of course a huge consideration like with the majority of big purchases is the upfront cost. Be sure to think about the long term expense associated with utilizing your forklift. For example, bear in mind that your largest expense in this specific category is going to be the expense to fuel and run your lift truck.
Among the existing internal combustion forklifts available on the market today, the diesel unit tends to provide some of the least expensive operating and fuel costs. These types of forklifts can easily out-lift and out-power your average electric forklift.
There are many pros and cons associated with diesel forklifts just like there are with all lift truck models. The following is a brief buying guide for diesel lift truck units in order to help determine the model best for your requirements and help you cut through the confusion. If you know about the possible pitfalls, you would be prepared to make an educated purchase.
More than likely the largest advantage enjoyed with diesel forklifts is their low operating cost. Usually, diesel is the cheapest fuel option for internal combustion lifts. Even if electric lifts are less expensive in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best for outdoor applications.
Although diesel forklifts are ideal for outdoor environments, they are however not used properly indoors. The emissions from a diesel units could be hazardous if not correctly ventilated in an indoor warehouse. In addition, diesel forklifts are significantly louder than their emission-free electric counterparts.