Whether you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of forklifts or if you are just starting with your first lift truck, the number of choices that go into selecting a second-hand or new forklift could be overwhelming. There is such a wide array of choices such as internal combustion or IC engines, electric models or the latest hybrid lifts. Making time to know all your needs and get what you would like out of your machine so as to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your dock or warehouse is crucial.
Of course a huge consideration as with most big purchases is the upfront expense. Be sure to think about the long term expense connected with operating your forklift. Like for instance, bear in mind that your largest cost in this specific category is going to be the cost to fuel and run your forklift.
Among the existing IC forklifts available on the market nowadays, the diesel unit tends to offer some of the least expensive fuel and operating expenses. These forklifts can easily out-power and out-lift your typical electric lift truck.
There are numerous pros and cons associated with diesel lift trucks just as there are with all lift truck units. The following is a brief guide for purchasing diesel forklift units in order to help you cut through the confusion and help determine the unit best for your needs. If you know about the possible pitfalls, you would be prepared to make an educated purchase.
More than likely the biggest advantage enjoyed with diesel forklifts is their low operating expense. Usually, diesel is the cheapest fuel option for internal combustion lifts. Even though electric lifts are less costly in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best outdoors.
Although diesel forklifts are great for outdoor settings, they are however not utilized correctly indoors. The emissions from a diesel units can be hazardous if not correctly ventilated in an indoor warehouse. Furthermore, diesel forklifts are significantly louder compared to their emission-free electric counterparts.