The number of choices that need to be made when choosing a brand new or second-hand forklift can be overwhelming, whether you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of forklifts or if you are starting with your first lift truck. There are various choices like for instance electric models, IC or internal combustion engines or the newest hybrid lifts. Making time to know all your needs and get what you would like out of your equipment so as to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your dock or warehouse is truly important.
Of course a huge consideration as with most big purchases is the upfront cost. Be sure to think about the long term cost connected with operating your forklift. Like for example, remember that your biggest cost in this category is going to be the fueling costs associated with running your forklift.
Amongst the existing IC forklifts on the market today, the diesel unit tends to provide some of the cheapest operating and fuel costs. These forklifts could easily out-lift and out-power your average electric forklift.
Similar to all lift truck varieties, there are many advantages and disadvantages associated with diesel forklifts. The following is a brief buying guide for diesel lift truck models in order to help you cut through the confusion and help determine the model best for your needs. If you know about the possible pitfalls, you will be ready to make a wise purchase.
More than likely the biggest benefit enjoyed with diesel forklifts is their low operating expense. Normally, diesel is the cheapest fuel option for internal combustion lifts. Even though electric lifts are less expensive in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best for outdoor use.
Though diesel lift trucks are ideal for outdoor applications, they are however not used correctly indoors. The emissions from a diesel units can be really dangerous if not correctly ventilated in an indoor warehouse. Furthermore, diesel forklifts are a lot louder compared to their emission-free electric counterparts.