Whether you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of forklifts or if you are just beginning with your first lift truck, the number of choices that go into choosing a used or brand new forklift can really be overwhelming. There are various alternatives like for example electric units, IC or internal combustion engines or the latest hybrid lifts. Making time to review your requirements and get what you want out of your machine so as to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your warehouse or dock is truly important.
The upfront costs are of course a major consideration when making a big purchase. The long term operating expenses of the forklift also has to be considered. Like for example, remember that your biggest expense in this category is going to be the fueling costs associated with running your forklift.
Amongst the existing internal combustion lift trucks available on the market today, the diesel model tends to offer some of the cheapest operating and fuel expenses. These kinds of forklifts could easily out-lift and out-power your average electric lift truck.
Similar to all lift truck units, there are numerous advantages and disadvantages associated with diesel forklifts. The following is a brief buying guide for diesel lift truck units in order to help determine the model best for all your requirements and help you cut through the confusion. If you know about the possible pitfalls, you will be ready to make an educated purchase.
The low operating expenses of the diesel forklift is probably their greatest benefit. The diesel unit is usually the cheapest alternative for fuel for IC lifts. Though electric lifts are cheaper in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best for outdoor settings.
While diesel lift trucks are great for outdoor environments, they are however not utilized properly indoors. The emissions from a diesel units could be hazardous if not ventilated correctly in an indoor warehouse. In addition, diesel forklifts are a lot louder compared to their emission-free electric counterparts.