The number of choices which need to be made when selecting a brand new or used forklift could really be overwhelming, regardless if you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of forklifts or if you are starting with your first lift truck. There is such a huge range of options such as IC or internal combustion engines, electric units or the latest hybrid lifts. Making time to know your requirements and get what you would like out of your machine so as to facilitate loading and unloading applications for your dock or warehouse is vital.
The upfront expenses are of course a key consideration when making a huge purchase. The long term operating costs of the forklift also has to be considered. For instance, remember that your largest expense in this category is going to be the fueling expenses connected with using your forklift.
Amongst the existing internal combustion forklifts on the market nowadays, the diesel unit tends to offer some of the cheapest fuel and operating expenses. These kinds of forklifts can easily out-power and out-lift your typical electric lift truck.
Similar to all lift truck varieties, there are many pros and cons associated with diesel forklifts. The following is a brief buying guide for diesel lift truck units in order to help determine the unit best for all your needs and help you cut through the confusion. By knowing 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 expense. Normally, diesel is the cheapest fuel alternative for internal combustion lifts. Though electric lifts are cheaper in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best outdoors.
While diesel lift trucks are ideal for outdoor environments, they are however not used correctly indoors. The emissions from a diesel model could be hazardous if not correctly ventilated in an indoor warehouse. Moreover, diesel forklifts are a lot louder compared to their emission-free electric counterparts.