Regardless if you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of lift trucks or if you are just beginning with your first lift truck, the number of choices which go into choosing a used or new forklift can really be overwhelming. There are numerous choices such as electric models, internal combustion or IC engines or the newest hybrid lifts. Taking time to review all your needs and get what you want out of your machinery in order to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your warehouse or dock is vital.
The upfront costs are of course a major consideration when making a huge purchase. The long term operating costs of the forklift also need to be considered. Like for example, take note that your biggest expense in this category is going to be the expense to fuel and run your lift truck.
Diesel forklifts provide some of the cheapest fuel and operating expenses among internal combustion lift trucks available on the market. These forklifts can out-power and out-lift your regular electric forklift without problems.
Similar to all lift truck varieties, there are numerous pros and cons connected with diesel forklifts. The following is a brief buying guide for diesel lift truck models in order to help determine the model best for your requirements and help you cut through the confusion. By knowing about the possible pitfalls, you would be prepared to make a wise purchase.
More than likely the largest advantage enjoyed with diesel forklifts is their low operating expense. 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 outdoors.
On the other hand, though diesel forklifts are ideal for outdoor applications, they can't be used correctly indoors. The emissions from a diesel model can be really hazardous if not correctly ventilated in an indoor warehouse. Moreover, diesel forklifts are a lot louder compared to their emission-free electric counterparts.