The number of choices that has to be made when choosing a new or used forklift can be overwhelming, regardless if you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of lift trucks or if you are starting with your first lift truck. There are various options like electric models, IC or internal combustion engines or the newest hybrid lifts. Taking time to review your needs and get what you want out of your machine so as to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your dock or warehouse is truly crucial.
The upfront costs are of course a key consideration when making a big purchase. The long term operating costs of the forklift also need to be considered. Like for example, keep in mind that your biggest expense in this particular category is going to be the fueling expenses associated with operating your lift truck.
Among the current IC lift trucks on the market today, the diesel unit tends to provide some of the least expensive operating and fuel expenses. These kinds of forklifts could easily out-lift and out-power your typical electric lift truck.
There are numerous pros and cons connected with diesel lift trucks just like there are with all forklift units. The following is a brief guide for buying diesel lift truck units in order to help you cut through the confusion and help determine the model best for your requirements. If you know about the potential pitfalls, you would be prepared to make a wise purchase.
The low operating expenses of the diesel lift truck is probably their greatest benefit. The diesel unit is typically 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 applications.
Though diesel forklifts are great for outdoor environments, they are however not utilized properly indoors. The emissions from a diesel units could be really dangerous if not ventilated correctly in an indoor warehouse. Furthermore, diesel forklifts are significantly louder than their emission-free electric counterparts.