The number of decisions that has to be made when choosing a brand new or second-hand forklift could be overwhelming, regardless if you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of lift trucks or if you are starting with your very first lift truck. There is such a wide variety of choices like electric models, IC or internal combustion engines or the latest hybrid lifts. Making time to review all your needs and get what you would like out of your machinery in order to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your dock or warehouse is truly crucial.
Of course a large consideration as with most big purchases is the upfront cost. Be sure to think about the long term cost connected with operating your forklift. For instance, bear in mind that your largest expense in this category is going to be the cost to fuel and run your lift truck.
Amongst the existing IC lift trucks available on the market today, the diesel unit tends to provide some of the cheapest operating and fuel costs. These types of forklifts could easily out-lift and out-power your typical electric lift truck.
There are many pros and cons associated with diesel lift trucks just as there are with all lift truck varieties. The following is a brief guide for purchasing diesel forklift units in order to help determine the model best for your needs and help you cut through the confusion. By knowing about the possible pitfalls, you will be prepared to make an educated purchase.
More than likely the largest advantage enjoyed with diesel forklifts is their low operating cost. Normally, diesel is the cheapest fuel alternative for internal combustion lifts. Even if electric lifts are cheaper in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best for outdoor settings.
While diesel lift trucks are ideal for outdoor environments, they are however not used correctly indoors. The emissions from a diesel units can be hazardous if not ventilated properly in an indoor warehouse. Furthermore, diesel forklifts are significantly louder than their emission-free electric counterparts.