Regardless if you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of lift trucks or if you are just starting with your very first lift truck, the number of choices that go into selecting a second-hand or brand new forklift could really be overwhelming. There is such a wide range of choices such as electric units, IC or internal combustion engines or the latest hybrid lifts. Making time to know all your requirements and get what you would like out of your machinery so as to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your dock or warehouse is really crucial.
The upfront expenses are of course a key consideration when making a big purchase. The long term operating expenses of the lift truck also has to be considered. For instance, bear in mind that your biggest expense in this specific category is going to be the fueling costs connected with running your lift truck.
Amongst the existing IC lift trucks available on the market these days, the diesel unit tends to provide some of the cheapest fuel and operating expenses. These types of forklifts can out-lift and out-power your average electric lift truck with no trouble.
There are many advantages and disadvantages associated with diesel forklifts just as there are with all lift truck models. The following is a brief guide for buying diesel lift truck models in order to help determine the model best for your requirements and help you cut through the confusion. If you know 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. Usually, diesel is the cheapest fuel alternative for internal combustion lifts. Even if electric lifts are less expensive in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best outdoors.
While diesel forklifts are great for outdoor applications, they are however not used correctly indoors. The emissions from a diesel model can be vary dangerous if not ventilated correctly in an indoor warehouse. Moreover, diesel forklifts are a lot louder compared to their emission-free electric counterparts.