Regardless if you are thinking of expanding your business fleet of lift trucks or if you are just starting with your first lift truck, the number of choices that go into choosing a second-hand or new forklift can really be overwhelming. There are numerous choices like electric models, internal combustion or IC engines or the newest hybrid lifts. Making time to review your needs and get what you would like out of your equipment so as to facilitate unloading and loading applications for your dock or warehouse is truly vital.
Of course a huge consideration as with most big purchases is the upfront cost. Be sure to think about the long term cost associated with using your forklift. For instance, remember that your biggest cost in this category is going to be the expense to fuel and operate your forklift.
Among the existing internal combustion forklifts available on the market today, the diesel model tends to offer some of the cheapest operating and fuel costs. These forklifts can out-power and out-lift your typical electric forklift easily.
Like all lift truck varieties, there are various advantages and disadvantages connected with diesel lift trucks. The following is a brief buying guide for diesel lift truck models in order to help determine the model best for your needs and help you cut through the confusion. If you know about the potential pitfalls, you would be ready to make a wise purchase.
The low operating expenses of the diesel lift truck is probably their greatest advantage. The diesel unit is normally the cheapest option for fuel for IC lifts. Though electric lifts are cheaper in the long run, they don't necessarily work the best outdoors.
While diesel lift trucks are great for outdoor applications, they are however not utilized correctly indoors. The emissions from a diesel model can be dangerous if not ventilated properly in an indoor warehouse. Moreover, diesel forklifts are significantly louder than their emission-free electric counterparts.