The electric forklift and the IC or internal combustions forklift are the two main types of fuel for forklifts utilized in the industry.
The electric forklift is typically utilized indoors away from the elements. These units are easier to use inside of a tight warehouse area. They are a lot quieter to use and make no emissions which need to be vented or collected.
However, internal combustion forklifts are great in outdoor applications and are usually utilized in external loading docks and construction zones. These models come with a less upfront cost. In addition, IC forklifts are faster to refuel compared to the electric models, as their internal batteries need several hours of recharging time.
If your business does choose an IC unit, the next decision which is normally faced is the fuel type that you will use to power your equipment. There are some newer hybrid units on the market, but the most common fuel types are gasoline, propane or diesel lift trucks.
When in the decision process to find the right lift truck for your company, examining the pros and cons of each kind of machinery is a good idea. For instance, would a propane lift be right for your particular application or business? Make time to read on to be able to know more.
Among the best advantages propane lift trucks have to offer is their immense flexibility. They are the easiest and fastest units to refill that is a huge thing to consider since it significantly minimizes downtime on your warehouse floor. For example, diesel forklifts require an on-site storage tank and pump system and electric lifts require hours to recharge. Conversely, propane cylinders are fairly quick to swap out and require no cranes or lift to handle them.
The ongoing expenses of a propane forklift can be its biggest drawback. The regular maintenance and repair costs will be more frequent with these units than diesel or gasoline forklifts. Moreover, fuel costs are typically higher on propane models than diesel or gas. It is essential to consider the fact that fuel expenses can really vary from place to place.