Electric Forklift versus Diesel Forklift
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost much less to operate. IC equipment are best for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.

Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, which makes them the machinery of choice for indoor use where the quality of air is a concern. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is much less. The downside is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor use, but when utilized outdoors they must be used carefully.

Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor use, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet generally operates on one type of fuel, it might be a wise choice to buy an IC unit which utilizes the same type of fuel. They could function on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; nonetheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be used indoors.

Other Forklifts
In warehouses where there are tight spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on difficult surfaces.