With loads of competition in the markets, everyone is looking for specific ways to improve their business efficiency. With that said, if your business involves carrying and lifting heavy loads, you may require the best forklifts. Forklifts, also known as forklift trucks, are integrated with moving and lifting heavy loads. The businesses that require lifting loads on a daily basis can benefit tremendously from high-quality, sturdy forklifts. Specific designs of forklifts have been manufactured for both indoor and outdoor use. Let’s say you import and export goods and have a large warehouse. This is where you can make effective use of a forklift and improve your business. The forklifts, however, must be selected according to the needs of your trades. That said, before making a final purchase, business owners need to conduct extensive research of their business needs so that an informed decision is made.
Selecting Forklifts based on their Fuel Types
Did you know that the fuel type used in a forklift directly impacts the efficiency of the equipment? Some types of forklifts take no time to get refueled, whereas others are more time-taking. Another crucial aspect is how the fuel gets stored within the forklift. Explore your options below:
Gas Forklifts
Powered by natural gas, gas forklifts are more comfortable and much quicker to refuel. It won’t take you more than 5 to 10 minutes to have the gas forklifts refueled and have them back at work. On the downside, you require storage space as gas is kept in large canisters. You may also find gas a bit expensive as compared to the other options. The initial costs of a gas forklift can be lower. However, the fuel costs get quickly added up to the expenses. Gas forklifts are considered perfect for outdoor use, especially when using them on rugged paths. Typically, gas forklifts are capable of maneuvering up to 10,000 kg of load. These can also be effectively used for pushing and towing jobs. For indoor use, you can use gas forklifts inside a sufficiently ventilated room to remove the toxic gas emissions.
Electric Forklifts
These forklifts are run on large batteries filled with lead-acid (similar to the ones used in cars). With constant use, and depending on the forklift’s quality, the batteries are heavy-duty and can last up to 6 hours. However, the re-charging process is slightly on the longer side as it can take up to 8 hours. Not to mention the additional eight hours required afterward for the batteries to cool down. The excellent aspect of electric forklifts is that they are environment friendly and don’t emit any hazardous toxicity. Thus, electric forklifts are ideal to use indoors in the warehouse. The initial costs of electric forklifts are higher. However, in the long run, they have the lowest energy costs.
Diesel Forklifts
Powered by diesel fuel, these forklifts are quick to refuel. However, the diesel forklifts also require ample storage space as the diesel is stored in large canisters. Initially, this forklift may be cheap to buy, but the fuel expenses will add to the cost. We recommend getting the diesel forklift for outdoor use only.
