Forklifts are one of the premier material handling pieces of equipment. They can handle a large number of loads, utilize tine extensions and accessories for handling many types of materials, operate indoors or outdoors, and lift up to fifteen tons. Due to their diversity, there are also a lot of options and decisions to make when considering starting or expanding a vehicle fleet.
The best way to start a fleet or to quickly expand capabilities is to find used forklifts for sale. Forklifts are built to have long life times, so used forklifts are a dependable and long lasting solution that will reduce the initial investment.
The first question one has to considering when looking for used forklifts for sale is what type of power plant is best suited for the job site. The two primary categories are internal combustion engines and electric engines. Getting down this first option will help narrow down the available selection and make it easier to find the perfect lift for the job.
Electric Engines Better For Indoors
For indoor job sites, electric engines are typically preferred for used forklifts. They make no emissions or soot that will stain stored goods over time but are also not to be used outdoors in the rain. The lack of fuel needed also means that no combustible liquids have to be stored securely and safely on site, removing one potential hazard. In its place, a battery charging station is required.
Overall, the operating costs to run electric models are lower than combustion engines due to the difference in fuel costs and less required maintenance. Electric engines are comparably simpler than combustion engines since there are fewer moving parts, offering easy repairs and longer lifespan. However, these cost benefits are balanced against a high up-front cost.
Electric lifts are ideal for indoor or confined spaces without emissions or excessive noise. The initial cost is higher, but this is offset with lower running costs and by finding used forklifts for sale.
Heavy Duty Combustion Engines
Nothing can beat the carrying capacity, top speed, and acceleration of a combustion engine. For heavy duty jobs, combustion engines are the best bet. They can be run indoors or outdoors, but they will emit fumes. Indoor job sites will need to have adequate ventilation and run the risk of leaving soot on stored items; however, propane engines can be used as a relatively clean fuel source for these engines.
Where electric engines are cheaper to operate but more expensive to buy, combustion engines are the opposite. While maintenance and fuel costs can be substantial, used forklifts with combustion engines are extremely affordable. They are quick and easy to refuel and do not require long charging and rest periods like electric lifts.
When looking for used forklifts for sale, matching the right power plant to the job is the initial step to making the right choice. For cleaner, quieter, indoor operations, electric engines fit the bill, where combustion engines provide more power and speed. While the amount of choices may be daunting, they serve to provide the best lift for a given job.
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