DIESEL VS GAS VS ELECTRIC FORKLIFTS: HIRE AND PURCHASE
With diesel, gas, and electric forklift options available, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each to get the best fit for your business. Whether you’re managing a busy warehouse, an outdoor yard or a mixed-use site, your choice will impact efficiency, cost and sustainability.
Pros and Cons of Diesel Forklifts for Hire and Purchase
Powered by a diesel internal combustion engine, these forklifts are known for their strength and durability.
Pros:
- Power and performance: Diesel forklifts provide exceptional torque and lifting capacity, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications and outdoor use.
- Longer Runtime: Unlike electric forklifts that require charging, diesel forklifts can operate continuously with quick refuelling.
- Durability: Built to handle rugged environments, diesel forklifts excel in demanding conditions, such as construction sites and outdoor storage yards.
- Easy maintenance and parts accessibility: Diesel engines are widely used, so parts and servicing expertise are readily available.
Cons:
- Emissions: Diesel engines produce higher levels of CO2 and particulates, making them unsuitable for indoor use or businesses focused on sustainability.
- Noise Levels: Diesel models are louder than gas and electric forklifts, making them unsuitable for noise-sensitive areas.
- Operating Costs: Fuel costs and maintenance on diesel engines can be higher, particularly as emission regulations become stricter.
Diesel forklifts are best suited for outdoor operations, heavy lifting, and other demanding applications. They also benefit businesses that require a forklift with long operating hours without downtime for charging.
Pros and Cons of Gas Forklifts for Hire and Purchase
Gas-powered forklifts run on Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) using an internal combustion engine. They offer a balance between power and versatility.
Pros:
- Versatile: Gas forklifts are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, providing flexibility for various work environments.
- Lower emissions: They produce fewer emissions than diesel models, making them more environmentally friendly.
- Quick refuelling: Like diesel, gas forklifts don’t require long charging times, allowing for continuous use with minimal downtime.
- Good power output: They offer a good balance between power and efficiency.
Cons:
- Fuel storage and availability: You must store LPG Cylinders safely and have a readily available supply; this can be a logistical challenge for some businesses.
- Higher fuel costs than electric: While gas is often cheaper than diesel, it can still be more expensive than running an electric forklift over time.
- Maintenance requirements: Gas forklifts require regular servicing to ensure the fuel system and engine remain in good condition, which can result in the highest maintenance costs.
Gas forklifts are best suited for operations that require quick refuelling and a combination of indoor and outdoor use. They also benefit those looking for lower emissions without switching to electric.
Pros and Cons of Electric Forklifts for Hire and Purchase
Electric forklifts are powered by rechargeable batteries, providing a clean, quiet and efficient material handling solution.
Pros
- Zero emissions: Electric forklifts are the most environmentally friendly option, making them ideal for indoor warehouses and businesses committed to sustainability.
- Lower running costs: With fewer moving parts, electric forklifts have lower maintenance costs, and electricity is often cheaper than fuel.
- Quiet operation: Unlike diesel or gas, electric models run quietly, reducing workplace noise and improving operator comfort.
- Compact and manoeuvrable: Electric forklifts are often smaller in size, making them ideal for tight warehouse spaces.
Cons
- Charging downtime: Batteries require charging, which means planning for downtime or investing in additional battery packs or opportunity charging for continuous operation.
- Higher initial cost: While running costs are lower, electric forklifts typically have a higher upfront cost.
- Limited outdoor use: Electric forklifts aren’t always suitable for rough terrain or wet conditions unless specifically designed for outdoor use.
Electric forklifts are best suited for indoor warehouses and distribution centres, especially if they are aiming for lower long-term costs. They also benefit operations that prioritise noise reduction, sustainability, or overnight use.
How to Choose the Right Forklift for Your Business
The right forklift hire or purchase depends on your business needs, operational environment and long-term goals. Here are some things to consider.
Indoor vs Outdoor use
If you primarily operate indoors, electric forklifts are the best choice due to their zero emissions, quieter operation and easy manoeuvrability.
For outdoor or mixed-use applications, gas forklifts offer versatility and low emissions, while diesel is the preferred choice for heavy-duty outdoor work.
Usage Hours and Downtime
If you require continuous operation with minimal downtime, gas or diesel forklifts enable quick refuelling.
If your operation can accommodate charging times, electric forklifts offer cost and environmental benefits. These forklifts are perfect for operations with easily predictable shifts.
Sustainability Goals
Companies aiming to reduce their carbon footprint should consider electric forklifts because they produce no tailpipe emissions.
Some gas options also offer lower emissions and cleaner burning compared to diesel. Gas is a sufficient middle ground if you want to transition to more sustainable operations.
Cost Considerations
While electric forklifts have a higher upfront cost, they tend to have lower maintenance and running costs.
Diesel and gas forklifts require ongoing fuelling expenses and servicing, but they usually have lower upfront costs.
Need Support to Choose the Best Forklift?
Unsure which forklift suits your needs? Get expert guidance and bespoke hire options from Rushlift. We offer a wide range of diesel, gas and electric forklifts to suit every application. Our expert team is on hand to assess your needs and recommend the best solution for your business.