Choosing the right forklift for your business is a BIG DECISION – one can have a significant impact on your business’s productivity, efficiency, and long-term operational costs.
Deciding between an electric forklift or an internal combustion (IC) forklift is like reaching a fork in the road, and your path depends on your unique operational needs. Let us break it down with the most crucial factors to consider so you can make a choice that truly stacks up.
Operating Environment
The Terrain Test
The first factor to consider is where your forklift will be putting in the work. Electric forklifts are the quiet achievers of the forklift world, best suited for indoor environments like warehouses, retail spaces, and distribution centers. Since they produce zero emissions, they won’t impact your air quality and reduce the health and safety risks for your employees. Plus, their quiet operation is also a benefit, making them perfect for noise-sensitive spaces; you won’t have forklifts raising the roof for all the wrong reasons.
In contrast, internal combustion forklifts are more robust and thrive outdoors. These rugged workhorses are designed to operate efficiently in rugged conditions, including uneven surfaces and varying weather conditions. If your forklift needs to be a tread-setter and your operations involve heavy-duty work, rough terrain, extended outdoor use, or indoor operations in a well-ventilated environment, the internal combustion option might be your go-to.
Fuel Type and Availability
Powering Up or Filling Up
Electric forklifts run on rechargeable batteries, usually lead-acid or lithium-ion, making them the unplug and play choice. While the upfront cost of an electric forklift may be a tad more premium, their lower operating costs could charge up your long-term savings, as electricity is generally a cheaper alternative than fuel. Plus, they’re easy to recharge during off-hours, or you can swap the battery out- keeping downtime to a minimum. However, if you have high usage needs each day, you will either need to have another battery or another forklift on hand. Elsewise, perhaps an ICE forklift is a better fit for you!
Forklifts with an internal combustion engine, on the other hand, are fueled by diesel, petrol, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). They’re the fast fillers of the forklift world, refueling quickly so you can get back to work without missing a beat and minimising downtime. However, fluctuations in fuel prices and fuel storage requirements could put your budget in the hot seat. Additionally, if your operations are in a region with strict emissions regulations, internal combustion forklifts might not be the most ideal choice.
Maintenance and Operating Costs
Keeping it Moving
Electric forklifts are the ideal choice for those seeking a low-maintenance forklift, requiring minimal upkeep compared to traditional internal combustion models. With fewer moving parts, they do not require oil changes, engine maintenance, and transmission upkeep, helping you save on maintenance costs. Now, before you short circuit with excitement at all these savings, some battery maintenance IS still required, especially for lead-acid batteries which must be regularly watered and maintained.
Internal combustion forklifts, on the other hand, have much greater ongoing needs. They have more complex mechanical systems, which require regular maintenance, leading to higher maintenance costs. However, internal combustion forklifts are often more durable and can handle heavier loads, especially in demanding environments. Additionally, with proper maintenance, internal combustion forklifts often have a longer lifespan compared to electric forklifts. You must also consider the cost of regular fuel purchases, which can vary depending on usage, so if you’re trying to keep things rolling on a tight budget, an IC forklift might be a bumpy ride.
Lifting Capacity and Performance
Heavyweights vs. Speedsters
If heavy lifting is your game, internal combustion forklifts are here to flex their muscles. They’re the powerlifters of the forklift world, typically more powerful, built to handle higher load capacities, and run continuously without needing a recharge or cool-down break. Industries running multiple shifts or doing heavy-duty outdoor work often lean on internal combustion forklifts to carry the load.
However, while historically seen as lightweights, electric forklifts are quickly catching up. Advances in battery technology mean they can handle heavier loads than ever before. However, for now, if your operations don’t involve pushing your forklifts to their absolute limit, an electric forklift may suffice without compromising performance.
Environmental Considerations
Forklifting the Future
In a world where sustainability is top-of-mind, electric forklifts are the green machines. With no direct emissions and lower noise pollution, they’re an eco-friendly choice for businesses, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and increase their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
On the other hand, internal combustion forklifts, though powerful, come with a carbon price tag. Their exhaust emissions and reliance on fuels make them less environmentally friendly and contribute to greenhouse gases. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Propane-powered models and low-emission engines are helping to clean up their act as a more sustainable choice – though they’re still not as eco-friendly as electric forklifts.
The Final Word
Choosing between an electric and internal combustion forklift doesn’t have to be a challenging decision. Electric forklifts are perfect for indoor use, offering quiet, low-emission operation and minimal maintenance. However, they require strategic planning due to charging times, which can impact your workflow if not managed properly.
Meanwhile, internal combustion forklifts bring the muscle for outdoor, heavy-duty tasks, with the advantage of quick refueling—but they come with fluctuating fuel costs and higher maintenance needs. Your budget plays a crucial role in this decision. While electric forklifts may have a higher upfront cost, they can lead to long-term savings with lower maintenance and energy expenses. On the other hand, internal combustion forklifts will work better for your budget in the short term but may be more costly over time due to fuel expenses and more frequent servicing.
By selecting the right forklift for your operations, you can improve efficiency, boost productivity, and reduce strain on your equipment—lowering maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of your unit.
Let us assist in finding the right forklift for your operations and your business will be moving in no time—and boost your productivity to new heights.
Need a forklift solution? Fork Force offers short-term hire (under 3 months), long-term hire, and our exclusive Rent-To-Own Program. With over 4,000 forklifts in our fleet and nationwide support, including Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and beyond; we are ready to help you find the perfect solution.
Call us on 1300 430 181 or request a quote today to discuss your needs and keep your forklifts moving!
