Browse Our Forklift Blog Article Archive https://www.liftone.net/blog/category/forklifts/ Hyster & Yale Forklift Dealer Mon, 02 Jun 2025 16:51:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.liftone.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/favicon-192x192-1-150x150.png Browse Our Forklift Blog Article Archive https://www.liftone.net/blog/category/forklifts/ 32 32 Making sense of the “Safety Triangle” – Three layers of forklift safety best practices https://www.liftone.net/blog/best-practices-for-forklift-safety/ https://www.liftone.net/blog/best-practices-for-forklift-safety/#respond Wed, 07 May 2025 13:26:04 +0000 https://www.liftone.net/?p=59975 Safety is critical in the materials handling industry. Industry statistics estimate that approximately one out of every 10 forklifts is involved in an accident in the United States each year. However, OSHA also estimates that approximately 70 percent of these accidents could be avoided through better adherence to standardized training and safety procedures. That significant…

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Safety is critical in the materials handling industry. Industry statistics estimate that approximately one out of every 10 forklifts is involved in an accident in the United States each year. However, OSHA also estimates that approximately 70 percent of these accidents could be avoided through better adherence to standardized training and safety procedures. That significant reduction in accidents can, in turn, help decrease occupational injuries and associated costs. But how do you know if your operation is doing enough to support lift truck operating best practices?

The truth is, there’s no single, silver bullet – forklift safety requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach, including training, real-time support and monitoring, and reactive evaluation after-the-fact.

In addition, you need to partner with a material handling supplier that can help support your lift truck operating best practices. Here are three layers of forklift safety practices that LiftOne can help support so you can build a comprehensive forklift safety strategy for your operations.

  1. Forklift training: build a strong foundation.
  2. Telemetry: monitor operator performance in real time with a telemetry tool like Hyster Tracker and Yale Vision
  3. Enhanced stability system: help reinforce best practices with forklift technologies like operator assist systems (OAS) with Hyster Reaction and Yale Reliant, and dynamic stability system.
Safety-triangle-white-paper

Contact LiftOne for More Information

LiftOne is your source for the warehouse equipment and aftermarket solutions you need to get the job done safely and efficiently. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you operate a safe and effective warehouse.

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Be Ready When It Matters: Forklift Rentals Made Easy https://www.liftone.net/blog/forklift-rentals-made-easy/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 18:09:21 +0000 https://www.liftone.net/?p=59048 Keep your operations moving and your deliveries on schedule with flexible forklift and materials handling accessory rentals. LiftOne is your authorized Hyster and Yale dealer across the Southeast and can provide tailored forklift rental solutions that fit your business needs, ensuring you’re ready for anything. Why Rent? Minimize Risk and Maximize Efficiency Whether you’re managing…

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Keep your operations moving and your deliveries on schedule with flexible forklift and materials handling accessory rentals. LiftOne is your authorized Hyster and Yale dealer across the Southeast and can provide tailored forklift rental solutions that fit your business needs, ensuring you’re ready for anything.

Why Rent? Minimize Risk and Maximize Efficiency

Whether you’re managing seasonal spikes or tackling a special project, renting forklifts or handling accessories is a smart, low-risk way to meet temporary demands. LiftOne has a wide selection of late-model, low-hour equipment, and the expertise to guide you toward the perfect solution. From forklifts, mobile elevated platforms, trailer spotters and more, we have in-stock rentals at a location near you.

When Should You Rent a Forklift?

Here are key situations when renting is the best choice for your business:

  • Temporary Workload Increases: No need for long-term financial commitments when handling a short-term influx of work.
  • Hassle-Free Maintenance: Your technicians only handle pre-shift checks while LiftOne technicians take care of all scheduled maintenance.
  • Access to Modern Equipment: Equip your operators with up-to-date forklifts designed to boost productivity during busy periods.
  • Scalable Fleet Management: Once demand normalizes, simply return the rental equipment to LiftOne to keep your fleet lean and efficient.

Forklift Attachments for Added Flexibility

Need even more versatility? Renting forklift attachments allows you to customize your equipment to meet fluctuating production demands. From specialized handling tasks to improving adaptability, accessories give your business the flexibility to handle whatever comes your way.

Stay Ahead of Demand – Contact LiftOne to Book Your Rental

Partner with LiftOne today for reliable forklift rentals and customized materials handling solutions. Be ready to seize every opportunity without the risk of overcommitting.

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How Yale® Forklifts Improve Warehouse Productivity and Efficiency https://www.liftone.net/blog/how-yale-forklifts-can-boost-warehouse-operations/ https://www.liftone.net/blog/how-yale-forklifts-can-boost-warehouse-operations/#respond Mon, 24 Jun 2024 07:12:52 +0000 https://www.liftone.net/?p=57365 Yale forklifts combine sophisticated features with thoughtful designs, making them a solid choice for enhancing productivity and efficiency in your warehouse environment. With Yale forklifts, you can get more done in less time. Yale forklifts also include safety features that reduce downtime and keep operations running. Other benefits, like improved return on investment (ROI), allow…

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Yale forklifts combine sophisticated features with thoughtful designs, making them a solid choice for enhancing productivity and efficiency in your warehouse environment. With Yale forklifts, you can get more done in less time.

Yale forklifts also include safety features that reduce downtime and keep operations running. Other benefits, like improved return on investment (ROI), allow you to maximize the value of your operations while striving for greater productivity.

The Role of Forklifts in Warehouse Operations

Forklifts are essential tools in warehouse operations. They keep large warehouses moving smoothly by allowing crews to move goods, maximize storage space and complete tasks faster. Many different types of forklifts enable operators to do various tasks, including loading trucks and fulfilling orders.

The most common types of forklifts in warehouse operations include:

  • Counterbalance forklifts: These forklifts are the most widely used model in warehouses and distribution centers. They have forks in the front and weight at the back to stabilize the loads you carry.
  • Reach trucks: In a narrow-aisle warehouse, these lift trucks allow you to reach into racking systems to retrieve pallets. The extended forks improve reach.
  • Order pickers: You can use these lift trucks to pick individual items from shelves or pallets at various heights. Order pickers have platforms the operator stands on to complete the picking process.
  • Pallet trucks: These basic forklifts work for moving pallets and palletized loads from one area to another in your warehouse. Due to their smaller footprint, they also work well in tight spaces.
  • Tow tractors: These specialized load carriers allow you to transport materials along horizontal surfaces. They enable operators to move many heavy pallets or loads at the same time.
  • Pallet stackers: Warehouses use pallet stackers to move and stack merchandise. They work like pallet trucks but with added lifting capabilities.

Yale Forklifts: A Trusted Solution

Whether your warehouse needs a forklift or a pallet stacker, Yale equipment provides a solution. Yale has offered innovative lift truck and forklift solutions for over 100 years. Over its century of operation, the manufacturer has applied processes of continuous improvement to meet the fast-evolving landscape of the material-handling industry. Yale's forward focus and client-centric mindset result in forklifts designed to unlock the potential of your material-handling operation.

Yale's awards show its commitment to excellence in manufacturing. The company has won the Edison Award for its robotic reach truck, which provides autonomous work solutions.

Yale forklifts can improve every area of your operations with proper use, including productivity and efficiency.

Enhancing Efficiency With Yale Forklifts

From innovative technology to low-maintenance designs, Yale forklifts have various features that can enhance efficiency in your warehouse.

Automation

Yale offers robotic lift trucks, tow tractors and stackers that provide automated solutions for warehousing and material handling. They can improve operator efficiency and fill in gaps caused by workforce turnover. This material-handling equipment takes care of repetitive and monotonous warehouse processes, allowing you to increase your crew's capabilities with the same number of people.

Power Sources

The right forklift power source enhances efficiency. Yale forklifts use various power sources, each with its own advantages. Lithium-ion batteries offer quick charging. Hydrogen fuel cells can refuel in minutes. Both power options create a more efficient material-handling operation with less downtime.

Longevity

Yale forklifts are lower maintenance and less part-intensive than many other models. Their easy-to-service design means less downtime in the event of a breakdown. They also use high-quality components for a longer life span.

Improving Safety Standards

An unexpected breakdown or operator injury can halt material-handling operations. Better safety can improve productivity and efficiency in your warehouse — and many Yale forklifts offer safety features to enhance your work.

Lights and alarms can increase awareness, especially in environments with limited visibility. Lights can guide operators, giving them a clear sight to perform tasks. Alarms aid in busy warehouses where operators and pedestrians work close to one another.

Yale Reliant™ helps to prevent forklift safety incidents by detecting and responding to hazards. Hazardous events may include a pedestrian walking in the path of a lift truck or a load sliding off the forks. This safety technology allows crews to keep operations running smoothly with fewer accidents.

Forklifts equipped with Yale Vision telemetry allow you to monitor the equipment, reduce damage and extend its life span. These benefits contribute to increased efficiency. Your equipment will run more reliably with fewer unexpected breakdowns or service requirements.

Cost-Effectiveness and ROI

Yale forklifts also improve cost-effectiveness and provide exceptional ROI for your operation. Depending on the model you need, you can find Yale forklifts at various price points. Yale's UX series offers the most cost-effective products for less demanding applications.

Initial price aside, Yale lift trucks provide long-term cost-effectiveness. These forklifts optimize costs through reduced maintenance and repair requirements. Yale lift trucks also offer innovative technologies like robotics that improve your ROI. Features like easy maintenance and advanced technologies can improve your return by allowing your forklifts to operate more effectively — and for longer.

Turn to LiftOne for Yale Forklifts

Add productivity and efficiency to your operation with Yale forklifts. LiftOne is a reliable supplier of Yale equipment with an extensive inventory of new, used and rental options. We will help you find the models you need to meet operational goals like increased efficiency and productivity.

LiftOne sells new Yale equipment in Asheville, Columbia, Greenville, Savannah, Nashville, Augusta and Greensboro. We're also a trusted supplier of used Yale forklifts and rental equipment. Browse our selection of Yale equipment or contact us online for more information.

Linked Sources:

  1. https://www.hyster-yale.com/history
  2. https://www.yale.com/en-gb/emea/why-yale/our-awards/
  3. https://www.yale.com/en-us/north-america/technology/robotics/yale-robotics/
  4. https://www.liftone.net/blog/increase-forklift-productivity/
  5. https://www.yale.com/en-us/north-america/technology/power-sources/
  6. https://www.yale.com/en-us/north-america/technology/safety-awareness/
  7. https://www.yale.com/en-us/north-america/technology/safety-awareness/lights-alarms/
  8. https://www.yale.com/en-us/north-america/technology/telematics/yale-reliant/
  9. https://www.yale.com/en-us/north-america/technology/telematics/yale-vision/
  10. https://www.yale.com/en-us/north-america/support-resources/white-papers/help-reduce-operating-costs-with-robotic-lift-trucks/

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Top Tips for Forklift Safety https://www.liftone.net/blog/top-tips-for-forklift-safety/ https://www.liftone.net/blog/top-tips-for-forklift-safety/#respond Mon, 10 Jun 2024 13:30:25 +0000 https://www.liftone.net/?p=6993   Download Printable Poster Your forklift operators are an essential part of your business, and their job comes with some risks. Without the right safety practices, your workers may suffer accidents that lead to expensive repairs and workers' compensation claims. Proper forklift safety is key to running an efficient and safe operation. As a warehouse…

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Download Printable Poster

Your forklift operators are an essential part of your business, and their job comes with some risks. Without the right safety practices, your workers may suffer accidents that lead to expensive repairs and workers' compensation claims. Proper forklift safety is key to running an efficient and safe operation.

As a warehouse or distribution leader, your job is to know how to improve forklift safety for the benefit of all your workers. We've compiled a list of the 15 most important safety tips for operating forklifts. Use them to create a safer workplace where your forklift operators can feel confident around their equipment.

For your convenience, you can also download our printable version of these safety tips to share around your facility.


15 of the Top Forklift Safety Tips

Following forklift safety best practices helps maintain operational efficiency and keeps your team safe. Consider the following forklift safety tips for the workplace to foster a healthier work environment:

1. Receive Proper Training

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires your forklift operators to receive proper training via their employer to legally and safely operate a forklift. Hold or attend operator training classes to certify operators as soon as possible after they are hired. You can trust certified forklift operators to get their work done while keeping themselves, their associates and your company's product safe. Learn more about LiftOne's training programs.

2. Inspect Forklifts Each Shift

Forklift inspections should happen at the start of each shift. Using the included operator’s manual, test controls including lights, breaks, horns and steering wheels should be conducted before each shift. Look over the entire forklift for signs of damage that could signal the need for repairs. Check brake, fuel, engine, hydraulic and coolant levels. Inspect the floor and engine bay for leaks. Make sure the forks are in good condition without any signs of damage or wear. Only then can you deem a forklift safe for work.

3. Wear the Proper Attire When Operating Forklifts

You must be sure that every forklift operator is wearing the appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) for the job. Long, loose garments or clothes with tassels or strings can get caught in the mechanics of the forklift, potentially leading to injury. If your warehouse has a uniform, be sure every employee is following it. Instruct each of your forklift operators to follow any dress code rules as these are in place for their safety.

4. Understand the Forklift Classes

There are seven classifications of forklifts, each with unique characteristics. Differences can include turning radius, capacity, power source and many other factors. An operator should only get into the operator's seat if they have been trained appropriately.

5. Review Traffic Patterns

Warehouses can be busy places with people and forklifts always traveling in different directions. Take measures to increase forklift traffic safety by applying bright, visible floor markings to the ground of your warehouse. These markings can provide specific areas for forklift and foot traffic. They can also guide forklifts in safe directions when the flow of traffic goes two ways.

6. Use Signals to Alert Others in the Area

In a busy facility, sounds can blend together. Workers may move their forklift around a corner or up or down an incline without knowing what is beyond their eyesight or earshot. People walking may also be unaware of the forklift action happening around the corner. Have operators use their horn at intersections or blind spots. If horns are not effective, consider alternatives, like blue travel lights or red zone curtains to provide a visual tool to recognize oncoming traffic.

7. Move at Appropriate Speeds

Your forklift operators can avoid countless accidents by moving at safer speeds. Chances of accidents are higher if your forklift operators are ripping around turns or moving freight at a rapid rate. Make sure your forklift operators stay below the maximum speed and put safety before quickness. Additional safety tools, like telemetry, can help assist operators in maintaining safe speeds.

8. Ensure Forklift Stability

Every forklift has a maximum load rating. Exceeding this load limit can impact the forklift's stability. Picking up packages in a haphazard or uneven way can also reduce the forward stability of a forklift. Make sure your forklift operators understand how to keep their forklifts stable as they manipulate loads through your facility.

9. Maintain Visibility in the Direction of Travel

Forklift operators should make their operating decisions with full awareness of what is going on around them. For this to be possible, each operator must maintain visibility in the direction of travel. This OSHA requirement can protect your operators from accidents, and ensure your pedestrians are able to flow safely through your facility.

10. Avoid Using Forklifts to Transport People

Under no circumstances should a forklift operator transport another person on the forklift or the forks themselves. The only acceptable time for two people to be on a forklift is if two seats are present on the equipment. If personnel must be raised in the air, an acceptable personnel basket should be used, with the operator only raising and lowering the basket.

11. Stay Clear of Hazardous Areas

Forklift safety extends beyond the forklift operators themselves and includes employees on the ground as well. Your workers should never walk under lifted loads or in the blind spots of a forklift. Likewise, workers should also avoid walking in front of forklifts that are on the move to their next destination. Encourage pedestrians to familiarize themselves with the limited views and operating characteristics of the forklifts used in your facility.

12. Make Sure Each Load Is Secure

Your forklift operators should engage the entirety of their forks beneath every load. An object that is not completely on the forks, with the forks spread wide, is at risk of falling off and injuring someone. If loads are unstable, consider securements like straps or plastic wrap to ensure stability.

13. Maintain a Safe Operating Distance from Other Forklift Operators

Each forklift operator should do their work at a safe distance from other operators. Operators traveling should maintain a distance of three truck lengths while following other forklifts. When lifting the forks, consider a “drop zone” to accommodate for potential accident scenarios. This can help reduce the number of collisions in your warehouse and aid in forklift traffic safety.

14. Park Each Forklift at the End of Shifts

Forklift operators must park their forklifts in designated locations at the end of their shifts. Not only can this rule keep forklifts organized and make them easier to inspect, it will also help clear the travel lanes in your warehouse for other affected personnel or emergency scenarios.

15. Use Safe Practices When Refueling or Recharging Forklifts

Safety should be the number one consideration when preparing a forklift’s power for another shift. If refueling, park the forklift in a well-ventilated space and wear proper PPE before exchanging a tank. If charging a forklift battery, be sure to use the proper PPE to check water levels, keep the battery compartments open to dissipate heat, and keep the forklift parked in a safe configuration.

Contact LiftOne for More Information

Warehouse safety starts with you and your employees, but it also depends on using the right material handling equipment. LiftOne is your source for the warehouse equipment and aftermarket solutions you need to get the job done safely and efficiently.

Contact us today for more information on how we can help you operate a safe and effective warehouse.

 

 

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Forklift Classifications Guide https://www.liftone.net/blog/forklift-classifications-guide/ https://www.liftone.net/blog/forklift-classifications-guide/#respond Mon, 13 May 2024 18:24:15 +0000 https://www.liftone.net/?p=54456 Does your business depend on forklifts to perform various material handling tasks in a warehouse, manufacturing plant or another facility? You probably know there are numerous forklift types and sizes on the market, so it's important to select the right truck for your application. What Are the Forklift Types and Sizes? The description of the…

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01-forklift-classifications

Does your business depend on forklifts to perform various material handling tasks in a warehouse, manufacturing plant or another facility? You probably know there are numerous forklift types and sizes on the market, so it's important to select the right truck for your application.

What Are the Forklift Types and Sizes?

The description of the forklift types encompasses their function and power sources, which can be gas, diesel or electric. The specific gas model versions are gasoline, compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). Electric forklifts run on specially designed industrial batteries, like lithium-ion or lead acid batteries.

Gas-powered equipment is beneficial to some because of its lower upfront costs, consistent power delivery and versatility. However, because these models contain fuel-burning internal combustion engines that emit fumes, they're better suited for outdoor use. Electric versions can be used indoors due to their quiet operation and lack of emissions, although the battery requires charging, so your operation’s shifts need to be considered.

Forklift sizes vary widely, tailored to suit varying aisle widths and lift capacities to meet your specific needs. For example, walkie stackers and order pickers are smaller walk-behind models used for tasks like order selection and maneuvering pallets in a  warehouse environment. A reach truck can fit in narrow aisles with options to reach varying heights in warehouses with double-deep storage. Industrial forklifts are high-capacity equipment that can handle heavier loads, and rough terrain units are ideal for uneven outdoor surfaces.

Use the Forklift Size Chart to Help You Select the Right Equipment

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed a forklift size guide that categorizes the equipment into different classes based on fuel source and intended use. Forklift operators must attain OSHA certification for the classes of equipment they use while on the job.

Class 1 — Electric Motor Rider Trucks

This forklift classification pertains to ride-on electric models that typically perform tasks like transporting pallets and loading and unloading trailers in an indoor environment. Industries that use this equipment include food storage, retail and general warehousing. They tend to be more compact and use the battery as a counterweight. Examples of specific models include three-wheel electric trucks and counterbalanced rider vehicles with cushion or pneumatic tires.

Class 2 — Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks

A narrow aisle forklift can travel and maneuver in spaces less than half the width of standard warehouse aisles. They perform well in smaller warehouses that have a high storage density. Examples of lifts that fit this classification include battery-powered turret trucks, high-lift straddle trucks, reach-type outriggers and side loaders.

Class 3 — Electric Motor Hand Trucks or Hand/Rider Trucks

These electric forklifts are designed for working in confined areas and at lower heights. They're adept at moving materials around an indoor warehouse and lighter loading and unloading activities. They also perform well when unloading delivery trucks over shorter distances. Examples include low-lift platform and low-lift walkie pallet trucks, reach-type outriggers, and high-lift counterbalanced lift trucks.

Class 4 — Internal Combustion Engine With Cushion Tires

Cushion tire forklifts perform well on smooth, hard surfaces. Most of these models are built lower to the ground, making them a solid choice for well-ventilated indoor environments. These vehicles also have a tight turning radius, a positive attribute when working in confined spaces.

Class 5 — Internal Combustion Engine With Pneumatic Tires

These trucks are ideally suited for indoor or outdoor settings and rougher surfaces, although warehouse environments represent the most typical applications. Their greater capacity enables them to accommodate light single-pallet loads and some container loads. Available fuel types include diesel, LPG, CNG and gasoline.

LiftOne Has the Right Forklift for Your Needs

LiftOne is a full-service material handling dealership offering a wide selection of high-quality new, used and rental forklifts from leading manufacturers across the Southeast. We have the experience and expertise to help you determine the appropriate equipment classification for your applications.

Our support services include operator training to ensure your teams comply with the stringent OSHA requirements for operating a forklift, regardless of its classification. We also offer train-the-trainer programs that allow you to provide on-site instruction with your in-house personnel.

Contact Us to Learn More

Do you have questions about the various forklift sizes, types and classifications? The knowledgeable material handling professionals at LiftOne have the answers. Take the next step and call us at 855.543.8663 to speak to a representative or contact us online to request additional information today.

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How to Choose the Right Power Source to Increase Forklift Productivity https://www.liftone.net/blog/increase-forklift-productivity/ https://www.liftone.net/blog/increase-forklift-productivity/#respond Fri, 15 Dec 2023 18:06:30 +0000 https://www.liftone.net/?p=37091 Is it time to assess the power sources used by your forklift fleet? Forklifts can now be powered by an array of energy sources — from batteries to hydrotreated vegetable oil! According to recent industry data by ACS Omega, 69% of shipped forklifts are now electric, while a shrinking proportion — 31% — are powered by…

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Is it time to assess the power sources used by your forklift fleet? Forklifts can now be powered by an array of energy sources — from batteries to hydrotreated vegetable oil! According to recent industry data by ACS Omega, 69% of shipped forklifts are now electric, while a shrinking proportion — 31% — are powered by an internal combustion engine.

In this guide, you'll learn the differences between multiple fuel sources to decide which suits your operation.

Types of Forklift Power Sources

Forklift power sources fit into electric and internal combustion categories, which allow you to choose more specific options to suit your business.

Electric

According to estimates from the Electric Power Research Institute, energy costs of 5,000-pound capacity electric forklifts are about 1/5 compared to propane-, diesel- or gas-powered models. With fewer moving parts, operational and maintenance costs are nearly half as much as fossil-fuel-powered lifts.

If you decide an electric forklift is right for your business, you'll find them classified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as Class I, Class II or Class III according to their capabilities:

  • Class I: Electric motor rider trucks
  • Class II: Electric motor narrow aisle trucks
  • Class III: Electric motor hand trucks or hand/rider trucks

Electric forklifts have three power sources:

  1. Lithium-ion: These batteries have advanced sustainable power. They offer minimal maintenance, consistent energy in hot and cold environments and a space-saving design.
  2. Hydrogen fuel cells: With Hydrogen-powered forklifts, you'll get quiet operation and fast refueling in as little as three minutes. The fuel also comes from natural, recyclable resources, making it environmentally friendly.
  3. Lead acid: This traditional electric power source offers lower startup costs and is a reliable power source with a long record of success. Newer options in this category include thin pure plate lead.

Internal Combustion

Forklifts with internal combustion engines use fuel sources like gasoline, diesel or compressed natural gas. They provide benefits like:

  • The ability to work in areas without power grid access
  • Small fueling infrastructure to save you space
  • A short refueling time to allow for more work
  • Longer operating times between refueling

Here's an overview of internal combustion power options:

  • Diesel: This power source provides better efficiency and longer run times than other fuel types. It also provides higher torque. One downside is that diesel produces soot that builds up in exhaust systems. Diesel forklifts are also designed for outdoor use due to their noise and higher emissions.
  • Gasoline: While gasoline is relatively rare due to the lack of gasoline fuel stations and the popularity of dual-fuel forklifts, this fuel source works well for those with readily available fueling stations. Gasoline forklifts have better rearward visibility without a liquid petroleum (LP) tank and provide more power than diesel.
  • Liquid petroleum gas: This fuel source gives the lowest initial cost because you only need to purchase tanks and storage. The fuel tanks work on indoor and outdoor forklifts and can be swapped in minutes.
  • Compressed natural gas (CNG): The main benefits of CNG are its lower emissions and speed of refueling since the tank can be refilled rather than removed like LP tanks. The disadvantages are the expensive infrastructure for CNG refueling, inadequate CNG supply and the need to obtain proper permits.

Deciding Between Electric vs. Fossil-Fuel-Powered Forklifts

While there are many power options available, you should weigh the pros and cons based on your organization's needs. Internal combustion and electric are the two main categories of lifts you'll find — additionally, a few emerging technologies like hydrogen fuel cells and hybrid forklifts are on the market. Some considerations you'll need to make include the initial cost, run time, emissions and noise.

Here are a few advantages, disadvantages and considerations to factor in.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Forklift Power Sources

Power Source Advantages Disadvantages
Internal combustion engine (ICE) Power, long running time Produces emissions, can be noisy
Electric Quiet, zero emissions Shorter runtime, must be recharged periodically
Hydrogen fuel cell Zero emissions, quick refueling New technology, may be more expensive than traditional ICE or electric forklifts
Hybrid Combines benefits of electric and ICE power sources May be more expensive than ICE or electric forklifts

Key Factors to Consider Before Purchase

Here are a few points to consider when making your forklift purchase.

Operational Cost

Some factors that influence operational costs include:

Working Environment

Consider how extreme temperatures impact forklift operations. For any piece of equipment, extremely low-temperature environments can decrease efficiency. Combustion forklifts typically perform better on a broader temperature range.

Facility Space

In some warehouses, every square foot matters. Electric forklifts typically require more room for charging infrastructure, although newer models need less space. Combustion models can accommodate storing fuel outdoors, freeing up more room for your operations. Calculate how much space you'll need and if this will decrease your storage inventory.

Operator Training

Much of the success of implementing a particular forklift depends on the people who operate it. Those businesses focusing on optimizing forklift efficiency will get significant value for their investment. Due to their charging requirements, electric forklifts often need more care for better performance.

Environmental Cost

Here are the main points to keep in mind concerning your forklift's environmental cost.

Emissions

When operating in an enclosed warehouse environment, you may need to watch emissions closely. Specific industries like food or medicine must meet strict requirements for clean air. Your business may also hold particular standards to meet sustainability goals. Electric forklifts often prove the best choice for low-emissions environments.

Electricity Access

Whether you're off the grid or interested in reducing your utility costs, you may seek a forklift model that can run without electricity. In these scenarios, internal combustion engines work best. Some businesses have electrical access that comes with high costs. Calculate how much you pay for power and incorporate this into your operation expenses.

Initial Cost

Electric-run forklifts often have a higher price point for initial purchase than combustion engine models. Within the category of electric forklifts, you may see some price variation. Newer technologies like hydrogen fuel cells might be more expensive than options like lithium-ion.

Refueling Cost

With electric forklifts, you pay the refueling cost through your electric bill. Typically, your prices will be much lower than filling combustion-powered equipment. Depending on the fuel source, you may pay more or less, with diesel often incurring the highest refueling costs.

Maintenance Costs

Due to fewer moving parts and fluids, electric forklifts often have lower maintenance requirements. No matter which forklift you choose, you will have some maintenance expenses. However, specific models will allow you to operate for longer without maintenance. When considering maintenance costs, also account for any expenses from lost operation time.

Downtime

If your operation runs day and night, you want your equipment to maintain that pace. Electric forklifts typically require extended downtime to charge, making them a better choice for light-duty or single-shift applications. For businesses seeking the least downtime with an electric model, hydrogen cells are the ideal choice.

Explore LiftOne's Line of Electric and ICE Powered Forklifts

At LiftOne, we offer a range of electric and combustion forklifts from top brands. Whether you want an electric or diesel forklift, you'll find new, used or rental options that increase productivity and benefit your bottom line. Reach out to our team online to discuss your equipment needs today.

 

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