There are several different types of used forklifts available on the market. This article covers some of the major differences to look for when shopping for used lifts.

Choosing Which Type of Used Forklift to Purchase

One of the biggest factors in deciding which type of forklift to purchase is the type of fuel that the lift will use. There are a variety of used forklifts for sale all with different fuel needs. For instance, diesel, electric and compressed gas are the three major types of forklifts on the market. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and the availability of fuel.

Diesel and Compressed Gas

Diesel is the most traditional type of forklift around. Diesel fuel is generally longer lasting and easier to use than either electric or compressed gas. It provides more power than other types of fuel and is very reliable over the years. Unfortunately, keeping diesel fuel on site can be costly and take up a lot of space, and burning diesel in an enclosed area is not safe, which may limit your options.

Compressed Gas is the more modern version of fuel for internal combustion forklift engines. It comes in both Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) forms. The most popular brands of forklifts such as Komatsu and Toyota offer lifts that use both types of gas. These types of gas provide less down time because refueling is fast and simple. They are generally considered safer than other types of fuel, and refueling stations take up less space than the other alternatives.

Electric

Electric forklifts are perfect for small spaces and lighter work. They typically have a longer lifespan than any other type of lift, which is helpful when shopping for used equipment. The biggest downside of electric lifts is the amount of time needed for charging, and the cost of replacing batteries if they fail. In addition, electric lifts are not suitable for outdoor work, especially in rain or other inclement weather.

Buying Used

Choosing the right used forklift will depend on how you intend to use it and what kind of space you have. Knowing the different types of fuel will help you determine what option will best suit your warehouse space.