A diesel forklift truck is a workhorse for handling heavy loads in commercial settings. Diesel forklift trucks are considered one of the most important pieces of equipment in the material handling industry. But instead of indoors, they are more suitable for outdoors as they produce fumes that escape quickly in the external environment. Diesel-powered forklift trucks are the best option for handling bulky materials in regions facing extreme weather conditions.

The ability to work in harsh environments makes diesel-powered forklift trucks an excellent investment for warehouse owners who have a limited budget for forklift trucks. Many warehouse owners prefer diesel-fueled forklift trucks as they can easily lift heavy products and won’t take much time to take the products to designated locations. In addition, diesel trucks are simple to use and easy to get hold of, making them preferable for warehouse owners. 

The warehouse owners look for trucks that can become suitable investments and help them improve their productivity. Hence, diesel forklift trucks are exactly what they want for lifting their products. The diesel-powered forklift trucks have exceptional power and endurance, which makes them lift and carry heavy materials effortlessly. This is something which warehouse owners look for when they invest in diesel-powered forklift trucks. The diesel forklift trucks eliminate the need for manual labor and are able to complete the loading, unloading, or relocating tasks for all types of materials in a quick time.

Their engine doesn’t get affected easily and presents an excellent capacity to work for extended durations. There are many other reasons why warehouse owners prefer diesel-powered forklift trucks to other types of forklift trucks. Here we will discuss a few advantages and disadvantages of using a diesel-powered forklift truck. If you are a warehouse owner or are planning to be one, make your decisions wisely after going through the detailed analysis shared below. 

See related: How to choose appropriate lift truck.

Advantages of using Diesel-Powered Forklift Trucks

Diesel-powered forklift trucks have various qualities that make them a better option than other forklift trucks. These features make them preferable amongst warehouse or factory owners. Some of the standout benefits of using a diesel forklift truck are as follows: – 

  • Carrying Capacity: Diesel-powered forklift trucks have an incredible capacity to carry heavy and bulky materials easily. They can lift materials effortlessly and take them to their place without any issues. Diesel forklift trucks can work in all types of environmental conditions with relative ease. 
  • Lower fuel cost: Diesel-powered forklift trucks require less fuel to work, making them cost-efficient. The fuel expenses decrease without affecting the efficiency of the workers at the warehouse. The materials are lifted and carried at better speeds with lesser fuel consumption which helps the warehouse owners improve their profitability. 
  • Excellent engine lifespan: The lifespan of the engine of a diesel forklift truck is much longer compared to other types of forklift trucks like LPG and electric forklifts. The engine of diesel-powered forklift trucks doesn’t deteriorate easily, even after extended usage in harsh weather conditions. Also, unlike electric forklift trucks, diesel-powered forklift trucks do not require overnight charging and can be readily used in the case of an emergency. 
  • Have higher torque: Diesel forklift trucks are considered to have higher torque than other forklift trucks. Due to this quality, diesel forklift trucks have better performance on gradients and have greater power for scooping aggregates and towing. This feature of diesel-powered forklift trucks makes them different and preferable to other types of forklift trucks.
  • Can be used anytime: Unlike electric forklift trucks, which need charging all night, diesel forklift trucks can be used anytime and anywhere. Diesel trucks, as stated above, can be used even in harsh weather conditions at any time of the day. They do not need a charging facility to be readily available for them to be in working condition. Even if the fuel is about to end, the diesel forklift will not stop suddenly like the gas forklift trucks. It will give a low fuel warning in advance, providing the operator with enough time to refuel.
  • Best for outside work: Diesel-powered forklift trucks are considered the best for outdoor work as they can work in extreme weather conditions with considerable ease. No matter the weather or environment, diesel forklift trucks can work effortlessly in any situation. This is one of the main reasons why warehouse owners prefer investing in diesel-powered forklift trucks. There is no need to worry about operating issues when diesel forklift trucks are doing their job. 

Challenges of Using a Diesel-Powered Forklift truck

Using a diesel-powered forklift truck also presents some challenges to the owner. Here are a few challenges experienced by several warehouse owners who have invested in diesel forklift trucks. 

  • Not suitable for indoors: Diesel-powered forklift trucks are not meant for indoor work. This is because they emit high volumes of chemical fumes, which harm the environment. While outdoors, these fumes scatter in the environment without any concern, but indoors, it can be a serious health issue as the workers will be breathing in these fumes that can affect their health adversely. 
  • Uses fossil fuels: Diesel-powered forklift trucks use fossil fuels for the engine. Fossil fuels emit fumes when used, which can be harmful to the environment. This makes diesel-powered forklift trucks less suitable for certain environments. Especially indoors, the use of fossil fuels can be extremely hazardous. This is the reason why some warehouse owners don’t prefer diesel-powered forklift trucks. 
  • Requires more space: Diesel forklift trucks are huge in size and need more space to move around than other types of forklift trucks. Several warehouse owners prefer other forklift options than investing in diesel trucks because they require more storage and movement space and cannot work in constricted places. 
  • A costly investment: Diesel forklift trucks require considerable investment at the time of purchase. They are more expensive than gas forklift trucks and require careful consideration before investing. Also, fuel prices play a crucial role as the machine’s working directly depends on the fuel price. 

Diesel-powered forklift trucks have been gaining in popularity steadily worldwide. Many warehouse and factory owners prefer these trucks for their efficacy and versatility. If you are considering investing in diesel-powered forklift trucks, it is imperative that you undertake a detailed analysis before making a decision.