Electric vs. propane forklifts: how to compare
Compare electric and propane forklift requirements for the workplace, charging or refuelling, duty cycle and total ownership cost.
Read the guideDiesel forklifts in Canada.
Prepare an outdoor forklift brief with load size, terrain, duty cycle and service requirements clearly defined.
Diesel forklifts are a consideration for suitable outdoor handling applications. The choice should start with the load and site conditions rather than an engine preference. Yard surfaces, turning space, slopes, weather exposure and the truck’s rated configuration all affect the equipment required.
Describe the yard, not just the load
Tell the supplier whether the route is paved, compacted gravel or uneven ground. Include gradients, potholes, standing water and transitions into trailers or buildings. A conventional pneumatic-tyre forklift is not automatically a rough-terrain machine.
Check capacity in the quoted configuration
Long, bulky or attachment-handled loads can change the required rating. Provide load dimensions, centre of gravity where known, lift height and attachment details. Ask for the applicable capacity information for the exact truck, mast and attachment combination.
Plan for service and operating conditions
Clarify maintenance support, parts supply and any cold-weather starting or storage requirements. Discuss exhaust, noise and site restrictions with the people responsible for the workplace. Enclosed work requires a separate suitability and exposure assessment.
Answers before you buy
A few good questions.
Need to talk through your application? Send us your equipment brief.
Is a diesel forklift the same as a rough-terrain forklift?
No. Diesel describes the power source. Rough-terrain suitability depends on the specific machine design and manufacturer’s approved operating conditions.
What should I include in a diesel forklift enquiry?
Include the maximum load and dimensions, lift height, ground surface, gradients, duty cycle, location and attachment requirements. Photos or a site assessment may be requested later.
Keep comparing.
Forklift capacity, load centre and lift height
Understand why a forklift’s headline capacity is only the starting point when specifying loads, mast height and attachments.
Read the guideMeasure your aisle, mast clearance and racking
Prepare a warehouse layout brief with clear aisle width, door heights, pallet dimensions and the highest required placement.
Read the guideA better brief. A clearer next step.
Request a quoteYour next forklift starts here.
Tell us what you need to lift, where you work and when you need it. We’ll start with your requirements.