Indoor Vs Outdoor Forklift

If you’re renting or buying a forklift for your business, it may be tempting to base your decision on price, versatility, or power. While these are important factors, the first element of this decision is often whether the forklift will be used indoors, outdoors, or both, because different kinds of forklifts are suitable for different environments. 

Outdoor forklift rental

If you’re renting or buying a forklift for your business, it may be tempting to base your decision on price, versatility, or power. While these are important factors, the first element of this decision is often whether the forklift will be used indoors, outdoors, or both, because different kinds of forklifts are suitable for different environments. 

Outdoor Forklifts

A common fuel source for forklifts is diesel fuel. Diesel forklifts are strong and tough, and can stand rain and snow. They can also handle a variety of terrains. This makes them good for outdoor use. They also emit noxious fumes that foul the air of indoor work spaces such as warehouses. This has led to regulations prohibiting diesel equipment for indoor use. Diesel engines also emit noise which reverberates indoors and can annoy workers, making it harder for them to think and listen. Gasoline forklifts are less noisy, and don’t foul the air as much as diesel models, but they’re still considered outdoor only. They’re also harder to find. 

Indoor Forklifts

Electric forklifts are quiet and clean. This makes them perfect for indoor use. They’re also generally smaller than diesel forklifts, and nimble enough to navigate the tight spaces inside warehouses. They tend to be less waterproof than many other types of forklift, and less suited for the variety of terrain you may have to navigate in outdoor work environments. Electric models are becoming more dominant in the market, and more varied in design, but they’re still considered to be indoor forklifts, generally speaking. If you want an electric model that can be used outdoors, look for an IP code (or “international protection” marking) ending with a 4 or higher, such as IP54. 

Mixed Use

There are other forklift fuel types available that are considered suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. This includes forklifts with LPG (liquid propane) and CNG (condensed natural gas) engines. Since both are internal combustion, they do have emissions, but they’re much safer than diesel and gasoline for indoor use. They’re also quieter, so less annoying and distracting to indoor workers. 

Check Out The Tires

An easy way to differentiate indoor forklifts from outdoor models is by the tires. Indoor forklifts use cushion tires, which are small and smooth. Outdoor forklifts use pneumatic tires, which are large and have tread suitable for outdoor terrain. 

If you’re interested in forklift sales or rentals, come and talk to us at Ring Power Lift Trucks. For 60 years, our locally-owned and operated business has provided superior products and the newest technology in forklifts, exceeding our customers’ expectations. With 14 convenient locations throughout Florida, Ring Power Corporation has become one of the largest Caterpillar® dealers in the Southeastern United States because of our dedication to customer service. Whether you need to buy a new or used forklift, or you’d prefer a short-term or long-term forklift rental, we’re here for you. We also supply forklift parts and service in north and central Florida for every make and model of forklift.  Call 877.544.5438 or visit our website for more information.