Propane-powered vs Electric Forklifts

Written on: June 26, 2023

Know the Pros and Cons to Make the Best Choice for Your Business

In a challenging economic climate, it’s important to manage costs while maintaining the quality and service your customers expect. It’s true for everything from office supplies to major equipment upgrades. If you work with forklifts regularly, you may be looking for the best way to balance cost and performance as you update your fleet. Other than for extra-heavy-duty jobs and rugged outdoor terrain, your best options are between propane-powered forklifts and electric. Both options offer a cleaner-burning alternative to diesel-powered equipment. And, as we’ve seen recently, electric rates are rising due to increased demand, which levels the field compared to propane costs that can fluctuate with the market. Depending on how and where you operate forklifts—and what other equipment you operate, there are distinct benefits and downsides to either type of forklift.

Here’s our guide to the pros and cons of propane-powered forklifts vs electric forklifts.

Pros of Electric Forklifts:

• Low maintenance costs because there are fewer moving parts
• Zero emissions, so good for indoor spaces.
• Very quiet to operate
• No need to store fuel on site
• Lower center of balance, better turn ratios and better rear-view visibility

Cons of Electric Forklifts

• Not ideal for outdoor/wet operations
• Not ideal for steady/constant operation
• More downtime for charging—8 hours plus cool-down time
• Batteries lose power as they drain, and drain faster with heavier loads
• Expensive up-front costs
• Requires ventilation around charging areas,
• Need to install eyewash stations
• May require upgraded higher-voltage lines

Cons of Propane Forklifts

• Require regular maintenance—tune-ups, oil changes, etc.
• Require designated area and racks for cylinder storage
• Emit small amounts of carbon dioxide, so not ideal for extended use in unventilated spaces
• Noisier than electric models

Pros of Propane Forklifts

• Operate at 100% power as long as there’s propane in the cylinder
• Extremely efficient compared to
• Replacing cylinders takes minutes, less downtime
• Better at handling heavier loads and more capable when it comes to inclines.
• Propane is versatile, and can power other equipment you may use besides forklifts: welding equipment, commercial mowers, asphalt heaters, pressure washers, small cranes, water pumps, floor buffers and more.
• Longer equipment life overall

The Convenience of Propane

Warehouse management, construction, and industrial facilities rely on forklifts. Let our team show you why propane-fueled forklifts will keep your operation running smoothly with minimal downtime. Beeline’s commercial cylinder exchange program ensures you always have full tanks on site and ready to go. Our expert team is here to support you and your business. We work with you to evaluate your needs and set you up with sturdy, safe storage cages.

From safety training to reliable delivery service, Beeline’s commercial propane team has the expertise to understand your specific needs and tailor a program that will grow with your business—and help your business grow, thanks to the efficiency and power or propane.

Contact us today to learn about how our propane forklift cylinder exchange can help your business!