1.Operating Environment
When purchasing a forklift, the primary consideration is its operating environment, that is, whether the forklift will be used indoors or outdoors. If the forklift is mainly used outside the warehouse, it is recommended to choose an internal combustion forklift driven by gas, liquid petroleum, or diesel. If the forklift needs to operate in a cold outdoor environment, a gasoline-driven forklift is more suitable. It is particularly important to note that diesel forklifts need to be kept in continuous use and avoid frequent engine shutdowns; frequent starting of the forklift by the user may cause damage to it. In addition, to ensure the performance of diesel forklifts, it is recommended to change the engine oil regularly.
Another type of forklift designed for outdoor operation is driven by liquid petroleum, also known as LP drive, which shares the market with gasoline-fueled forklifts. LP forklifts are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use due to their relatively low exhaust toxicity. Although the fuel costs of LP forklifts are comparable to those of diesel forklifts, the maintenance costs of diesel forklifts are lower. In cold environments, users may equip LP forklifts with protective covers or heaters; if normal operation still cannot be ensured, the LP forklift can be easily converted into a gasoline forklift.

In addition, the outdoor operating environment also affects the choice of tire type. Pneumatic tires are suitable for driving on rough roads, while non-pneumatic tires are suitable for flat and hard outdoor surfaces, as well as most indoor locations.

2.Indoor Warehouse Forklifts
In indoor environments, such as warehouses, electric forklifts exhibit significant advantages. Compared with internal combustion forklifts, their most prominent feature lies in their low noise and pollution-free characteristics. Although the initial purchase cost of electric forklifts is slightly higher, their operating costs are relatively low, mainly because they do not require fuel and do not need to frequently replace components such as engine oil. In addition, the maintenance costs of electric forklifts are also quite economical. For a forklift, during its normal service life, the maintenance cost per hour is only 2 to 6 yuan. Of course, when using electric forklifts, the condition of the battery must be closely monitored, and water level checks and battery protection are also essential.

3.Selection of Forklift Models

When selecting a forklift model, the first consideration is the applicable working scenario and the specific conditions of the warehouse. For example, if the forklift is mainly used for loading and unloading trailers, a front-wheel drive, sit-down counterbalance forklift is a more appropriate choice. In addition, if the forklift needs to shuttle in narrow spaces to load and unload goods onto trailers, special attention should be paid to the "free lift" function, that is, the forks can be raised independently without the mast being raised to meet the operational requirements. At the same time, the width of the warehouse aisle is also a key factor in determining the forklift model. Three-wheeled sit-down forklifts are usually suitable for aisles with a width of at least 10 feet, while four-wheeled forklifts require more spacious space, usually requiring an aisle width of 12 to 13 feet. When operating in narrow aisles, users may prefer to choose reach trucks, which are specially equipped with outrigger brackets that can retract the pallets and are very suitable for operation in aisles about 8 feet wide.

4.Capacity
Capacity is a factor that must be carefully considered when purchasing a forklift. Generally, it is recommended to choose a forklift with a capacity slightly larger than the daily requirement. For example, if the pallet load that needs to be handled frequently is 900KG, it is more advisable to choose a forklift that can carry 1300KG. In addition, when purchasing a forklift for handling flammable or hazardous materials, be sure to carefully check its safety rating. Forklifts of different ratings have different levels of safety. For example, forklifts marked with the E logo may pose a risk of sparking, while forklifts marked with the EE logo are equipped with more safety devices. The safest choice is an EX-rated forklift, which does not contain any metal components that may cause sparking. It is worth noting that diesel forklifts are safer than EX-rated forklifts, especially those diesel forklifts specifically designed for safety, which are usually marked with the DX logo.

5.Trade-off between Price and Efficiency
When purchasing a forklift, price is indeed a factor to be considered, but more importantly, the availability of spare parts and the support of maintenance services. Experts suggest that users should take into account the entire cost during the forklift's service life when evaluating it, rather than just the initial purchase price.
Although used forklifts can serve as backup equipment for auxiliary work in some cases, most experts do not recommend purchasing only one used forklift as the main one. If the user really only needs one forklift and has confirmed that the used forklift is of qualified quality, then purchasing a used forklift is also an option. However, this requires the user to have a comprehensive understanding of the forklift's efficiency, the manufacturer's support, and the prediction of future forklift needs. For savvy users, they will make the best choice based on weighing long-term and short-term benefits.