Why Choose an Electric Forklift? Benefits, Uses & Buying Guide
Electric forklifts have become one of the most popular choices for businesses looking to improve efficiency, reduce operating costs, and create a cleaner working environment. Thanks to advances in battery technology, today’s electric forklifts deliver impressive performance while offering quieter operation and lower maintenance requirements than many internal combustion models.
Whether you’re operating a busy warehouse, distribution centre, or manufacturing facility, an electric forklift could be the ideal solution for your business. This guide explains everything you need to know before investing in a used electric forklift.
What is an Electric Forklift?
An electric forklift is powered by a rechargeable battery rather than a diesel or LPG engine. The battery supplies power to both the drive motor and the hydraulic system, allowing the truck to lift, lower, and transport loads safely and efficiently.
Available in a wide range of capacities and configurations, electric forklifts are suitable for everything from light warehouse duties to demanding industrial applications. Their efficient operation and lower running costs have made them a popular choice for businesses across many sectors.
Where are Electric Forklifts Used?
Electric forklifts are designed primarily for indoor use, where their clean and quiet operation provides a significant advantage. They are commonly used in:
- Warehouses
- Distribution centres
- Manufacturing facilities
- Retail stockrooms
- Food and beverage warehouses
- Pharmaceutical facilities
- Logistics operations
Many electric forklifts can also be used outdoors on smooth, hard surfaces, making them a flexible option for businesses that occasionally work outside.
Benefits of an Electric Forklift
- Zero Exhaust Emissions – One of the biggest advantages of an electric forklift is that it produces no exhaust emissions during operation. This makes it ideal for enclosed environments where air quality is important, helping businesses maintain a cleaner and healthier workplace.
- Lower Running Costs- Electric forklifts are generally more economical to run than engine-powered alternatives. Electricity typically costs less than diesel or LPG, while electric motors contain fewer moving parts, helping to reduce routine maintenance costs over time.
- Quiet Operation- Electric forklifts operate much more quietly than diesel or LPG models. Reduced noise levels improve working conditions for operators while creating a more comfortable environment for everyone working nearby.
- Smooth and Precise Handling – Electric drive systems provide responsive acceleration and precise lifting control, allowing operators to position loads accurately and work efficiently throughout the day.
- Reduced Maintenance – Without an internal combustion engine, electric forklifts eliminate the need for engine oil changes, fuel filters, and many of the servicing requirements associated with diesel and LPG trucks. This can help reduce maintenance costs and minimise downtime.
Are There Any Limitations?
While electric forklifts offer many advantages, they’re not always the best solution for every application.
Battery charging requires planning, particularly for businesses operating multiple shifts. Businesses should ensure they have suitable charging facilities and allow enough time for batteries to recharge between periods of use.
Electric forklifts also perform best on smooth, level surfaces. Although many models can work outdoors, rough terrain and harsh weather conditions may make diesel or LPG forklifts a more suitable choice.
Choosing the Right Electric Forklift
Selecting the right electric forklift depends on how and where it will be used.
Before making a purchase, consider:
- Required lifting capacity
- Maximum lift height
- Typical load sizes
- Aisle widths
- Daily operating hours
- Available charging facilities
- Indoor and outdoor usage
- Any specialist attachments you may require
Taking these factors into account will help you choose a forklift that meets both your current and future operational needs.
Buying a Used Electric Forklift
Investing in a used electric forklift is an excellent way to improve productivity while keeping costs under control. A well-maintained used forklift can provide many years of reliable service, making it a practical solution for businesses of all sizes.
Maintaining an Electric Forklift
Routine servicing is essential for keeping an electric forklift operating safely and efficiently.
Regular maintenance should include:
- Checking battery charge levels
- Inspecting battery cables and connections
- Monitoring tyre condition
- Checking hydraulic fluid levels
- Inspecting forks for wear or damage
- Testing brakes and steering
- Examining the mast and lift chains
- Keeping the truck clean and free from debris
Following a planned maintenance schedule will help maximise reliability, extend the life of your forklift, and reduce unexpected downtime.
Why Choose North West Forktrucks?
At North West Forktrucks, we specialise in supplying quality used electric forklifts from leading manufacturers. Every truck is thoroughly inspected before sale, giving you confidence that you’re investing in reliable equipment that’s ready to perform.
Alongside our carefully selected stock, we also offer nationwide delivery, flexible finance options, servicing, and ongoing support to help keep your business moving.
Find the Right Electric Forklift
Electric forklifts offer an efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly solution for modern material handling. Their quiet operation, lower running costs, and reduced maintenance requirements make them an excellent choice for warehouses, distribution centres, and many industrial environments.
If you’re looking for a quality used electric forklift, browse our latest stock or get in touch with the team at North West Forktrucks. We’ll be happy to help you find the right truck for your operation and budget.
──── Latest Stock
View Our Electric Forklifts
Browse our latest selection of used Electric forklifts below, or view our full stock here.
2016 CAT Lift Trucks EP18PNT
£4,950.00
Capacity: 1800 kg, Hours: 7489, Lift Height: 4750mm, Mast: Triplex
2012 CAT Lift Trucks EP20N
£4,950.00
Capacity: 2000 kg, Hours: 2902, Lift Height: 4750mm, Mast: Triplex
2005 Toyota 7FB30
£3,950.00
Capacity: 3000 kg, Hours: 27611, Lift Height: 4500mm, Mast: Standard
2014 Unicarriers AS1N1L15T
£3,450.00
Capacity: 1500 kg, Hours: 13577, Lift Height: 3700mm, Mast: Standard
2011 Yale ERP35VL
£6,250.00
Capacity: 3500 kg, Hours: 8247, Lift Height: 4915mm, Mast: Triplex
2011 Toyota 8FBET18
£4,450.00
Capacity: 1800 kg, Hours: 8533, Lift Height: 4300mm, Mast: Triplex
2013 Linde E20PL-01
£4,950.00
Capacity: 2000 kg, Hours: 9198, Lift Height: 4600mm, Mast: Triplex
2014 Toyota 7FBMF40
£6,950.00
Capacity: 4000 kg, Hours: 3127, Lift Height: 3300mm, Mast: Standard