Internal combustion (IC) forklifts

Jeremy Sacco
BuyerZone.com Editorial Staff

Internal combustion (IC) forklifts burn fuel in engines similar to automobile engines. They’re the most common choice for outdoor use: electric forklifts can’t be safely used in the rain. In addition, only IC forklifts are capable of handling the largest loads – if you require greater than 15,000 lbs capacity, you definitely need an internal combustion engine.

IC forklifts can run on gasoline, diesel fuel, liquid propane, or compressed natural gas (CNG). Operating costs are generally highest for gasoline and lowest for diesel, with propane and CNG somewhere in the middle. The choice is often made based on existing vehicles and equipment: if you already have diesel vehicles and fuel storage, it’s best to go with diesel forklifts as well.

One of the main advantages IC forklifts provide is the ability to be refueled on the fly: simply fill it up at a gas pump or load a new propane canister on and your forklift is ready to continue working in no time. They are cheaper to buy than electric forklifts, but cost more per hour to run.

IC forklifts also stand up to certain types of misuse better than electric lifts – specifically, using a forklift to push or tow loads, instead of lifting and driving – and usually have better acceleration and top speeds. In large outdoor work sites, this can be an advantage.

Electric Forklift Specifications
Maximum available capacity	35,000 lbs. or more
Power source	Gasoline, diesel fuel, liquid propane gas, or compressed natural gas engine
Costs	Lower purchase priceHigher operating costs
Best used	Outdoors (Propane: Indoors or Outdoors)
Typical Applications	Distribution centers, construction, lumberyards
Refueling time	5 to 15 minutes