Why Commercial Propane is the Preferred Fuel for Forklifts

Propane is an efficient source of energy for many workplace applications, including forklifts. Although other fuels, like gasoline, diesel, and electric, may be best for certain uses, many business owners prefer propane forklifts for their efficiency, versatility, low fuel costs, and other benefits. With propane-powered forklifts, you’ll ensure that your work gets done, even in emergencies and power outages. 

At McCraw Oil and Propane, we’ll always be honest about what fuel is best for your application. In this blog, we’ll discuss where forklifts powered by electric, gasoline, or diesel present an advantage, and where propane makes the most sense. We’ll also discuss how we support you as a reliable propane provider for all your forklift needs, providing excellent service day-to-day and in emergencies. It’s our pleasure to ensure your business operates with top-notch fuel and expert care.

At McCraw Oil and Propane, our service goes beyond typical fuel delivery. We provide dependable help, personalized solutions, and unmatched peace of mind to customers across Texas. With over fifty years of providing propane services, here’s why our clients trust us:

• Remote Tank Monitoring: We track your propane levels in real time, so you never run out unexpectedly, even in emergencies
• Automated Deliveries: Enjoy hassle-free refills with delivery schedules based on your actual usage rates
• Emergency Deliveries: When you need fuel the most, we’re there for you. Emergency refills are available 24/7 at no extra cost
• Customized Business Solutions: From tank size to refill frequency, we tailor services to fit your operational needs
• On-Site Refueling: We bring propane directly to your job site or location for equipment, generators, and more
• High Safety Standards: Our certified technicians follow strict safety protocols to ensure delivery is safe and efficient
• Flexible Pricing Plans: Choose from fixed rates, price caps, and volume discounts to help maintain consistent energy costs for your business
• Reliable Customer Support: Our knowledgeable, local team is always ready to help with scheduling, questions, and changes
• Local Expertise: As a Texas-based provider, we understand your needs and respond quickly when it matters most
• Trusted Quality & Service: With McCraw, you receive a consistent fuel supply and service you can count on year-round

Propane is a versatile solution and one of the best fuels for forklifts for a variety of reasons. It provides a great blend of power, efficiency, and cost savings that’s hard to beat. Propane forklifts provide consistent and reliable performance that can handle heavy loads and keep your business moving, both indoors and out.

Propane-fueled forklifts are very efficient, using less energy overall compared to diesel or electric alternatives. A single propane tank can power a forklift for a full shift or more, boosting productivity, decreasing downtime, causing fewer interruptions during the workday, and helping you save money.

One major advantage of propane forklifts is the consistent power output. Unlike electric models, which can have poorer performance as the battery drains, propane produces consistent power until the fuel runs out. Propane-fueled forklifts are ideal for heavy lifting, continuous use, or demanding environments where consistent performance matters most.

Downtime is costly. With propane engines, there’s no waiting for a battery to recharge. Instead, refueling is as easy as swapping out a propane cylinder. Propane cylinder exchange only takes a few minutes and allows your team to keep working with minimal interruption, making propane ideal for multi-shift operations with seamless transitions.

Propane forklifts are generally more affordable upfront than their electric, gasoline, or diesel counterparts. Beyond the initial investment, operating costs remain low because propane fuel prices tend to be stable, and the fuel systems require less maintenance over time, resulting in lower costs and minimal downtime.

Propane gas burns clean, unlike gasoline or diesel, producing fewer emissions, greenhouse gases, and air pollutants. This is better for the environment and a safer choice overall, especially for indoor settings or facilities looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Due to its clean-burning nature and powerful performance, propane can be safely used both indoors and outdoors. This eliminates the need for different types of forklifts for many industries.

Propane tanks are compact, portable, and can be safely stored on-site with minimal infrastructure. Large fuel tanks and charging stations can be complex. Propane systems are much simpler and scalable.

In short, propane forklifts offer a smart combination of efficiency, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, making them a solid investment for businesses of all sizes.

While propane is a great option for forklifts, electric forklifts can be useful in certain operations, especially when air quality, noise, and long-term maintenance are key factors. But like any equipment choice, there are trade-offs to consider.

• Environmentally Friendly: Electric forklifts produce zero emissions at the point of use, making them ideal for indoor environments where air quality regulations are strict or where employees work in close quarters
• Quieter Operation: Electric forklifts run almost silently compared to propane or diesel models, helping reduce noise levels in busy warehouses or distribution centers
• Lower Maintenance Costs: With fewer moving parts and no internal combustion engine, electric forklifts require less routine maintenance and have fewer lifetime service costs

• Long Recharge Times: One of the biggest limitations is downtime. A forklift battery can take several hours to fully recharge, which can slow down operations or require backup equipment for multi-shift facilities
• Charging Infrastructure Required: Charging stations must be installed. This requires upfront investment and takes up valuable floor space in your facility. Electric-powered forklifts also need proper ventilation and compliance with electrical codes
• Higher Initial Cost: Electric forklifts typically have a higher purchase price than propane models, which can be a barrier for smaller businesses or those with tight budgets
• Power Loss Over Time: Unlike propane forklifts that deliver consistent power, electric lifts may see reduced performance as battery levels drop, especially in more demanding applications

Electric forklifts are an excellent fit for clean, quiet indoor operations with lighter-duty needs and predictable usage patterns. For high-volume or around-the-clock work, however, you may find propane offers more flexibility.

Gasoline-powered forklifts provide strong, reliable performance and are capable of handling jobs across a range of environments. However, while they have their place, they may not be best for every application or business, especially when indoor use is involved.

• Strong Performance: Gas forklifts offer solid horsepower, torque, and higher speeds, making them well-suited for heavy-duty lifting and outdoor use where power and responsiveness matter
• Versatile Use: These machines operate in nearly any environment—rough terrain, loading docks, outdoor yards, and construction sites—without being dependent on charging stations or battery life
• Better Rear Visibility: Without a bulky tank on the back, gas forklifts typically offer slightly improved rear visibility, which can enhance operator awareness and safety

• Harmful Emissions: One of the biggest drawbacks of gas forklifts is their exhaust. They emit carbon monoxide and other pollutants, making them unsafe or heavily restricted for use indoors unless specialized ventilation is in place
• Higher Operating Costs: Gasoline can be more expensive and less stable in price compared to propane. Combined with more frequent maintenance, this can drive up long-term operating costs
• Not Environmentally Friendly: In addition to indoor air quality concerns, gasoline engines contribute more to overall emissions and environmental impact than electric or propane models

Gasoline forklifts are often the right choice for rugged, outdoor applications or jobs that require high mobility and immediate fuel availability. But for indoor environments or businesses focused on cleaner, more cost-stable energy, other fuel types may offer better long-term value.

Diesel-powered forklifts are built for strength and endurance and are often used in the most demanding environments. They offer unmatched power, but they’re not without drawbacks, especially for businesses that operate indoors or need tight maneuverability.

• Maximum Power and Torque: Diesel forklifts are the most powerful of all fuel types, delivering the torque needed for lifting heavy loads and handling steep inclines or tough surfaces
• Built for the Long Haul: Known for their durability, diesel engines typically have a long lifespan when properly maintained, making them a reliable investment for high-use outdoor operations
• Great on Rough Terrain: With their robust design and power output, diesel-powered forklifts are ideal for uneven, outdoor surfaces like construction sites, lumber yards, and ports.

• Not for Indoor Use: Diesel-powered forklifts produce significant exhaust emissions, including harmful particulates and gases, making them unsuitable and unsafe for indoor environments
• Poor Maneuverability: Diesel-powered models are usually bigger and less agile, which can be difficult in tight warehouse aisles or small workspaces
• Higher Operating and Maintenance Costs: While durable, diesel engines require more intensive maintenance, and diesel fuel can be expensive, especially with price fluctuations
• High Upfront Cost: Diesel forklifts often come with a higher purchase price compared to propane or electric alternatives

Diesel forklifts are a strong choice for businesses that need high power, long shifts, and outdoor performance. However, other fuel types may be more practical and cost-effective for indoor environments or operations focused on efficiency and flexibility.

Each forklift fuel type has its place—propane-powered forklifts offer steady power, fast refueling, minimal emissions, and versatility; electric is clean and quiet but limited by charging needs; gasoline brings flexibility but higher emissions; and diesel delivers unmatched power for outdoor work, with higher costs and no indoor use. The right choice depends on your environment, workload, and budget.

At McCraw Oil and Propane, we make fueling simple. From remote tank monitoring to on-site refueling and flexible pricing, we help businesses run efficiently and safely, with greater productivity. Contact us today for expert guidance in picking the right fuel for your forklifts.