If you run a multi-shift operation and haven’t started learning about lithium-ion forklift batteries yet, you may be surprised to know: A lithium-ion forklift battery can pay for itself in less than three years through:
Single-shift operations that don’t expect to become multi-shift operations are generally better off with cheaper lead-acid batteries. That said, it’s worth doing the math.
Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of lead-acid forklift batteries versus lithium-ion forklift batteries. Short on time? We can help you run the numbers and quickly decide which option is right for you. Contact us online or by phone at 844-LILLYCO (1-844-545-5926).
If you’re debating whether to buy an internal combustion (IC) forklift vs. battery-powered forklift, you might want to read our free Forklift Buyer’s Guide first.
Nearly two-thirds of all forklifts sold in the U.S. are electric, and 7-10% use a lithium-ion battery. That may not seem like much, but five or six years ago, that percentage was zero.
Experts speculate we're in a big transition period away from lead-acid batteries towards lithium-ion. A recent article from Forklift Action notes:
The benefits of lithium vs. lead-acid batteries have been tested and proven by major companies across all industries ( logistics and 3PL, retail, manufacturing, paper and packaging, metals, lumber, food and beverage, cold storage, medical supplies distribution, etc. Industry experts are speculating about the growth rate… but all agree that the adoption of lithium will continue to accelerate, similar to what we see in the passenger EV market (enabled by similar lithium technology). By 2028, the lithium segment may constitute 48% of all new forklift batteries.
Let’s start with the standard forklift battery everyone knows: lead-acid. You may have also heard them called flooded lead-acid or wet cell batteries.
If you buy an electric forklift, it will come with a lead-acid battery by default. This type of forklift battery costs significantly less than lithium-ion. But the lower purchase price comes with long-term expenses: weekly maintenance and (for multi-shift operations) a dedicated space for battery charging.
Approximately once a week, lead-acid forklift batteries must be cleaned and watered. This requires a special watering system, safety equipment and properly trained personnel.
Lead-Acid Forklift Battery Pros:
Lead-Acid Forklift Battery Cons:
Recently, a major equipment manufacturer discovered they could save $1 million+ per year by switching to lithium-ion. Wondering if your business could uncover massive cost savings like this? Try this simple experiment:
Add up your labor and battery costs and compare to what you would have spent on lithium-ion batteries (feel free to contact us for pricing). You may find those “cheap” lead-acid batteries cost a lot more in the long run.
You don't need to add in labor costs for lithium-ion forklift batteries because once they get installed in the truck, that's pretty much it. Lithium-ion batteries are virtually maintenance-free.
Lithium-Ion Forklift Battery Pros:
Lithium-ion batteries can be opportunity charged during breaks without harming the battery. Also, lithium-ion batteries recharge three times faster than lead-acid batteries. Bonus: you don't have to wait for a lithium-ion battery to cool down.
Other benefits include:
Lithium-Ion Forklift Battery Cons:
Generally speaking, a lithium-ion forklift battery will pay for itself within 3-5 years. A multi-shift operation will recoup costs much faster through:
Converting to lithium-ion is extremely easy. We’ve helped dozens of businesses across the Mid-South reduce operating costs by making the switch.
Our experienced and friendly forklift experts can help you choose the right forklift battery for your operation. Just give us a call at 844-LILLYCO (1-844-545-5926) or contact us online. You can also visit us at one of our 13 locations across the Mid-South.
Arkansas - Jonesboro
Alabama - Birmingham, Dothan, Irondale, Madison, Mobile, and Montgomery
Mississippi - Tupelo and Richland
Tennessee - Jackson, Kingsport, Knoxville, and Memphis
Further Reading:
When to Buy an Electric vs. LP Gas Forklift
Forklift Battery Basics: What You Need to Know
How to Move a Forklift With a Dead Battery - 3 Options