If you're looking for guidance on buying your next (or maybe even your first) forklift, you're in the right place. This guide and its accompanying forklift compatibility quiz will simplify the process, helping you make an informed decision. While purchasing a forklift can seem straightforward, there are some nuances that can trip buyers up. With countless forklift options available, choosing the wrong one can lead to inefficiencies, unnecessary costs, and even safety risks.
That’s why we created this forklift buying guide—to cut through the noise and help guide you to make the right decision for your business. Whether you run a small family-owned shop or a large-scale warehouse operation, understanding what to look for in a forklift will save you time, money, and frustration.
I’m Pax, the owner of Spot-On Warehouse Solutions, and forklifts have been my life for over 40 years. As a second-generation forklift professional, I’ve seen the industry evolve, and I’ve witnessed the mistakes buyers make time and time again — sometimes because of misleading sales tactics or a lack of awareness about forklift truck purchase best practices.
Key Takeaways
Take your time when buying a forklift – Rushing into a forklift truck purchase can lead to costly mistakes. Carefully evaluate warranty policies, dealer reputation, and machine specifications.
Not all forklifts are the same – Make sure you ask the right questions and clearly understand your specific needs, including lifting capacity, forklift clearance height, and aisle width.
Dealership service matters more than brand – A reputable dealer with strong customer service & experience is often more valuable than simply choosing a well-known brand.
Consider all purchase options – Buying, renting, or rent-to-buy each have their pros and cons depending on your business needs and budget.
Fuel type impacts performance and cost – Electric, LPG, and diesel forklifts each have ideal use cases. Choose the one that best suits your working environment.
Used forklifts can be a smart choice, but be cautious – If budget is a concern, used forklifts can be an option, but make sure to check their condition, warranty, and expected lifespan.
Free forklift compatibility quiz - Get personalised suggestions to fit your requirements in under 3-minutes with our simple quiz.
Table of Contents
-
The Hidden Pitfalls of Buying a Forklift
- How This Guide (and Our Free Forklift Compatibility Quiz) Will Help You
- Take the Quiz Here
- Critical Elements to Consider When Purchasing a Forklift
- Main Types of Forklifts
- Fuel Types and Their Best Applications
- Choosing the Right Brand and Dealer
- Key Differences Between Buying New and Used Forklifts
- Purchase Options: Buying, Renting, and Rent-to-Buy
- What to Look for When Test Driving or Demoing a Forklift
-
Delivery Times to Expect When Purchasing a Forklift
- Walk—Don’t Run When Purchasing a Forklift
- Final Thoughts: Get Expert Advice Before You Buy
The Hidden Pitfalls of Buying a Forklift
One of the biggest misconceptions in the forklift industry is that any forklift truck will do the job. But forklifts come in different sizes, capacities, and configurations, and not every truck is suited for every application.
For example, buyers often say, “I just need to move a standard pallet.” But what does standard mean for you?
- Are you moving fridges, steel, fruit, liquids, or paper?
- Do you have tight warehouse aisles that require a specific forklift clearance height?
- Are you operating indoors, outdoors, or in mixed environments?
Many buyers assume that a bigger forklift is better— “I have a one-tonne pallet to move, so I’ll get a three-tonne forklift just to be safe.” However, bigger doesn’t always mean better. Larger forklifts are heavier, bulkier, and may be difficult to manoeuvre in tight spaces.
To maximise your chances of selecting the right forklift, take a step back and approach the purchase with an open mind. Forget any preconceived ideas, absorb the insights in this guide, and be critical throughout the decision-making process. Every work environment and use case is different, and this guide—along with our free quiz—will provide unbiased insights into the pros and cons of different features and specifications. By the end, you'll have the clarity you need to make an informed decision.
How This Guide (and Our Free Forklift Compatibility Quiz) Will Help You
This guide + quiz will help you select a forklift with confidence by covering:
✅ The real factors that matter when buying a forklift—capacity, forklift clearance height, fuel type, and application.
✅ Why choosing a forklift based on price alone can be a costly mistake
✅ The different types of forklifts and which ones are best suited for your industry
✅ The different fuel types and their ideal use cases
✅ Funding options: Should you buy, rent, or rent-to-buy?
Still unsure which forklift is best for you? We’ve created a free forklift compatibility quiz to take the guesswork out of your decision. In under 3 minutes, the quiz can provide you with potential forklifts suitable for your application. Sure, it may not be perfect, but that's where our expert team can answer any questions you may have and recommend with certainty that you've found the perfect forklift solution.
Should You Take the Quiz Now or Keep Reading?
If you know your lifting weight capacity and maximum lift height, you’re ready to take the quiz and receive personalised recommendations instantly.
However, if you're still unsure about these details or want a complete understanding of the forklift buying process, keep reading—this guide will walk you through everything you need to consider before making your decision.
Let’s dive in and find the best forklift to buy for your business!
Critical Elements to Consider When Buying a Forklift
Lifting Capacity
The most important factor in choosing a forklift is its capacity—the maximum weight it can safely lift. In Australia, this is measured in kilograms (kg), while American-made forklifts use pounds (lbs).
Forklift capacity is determined by physics—similar to a seesaw—where the further a load extends from the forklift’s centre, the more effort is required to lift it. Most standard forklifts have a load centre of 500 to 600mm, meaning the rated capacity applies within that range. If your load extends beyond this point, the lifting capacity decreases significantly.
When viewing product pages of forklfits, "lifting capacity" or "load capacity" refers to the maximum weight a forklift can handle at its rated load centre. Common capacities for counterbalance forklifts include:
- 1.8T, 2.5T, 3.5T, 4.5T, 5T, and 7T for general warehouse and industrial use.
- 10T, 12T, 16T, and higher for heavy-duty applications like ports and construction.
Always check the load capacity plate on a forklift to ensure it meets your operational needs.
Lift Height
How high do you need to lift? Precision matters—don’t guess, measure. Trust us when say that every millimetre makes a difference.
For example, if your top beam is 6.0m, a 6.0m lift height won’t be enough to remove a pallet from the racking—you’ll need at least 6.2m or higher to ensure proper clearance.
If you're working with racking systems, it's crucial to know both your top beam height and the weight of your heaviest pallet at that height. Many forklifts experience a reduced lifting capacity at maximum height due to stability limits, so choosing the right model is essential.
Collapsed Height or Clearance
If your forklift needs to enter containers or pass through low-clearance areas, check the collapsed height to ensure it fits without restrictions.
The collapsed height is when the forklift is set into its lowest position.
Aisle Width & Manoeuvrability
Your warehouse layout determines the turning radius and manoeuvrability required. If your aisles are too narrow for a standard forklift to turn and stack properly, you may need a narrow-aisle forklift or a reach truck. Be sure to measure from upright to upright (steel to steel) rather than from pallet to pallet, as pallet overhang can lead to inaccurate aisle width estimations. Different machines have different aisle width requirements.
Fuel Type
Forklifts run on different power sources:
- Electric Forklifts – Ideal for indoor use, quieter, and produce zero emissions. With new technology can now run outside too!
- LPG (Gas) Forklifts – Suitable for outdoor use and ventilated indoor use.
- Diesel Forklifts – Best for heavy-duty outdoor applications where you have a fuel bowser.
Certain industries have strict health and safety regulations—for example, food production facilities may prohibit LPG or diesel forklifts due to emissions. We'll explore fuel types more thoroughly later in the blog post.
Tyre Type
Your working environment determines the best tyre type:
- Pneumatic Tyres – Designed for rough, uneven outdoor terrain.
- Cushion Tyres – Suited for indoor warehouses with smooth concrete flooring.
- Solid (Puncture-Proof) Tyres – Provide a balance for both indoor and outdoor use.
Ergonomics & Operator Comfort
A forklift operator’s comfort can directly impact productivity. Features such as adjustable seats, clear visibility, intuitive controls, and smooth suspension make a big difference in reducing operator fatigue.
Maintenance & Servicing
Ongoing maintenance costs should be factored into your decision. Consider:
- Availability of spare parts
- Ease of servicing
- Manufacturer support
Choosing a forklift with low maintenance requirements and easy-to-source parts will save you money in the long run.
Main Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are designed for specific tasks, and their function is often reflected in their name. Understanding the different types will help you choose the best option for your needs.
Order Picker
An order picker is designed for retrieving individual items from warehouse shelves. These forklifts allow operators to be lifted along with the load, making them ideal for single or multi-picking operations.
Stock Picker
A stock picker is similar to an order picker but is designed specifically for handling larger stock items. If your warehouse requires frequent picking of bulkier goods, this may be the right choice.
Counterbalance Forklift
A counterbalance forklift features a weight at the rear to offset the load being lifted at the front. These are among the most common forklifts and are used for general material handling both indoors and outdoors.
Walkie Stacker
A walkie stacker is a pedestrian-operated forklift designed for stacking pallets in warehouses. It’s a great option for narrow spaces where a larger forklift wouldn’t fit.
Walkie Reach
A walkie reach forklift is similar to a walkie stacker but has the added capability of extending its forks forward to reach pallets. This is useful for handling deeper racking setups.
Pallet Truck
A pallet truck, also known as a pallet jack or electric pallet jack, is a simple machine designed for moving pallets from one location to another. These are available in both manual and powered versions.
Fuel Types and Best Applications
Understanding the different fuel types for forklifts is crucial to ensuring the right fit for your operations. Each fuel type has its own pros and cons, and your choice will largely depend on where and how you intend to use the forklift.
LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) Forklifts
Best for: Versatile indoor and outdoor use, quick refuelling.
Pros:
- Easy to refuel with quick bottle interchange.
- Can be used both indoors and outdoors.
- Lower emissions than diesel.
Cons:
- Produces fumes and has an odour.
- Can be costly for large fleets due to fuel expenses.
- Higher servicing costs compared to electric models.
- Bottles are heavy to lift onto the back of the forklift.
Diesel Forklifts
Best for: Heavy-duty outdoor operations, remote areas with no access to electricity or LPG.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and long-running.
- Ideal for rugged, high-capacity lifting.
- Works well in remote areas where other fuels aren’t available.
Cons:
- High emissions and soot output, not suitable for indoor use.
- Expensive servicing and maintenance costs.
- Noisy and prefers a dedicated fueling station.
Lead Acid Electric Forklifts
Best for: Specialised applications requiring certification (e.g., explosion-proof environments).
Pros:
- Certified for use in niche applications like Class 1 Zone 1 environments.
- Suitable for specific industrial requirements.
Cons:
- Requires significant maintenance, including regular watering.
- Long charging time (8 hours charge + 8 hours cooldown).
- Can emit fumes and requires proper ventilation.
- Generally, warehouses need an eye wash station for lead acid equipment.
Lithium-Ion Electric Forklifts
Best for: Modern warehouse operations with opportunity charging needs.
Pros:
- No maintenance or watering required.
- Can be opportunity charged (charged partially without damage).
- Advanced battery management system ensures longevity and efficiency.
- Longer run time than lead and LPG.
- Longer lifetime than lead.
Cons:
- Some hesitation in adoption due to new technology concerns.
Our Fuel Type Recommendation
While we generally recommend lithium-ion electric forklifts for most modern operations due to their efficiency and low maintenance, the right choice depends on your specific needs. If you're in a remote area, diesel forklifts may still be the best option. Similarly, for mixed indoor and outdoor use, LPG forklifts remain a practical choice.
Choosing the Right Brand and Dealer
Selecting the right forklift brand and dealer is about more than just making a purchase—it’s about forming a long-term partnership. Your dealer should provide not only high-quality equipment but also reliable customer service and ongoing support to keep your operations running smoothly.
Brand vs. Service: What Matters More?
Many buyers assume that brand is the most important factor, but in reality, the service behind the brand often makes the biggest difference. Well-known brands like Toyota or Crown may offer quality equipment, but smaller independent dealers can sometimes provide better, more personalised service.
Larger brands tend to prioritise fleet customers with hundreds of forklifts, leaving smaller buyers feeling like just another number. On the other hand, independent dealers often focus on providing tailored solutions and more attentive service, ensuring that businesses of all sizes get the support they need.
What to Look for in a Dealer
A great forklift dealer should:
✅ Offer a variety of brands and models to match your specific needs.
✅ Provide excellent customer support and after-sales service.
✅ Have experienced technicians for servicing and maintenance.
✅ Offer fast access to service reports and documentation for compliance purposes.
✅ Be located in a convenient area for easy support.
✅ Have been established for more than a couple of years.
The Long-Term Value of the Right Dealer
Forklift purchases are long-term investments, and you need a dealer who can support you throughout the lifespan of your equipment. A dealer who understands your specific industry and operational challenges can offer more than just sales—they can provide long-term solutions to keep your business efficient and compliant.
If a dealer can’t provide quick access to service records, offer on-the-spot support, or take the time to understand your needs, they might not be the right fit. The best dealers offer a partnership, not just a transaction.
Key Differences Between Buying New and Used Forklifts
Deciding whether to buy a new or used forklift depends on several factors, including your budget, application, and expected usage. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to assess your specific needs before making a decision.
When to Buy New
Best for: Businesses that need long-term reliability and heavy daily usage.
Pros:
- Comes with a full manufacturer warranty.
- Longer lifespan with fewer initial maintenance issues.
- Access to the latest technology and fuel efficiency.
- Customisation options to meet specific operational needs.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost.
- Depreciates in value over time.
- May involve longer lead times for delivery.
If your business depends on forklifts for daily operations, buying new is often the best choice—especially if your annual usage exceeds 1,000 to 2,000 hours.
A new forklift provides maximum uptime and efficiency, making it a smart investment for businesses with high-demand applications.
When to Buy Used
Best for: Businesses with lower usage requirements or tight budgets.
Pros:
- Lower initial investment compared to buying new.
- Immediate availability—no long wait times for orders.
- Suitable for light-duty applications (e.g., a few hours per day, part-time use).
Cons:
- Higher risk of maintenance issues and potential downtime.
- Someone once coined it as ‘buying someone else’s problems’.
- Shorter lifespan (when you have it) compared to a new forklift.
- May lack warranty coverage, depending on the dealer.
If your forklift usage is sporadic—such as a few hours per week—buying used can be a cost-effective way to get the equipment you need without overspending.
Which Option is Right for You?
- If uptime and long-term reliability are crucial, buy new.
- If budget constraints are a priority and usage is light, buy used.
- If you're unsure, consider a rental or lease to test before committing.
Purchase Options: Buying, Renting, and Rent-to-Buy
Choosing how to acquire a forklift depends on your financial situation, business needs, and long-term goals. There are multiple ways to secure a forklift, each option has its benefits and drawbacks.
Buying a Forklift
Best for: Businesses with strong cash flow that need long-term equipment ownership.
Pros:
- Full ownership with no ongoing rental fees.
- Can be used indefinitely with proper maintenance.
- No contractual limitations or return conditions.
Cons:
- High-upfront cost.
- Depreciation affects resale value.
- Maintenance and servicing responsibilities fall on the owner.
Buying is ideal for companies that heavily rely on forklifts and plan to use them for extended periods. If you have the financial stability to invest in ownership, this can be the most cost-effective long-term option.
Rent-to-Buy a Forklift
Best for: Businesses that want to try before committing to ownership.
Pros:
- Lower initial cost compared to outright buying.
- Payments contribute towards eventual ownership.
- Flexibility to test if the forklift suits long-term needs.
Cons:
- Possible higher monthly payments compared to traditional renting.
- Commitment required to complete the payment/rental term.
- Limited flexibility if business needs change.
Rent-to-buy is a great option for businesses unsure about a long-term purchase but needing stability beyond short-term rental. It offers a middle ground between renting and owning.
Renting a Forklift
Best for: Businesses with short-term or seasonal needs.
Pros:
- No long-term commitment.
- No maintenance or servicing responsibilities.
- Immediate availability for short-term projects.
- Great for people with 2 or more forklifts
- Rotate your machines at the end of the term with minimal financial impact (think trade-ins)
- Peace of mind.
Cons:
- Higher long-term costs compared to leasing or buying.
- No return on investment since you don’t own the asset. This could also be a positive.
Renting is the best option for companies needing a forklift temporarily or for unpredictable workloads. It allows businesses to scale their fleet up or down as needed.
Which Option is Right for You?
- If you need long-term reliability and own your equipment, buy.
- If you want flexibility with predictable costs, rent-to-buy.
- If you have temporary or seasonal needs, rent.
What to Look for When Test Driving or Demoing a Forklift
Before committing to a forklift purchase, it's crucial to conduct a thorough test drive or product demonstration. This helps ensure the machine meets your specific operational needs.
Key Questions to Ask During a Demo
- Is this forklift suitable for my primary use case? Define what tasks the forklift needs to perform in your warehouse.
- Does the forklift operate smoothly in my environment? Test it in real-world conditions—on your warehouse floor, around obstacles, and in tight spaces.
- Do the operators feel comfortable using it? Operator feedback is essential for efficiency and safety.
- Does it have the necessary power and features? Make sure it can handle your loads, reach required heights, and manoeuvre easily.
- How does the visibility and control feel? Clear sightlines and responsive controls improve safety and productivity.
- What are the service and maintenance requirements? Ensure you understand the upkeep needed to keep it running efficiently.
A well-planned demo can prevent costly mistakes and ensure you select the best forklift for your business.
Delivery Times to Expect When Purchasing a Forklift
Understanding lead times for forklift delivery is essential for planning your operations. The availability of new and used forklifts varies significantly, so it's important to set realistic expectations.
New Forklift Lead Times
- Some models may be in stock and available for immediate delivery.
- Custom orders or high-demand models can have lead times ranging from 3 to 12 months.
- Certain manufacturers have extended wait times of up to two years for models.
Used Forklift Lead Times
- Typically, available immediately as they are already in stock.
- Minimal wait times, aside from minor servicing or modifications before delivery.
What to Consider When Planning for Delivery
- Stock availability: Check with your dealer if the model is in stock or requires manufacturing.
- Customisation needs: Special attachments or modifications can extend lead times.
- Supply chain delays: Global supply chain issues may impact delivery schedules.
- Dealer reputation: Reliable dealers can provide clear timelines and accurate expectations.
If timing is critical for your business, considering used forklifts or in-stock models can help avoid delays.
Walk - Don’t Run When Purchasing a Forklift
Found the perfect forklift? That’s great—but before you commit, make sure you’ve checked these critical details.
Check the Warranty Policy
Not all warranties are created equal. Some sellers may offer a warranty but fail to provide a clear warranty policy. Before committing, make sure:
✔️ The warranty covers both parts and labour.
✔️ You understand the limits and exclusions of the warranty.
✔️ The dealer has a reliable track record of honouring their warranty terms.
Research the Dealer’s Reputation
With many new dealers entering the market, some may be reselling auction-bought machines with uncertain service history. To avoid a bad purchase:
✔️ Choose a dealer with a proven track record in the industry.
✔️ If possible, get a third-party inspection—just like you would when buying a car.
✔️ Look for online reviews and ask others in your industry about the types of machines they use.
A major issue in the industry is that many forklift dealers are tied to a single brand. For example, if you were to walk into a Toyota, Crown, Hyster, or other dealership, the salesperson’s priority is to sell their brand, not necessarily the best forklift to buy for your needs.
Some dealerships push whatever inventory they have, even if it’s not a great fit. If they only have 2.5-tonne forklifts in stock but you need a 1.5-tonne, they may convince you that the larger model is “just as good.” This is where many businesses overspend on unnecessary equipment or struggle with inefficient operations because their forklift isn’t the right fit.
Double Check the Functionality of the Forklift Meets Your Needs
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is choosing a forklift which functionality doesn’t meet the requirements of the business.
For example:
🚫 A walkie stacker might seem like a cheaper option, but if you need to unload from trucks, a walkie reach model with a pantograph scissor movement would be a better fit to get into the back of trucks or utes and vans.
🚫 Businesses in heavy-use environments should avoid buying an older used forklift, as it may not last long enough to deliver a return on investment. Look more towards new or late model unit. Yes, it will cost more but you’ll thank us later.
Use Industry Knowledge to Make an Educated Decision
✅ Check what similar businesses are using—if your competitors in food manufacturing use a three-wheel counterbalance electric forklift, it’s likely the right choice for you too.
✅ Consult experienced professionals to ensure you’re getting the right forklift truck for your needs.
At the end of the day, the best forklift for your business is one that is correctly spec’d, reliable, and suited for your operations. Take the time to evaluate your options and make an informed choice.
Final Thoughts: Get Expert Advice Before You Buy
Choosing the right forklift is a big decision, and we sincerely hope this guide and quiz has provided you with some relevant insights to help you on your forklift purchasing journey.
Even if you don’t buy from us, we encourage you to reach out for advice. If you have a quote from another dealer, feel free to share it with us. We’ll provide an honest assessment—whether it’s a great deal or if there are potential issues to be aware of.
We’ve seen it all—common faults, hidden costs, and warranty terms that might not be in your best interest. Our goal is to help you get the right equipment at the right price for your specific application.
At the end of the day, buying a forklift isn’t just about the brand or the price—it’s about ensuring the machine fits your needs, will last, and is backed by reliable support. Let us help you make the right choice.
