Forklifts play a vital role in warehouses, construction sites, and logistics operations across the UK. Many businesses often search online to find out how much is a forklift, especially when planning for warehouse or logistics budgets. Whether you’re considering purchasing or renting one, it’s essential to understand how much is a forklift costs and what factors influence its price.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore:
- The cost of buying a new or used forklift in the UK
- Forklift hire prices and cost comparison
- Factors that impact forklift pricing
- Forklift training costs and legal requirements in the UK
- Where to buy or hire forklifts at competitive rates
By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about investing in a forklift for your business.
How Much Is a Forklift in the UK? A Cost Breakdown by Type
If you’re wondering how much is a forklift in the UK, the cost depends on several factors like type, power source, brand, and capacity. Below is a breakdown of forklift costs based on common types used in the UK:
| Forklift Type | New Price Range (£) | Used Price Range (£) |
| Electric Counterbalance Forklift | £15,000 – £35,000 | £5,000 – £15,000 |
| Diesel Forklift | £20,000 – £50,000 | £6,000 – £25,000 |
| LPG Forklift | £18,000 – £40,000 | £5,000 – £20,000 |
| Reach Truck | £15,000 – £40,000 | £6,000 – £20,000 |
| Pallet Truck (Manual) | £200 – £800 | £50 – £300 |
| Pallet Truck (Electric) | £2,000 – £7,000 | £500 – £3,500 |
| Telehandler Forklift | £50,000 – £100,000 | £15,000 – £50,000 |
Key Takeaway: If you are on a budget, purchasing a second-hand forklift can save you between 40-60% compared to a brand-new model.
Forklift Hire Costs in the UK
If you only need a forklift for a short period, hiring one might be a more economical solution. Below is an estimated cost for forklift rentals in the UK:
| Forklift Type | Daily Hire (£) | Weekly Hire (£) | Monthly Hire (£) |
| Counterbalance Forklift (3T) | £50 – £150 | £150 – £500 | £500 – £1,500 |
| Reach Truck | £70 – £180 | £200 – £600 | £600 – £1,800 |
| Pallet Truck | £10 – £50 | £30 – £150 | £150 – £500 |
| Telehandler Forklift | £100 – £250 | £300 – £800 | £1,000 – £2,500 |
Tip: Many UK forklift rental companies offer long-term leasing options, which can be more cost-effective than short-term hire.
Factors That Affect Forklift Prices
Several key factors determine how much a forklift will cost in the UK:
1. Type of Forklift
- Electric forklifts tend to be more expensive upfront but have lower running costs.
- Diesel and LPG forklifts may have a lower initial cost but require ongoing fuel expenses.
- Specialised forklifts like telehandlers are significantly more expensive than standard warehouse forklifts.
2. New vs. Used Forklifts
- New forklifts come with warranties and the latest technology but are costly.
- Used forklifts can be a cost-effective alternative, provided they are well-maintained.
3. Brand and Manufacturer
Premium brands like Toyota, Linde, Hyster, and Jungheinrich often cost more than lesser-known brands but offer better durability and resale value.
4. Load Capacity
Forklifts with higher weight capacities (e.g., 5,000kg+) generally have a higher price tag.
5. Fuel Type
- Electric forklifts have lower running costs but higher initial costs.
- Diesel forklifts are preferred for outdoor use but come with fuel expenses.
- LPG forklifts are a middle-ground option with moderate fuel costs.
6. Location and Supplier
- Prices may vary based on your location within the UK.
- Urban areas may have more competitive pricing due to greater supplier competition.
Forklift Training Costs in the UK
In the UK, forklift training is a legal requirement for anyone operating a forklift. Below is a breakdown of common forklift training costs:
| Training Type | Cost (£) | Duration |
| Novice Forklift Training | £350 – £600 | 3-5 days |
| Refresher Forklift Course | £150 – £300 | 1 day |
| Counterbalance Forklift Training | £300 – £500 | 3-4 days |
| Reach Truck Training | £300 – £500 | 3-4 days |
| Telehandler Forklift Training | £400 – £700 | 3-5 days |
Tip: Under UK law, forklift operators must be trained and certified in accordance with Health & Safety Executive (HSE) regulations.
Where to Buy or Rent a Forklift in the UK?
Best Forklift Retailers in the UK:
- Toyota Material Handling UK – Offers a wide range of new and used forklifts.
- Linde Material Handling UK – One of the leading forklift suppliers in the UK.
- Jungheinrich UK – Specialises in electric and warehouse forklifts.
Best Forklift Hire Companies in the UK:
- Impact Fork Trucks – Offers flexible rental terms.
- Briggs Equipment UK – Large fleet of forklifts available for hire.
- HSS Hire – Provides short-term and long-term forklift hire solutions.
Tip: Always compare multiple suppliers to find the best deal.
How to Save Money When Buying or Hiring a Forklift
1. Compare Quotes – Get at least three price estimates from different suppliers.
2. Consider Used Forklifts – High-quality second-hand forklifts can save you thousands.
3. Look for Seasonal Discounts – Some dealers offer price reductions at certain times of the year.
4. Negotiate Pricing – Many suppliers are willing to lower their prices for bulk purchases.
5. Opt for Long-Term Rental – If you need a forklift for more than six months, leasing is often more cost-effective.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy or Rent a Forklift in the UK?
If your business requires a forklift on a daily basis, buying one is a smart investment. However, if you only need a forklift for short-term projects, hiring may be the better option.
Regardless of your choice, always factor in training costs and ongoing maintenance expenses to ensure compliance with UK safety regulations.
Having a clear idea of how much is a forklift helps businesses make smarter, long-term decisions that align with both budget and safety needs.
Need forklift training in the UK? Contact Result Forklift Training for affordable and accredited courses.