Forklifts are industrial vehicles designed to lift, carry, or stack materials for industries like construction, warehouses, and dockyards. They range from 1-ton models for warehouse tasks to 50-ton models for heavy-duty shipping work, lifting materials up to 50 feet. Forklifts can be equipped with various attachments like clamps, fork extensions, and rotators. Buying a forklift at our forklift auctions is a cost-effective alternative to renting or purchasing new. We offer forklifts through live auctions, online auctions, buy now, or make offer options at great prices.
1970
2025
884 - 11,408 mi
1 - 58,415
Showing 1-60 of 1,405 results
- Lot 25B
2021 Toyota 8BNCU18 3500 lb Electric Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 4,794 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 227 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • 36 V • Battery Charger
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 7218
2006 Hyster H110XM 11000 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 7,618 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 171.3 in Max Lift Height • 116 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • Tier 1 • 2006 US EPA Label • Impco 4.3 L LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 7220
Octane FD50S 11025 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 64 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 197 in Max Lift Height • 96 in Lowered Mast Height • 60 in Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • 2023 US EPA Label • Cummins 4 Cylinder 2.8 L Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 18
2011 Cat P9000 8950 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 1,513 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 174 in Max Lift Height • 85 in Lowered Mast Height • 47 in Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • Tier 2 • 2012 US EPA Label • Nissan 6 Cylinder 4.5 L LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 7219
2005 Moffet M55 BS 5500 lb 3x3 Truck Mounted Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 421 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 144 in Max Lift Height • 102 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • Fork Positioner • 4 Cylinder Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 25A
2020 Toyota 8FBE18U 2600 lb Electric Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 3,738 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 72 in Forks • Side Shift • 36 V • Fork Extensions
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 7213
2006 Yale GC4100MJ 9200 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 1,553 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 184 in Max Lift Height • 100 in Lowered Mast Height • 44 in Forks • 2006 US EPA Label • Impco 4 Cylinder 4.3 L LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 25C
2021 Toyota 8BNCU18 3500 lb Electric Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 4,309 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 227 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • 36 V
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 26
2023 Toyota 8BPU15 3000 lb Electric Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
3 Stage Mast • 240 in Max Lift Height • 107 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • 24 V
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 25
2022 Toyota 8FBCU25 4400 lb Electric Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 4,132 hrs
2 Stage Mast • Full Free Lift • 187 in Max Lift Height • 83 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • Fork Positioner • 36 V
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 7215
1995 Hyster S120XL2S 11800 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 9,897 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 184.5 in Max Lift Height • 92 in Lowered Mast Height • 44 in Forks • LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 20A
2006 Hyster H50FT 4650 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 83 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • GM 4 Cylinder LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 7208A
2006 Doosan G25P-3 4500 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 6,122 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 186 in Max Lift Height • 87 in Lowered Mast Height • 44 mm Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • Doosan NGVB03.0LSI 4 Cylinder 3.0 L LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 7212
Cat EC15 2700 lb Electric Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 4,310 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 82 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • Side Shift • 48 V • Battery Watering System
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 24
2022 Toyota 8FBCU25 4400 lb Electric Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 83 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • Fork Positioner
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 20
3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • 4 Cylinder LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
- Lot 7209
2005 Doosan G25P-3 4500 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 5,588 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 186 in Max Lift Height • 85 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • 2004 US EPA Label • NGVI Inc G430E 58.5 hp 3.0 L LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
- Lot 7214
1999 Hyster S120XL25 10500 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 9,543 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 208 in Max Lift Height • 101 in Lowered Mast Height • 47 in Forks • Side Shift • LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
Lot 21A2005 Mitsubishi FGC25N-LP Cushion Tire Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 13,522 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 92 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • 2005 US EPA Label • Nissan 55.7 hp 2.1 L LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Lot 7211Komatsu FG15STLP-16 2700 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 5,259 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 188 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • Nissan 4 Cylinder LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
Lot 72081999 Komatsu FG30HT-12 4500 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 8,173 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 153 in Max Lift Height • 75 in Lowered Mast Height • 72 in Forks • Nissan LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
Lot 72101998 Toyota 42-6FGCU20 4050 lb Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 5,961 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 119 in Max Lift Height • 78 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • 4 Cylinder LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
Lot 191970 Yale L83C050SWT096LP 6000 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 4,310 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 255 in Max Lift Height • 96 in Lowered Mast Height • 41 in Forks • 6 Cylinder Gasoline Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Lot 72232021 Crown RC5545-40 3800 lb Electric Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 3,478 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 190 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • 36 V • Battery Charger
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
Lot 72222021 Crown RC5545-40 3800 lb Electric Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 3,687 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 190 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • 36 V • Battery Charger
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
Lot 231978 Cat T40B 4000 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
Usage: 10,271 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 156 in Max Lift Height • 81 in Lowered Mast Height • 47 in Forks • Side Shift • 4 Cylinder LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Lot 72212002 Toyota 7FBCU25 4800 lb Electric Forklift
Lake Point, UT
Usage: 54,110 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • Side Shift • 36 V • Battery Watering System
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 2 of 2)
Lot 25D2006 Hyster E45Z-33 4350 lb Electric Forklift
Dunnigan, CA
3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • Battery Charger
Timed auction:
Wed, May 21, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Item 13463132Yale NR040AENM24TE107 Electric Forklift
Red Rock, AZ
4 •000 lb. Max. Weight Capacity • 242" Max. Lift Height • Side Shift • Forks • Open Operator Station • 24 Volt System
IronClad Assurance
Item 13419376Hyster H60XLM Forklift
South Vienna, OH
Usage: 3,324 hrs
6200 lbs. Max. Weight Capacity • 2 Stage Mast • Side Shift • Isuzu - • Diesel • Enclosed Cab • Dual Front Wheels
IronClad Assurance
Item 13427282Hyster N40ZR-16.5 Electric Forklift
Colorado Springs, CO
4000 lbs. Max. Weight Capacity • 3 Stage Mast • 203 ” Max Lift Height • 96 ” Lowered Mast Height • 48 ” Forks • Side Shift • Open Operator Station • 36 Volt System
IronClad Assurance
Item 13335792Doosan B20T-5 Electric Forklift
Kapolei, HI
3 Stage Mast • 187 in Max Lift Height • Side Shift • 36 V
IronClad Assurance
Lot 50512023 Doosan D60S-9 5165 kg Pneumatic Tire Forklift (Unused)
Amaranth, ON, CAN
Enclosed Cab • 3 Stage Mast • 5000 mm Max Lift Height • 98 in Lowered Mast Height • 47 in Forks • Auxiliary Hydraulic Plumbing • Side Shift • Bobcat 4 Cylinder Diesel Engine • Requires Diesel Exhaust Fluid
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
Lot 482016 Linde H80D-03/1100 8000 kg Forklift
Caorso, EMRM, ITA
Usage: 3,866 hrs
Enclosed Cab • Air Conditioner • 2 Stage Mast • Forks • Side Shift • Fork Positioner • Deutz TCD 4.1 L4 114 hp Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Lot 51132023 Moffett M8 55.3NX 5500 lb 3x3 Truck Mounted Forklift
Grand Valley, ON, CAN
Usage: 93 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 144 in Max Lift Height • 97 in Lowered Mast Height • 45 in Forks • Side Shift • 2023 US EPA Label • CARB Compliant • Kohler 3 Cylinder 1.9 L Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
Lot 50522006 Hyster H190HD 17900 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Amaranth, ON, CAN
Usage: 2,033 hrs
Enclosed Cab • 2 Stage Mast • 183 in Max Lift Height • 150 in Lowered Mast Height • 96 in Forks • Fork Positioner • Cummins QSB5.9 6 Cylinder 155 hp 5.9 L Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
Item 132304192013 Mitsubishi FG40N 7200 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Jacksonville, FL
Usage: 5,003 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 187 in Max Lift Height • 87 in Lowered Mast Height • Side Shift • Tier 2 • 2013 US EPA Label • Nissan TB45D 6 Cylinder 4.5 L Dual Fuel Engine
Item 134454262004 Hyster 280 4250 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Paso Robles, CA
Usage: 4,298 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 178 in Lowered Mast Height • 94 in Forks • Side Shift • Perkins 6 Cylinder Diesel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Lot 852018 JCB TLT 25 Telescopic Forklift
Caorso, EMRM, ITA
Usage: 9,858 hrs
Enclosed Cab • Forks • Side Shift
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Item 133917682016 Yale GTP060VXNEAQ087 4550 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Usage: 492 hrs
4 Stage Mast • 240.2 in Max Lift Height • 85 in Lowered Mast Height • 60 in Forks • Side Shift • Solid Pneumatic Tires • 2016 US EPA Label • PSI 4 Cylinder 2.4 L Dual Fuel Engine • LP Tank is not included
IronClad Assurance
Item 133351512005 Cat DP50K1 11000 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Steamboat Springs, CO
Usage: 11,950 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 179 in Max Lift Height • 122 in Lowered Mast Height • 44 in Forks • 6 Cylinder Diesel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Item 132974952017 Yale GTP050MX 4800 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Warrenton, VA
3 Stage Mast • Full Free Lift • 171.3 in Max Lift Height • 79 in Lowered Mast Height • Side Shift • 2017 US EPA Label • PSI 4 Cylinder 2.4 L Dual Fuel Engine • LP Tank is not included
IronClad Assurance
Item 133351352020 Toyota 8FD40U 8200 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Carrollton, TX
Usage: 6,283 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 179 in Max Lift Height • 116 in Lowered Mast Height • 46 in Forks • Side Shift • 2020 US EPA Label • Toyota 2.98 L Diesel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Item 131510942015 Mitsubishi FBC25N 4450 lb Electric Forklift
Thomasville, PA
Usage: 1,968 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 188 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift
IronClad Assurance
Item 133585332012 Mitsubishi FG25N 8680 lb Cushion Tire Forklift
Jacksonville, FL
Usage: 3,207 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 170 in Max Lift Height • 76 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • Side Shift • 2012 US EPA Label • Nissan 4 Cylinder 2.1 L Dual Fuel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Lot 662014 Manitou MI30D 3000 kg Forklift
Caorso, EMRM, ITA
Usage: 29,919 hrs
2 Stage Mast • Forks • Side Shift
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Lot 50862022 Yale glp060UX 4387 lb Forklift
Amaranth, ON, CAN
Usage: 575 hrs
Enclosed Cab • 3 Stage Mast • 189 in Max Lift Height • 82 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • US EPA Label • PSI 4 Cylinder Dual Fuel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
Item 133351572015 Moffett M855.3 5500 lb 3x3 Truck Mounted Forklift
Schertz, TX
Usage: 2,619 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 144 in Max Lift Height • 111 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • Kohler Diesel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Lot 51182006 Moffett M8 50.3 5000 lb Truck Mounted Forklift
Amaranth, ON, CAN
Usage: 1,470 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 99 in Lowered Mast Height • 45 in Forks • 1999 US EPA Label • Kubota V2203-E 4 Cylinder 36.1 kW 2.2 L Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
Item 133917572014 Mitsubishi FG30N 5500 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Panama City, FL
Usage: 3,473 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 186 in Max Lift Height • 84 in Lowered Mast Height • Side Shift • Tier 2 • 2013 US EPA Label • GCT 4 Cylinder 2.5 L Dual Fuel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Item 133916012014 Komatsu FG25T-16 4650 lb Forklift
Tulsa, OK
Usage: 3,279 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 188 in Max Lift Height • 84.5 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • Side Shift • 2014 US EPA Label • K21D 4 Cylinder 2.1 L Dual Fuel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Item 133914032013 Mitsubishi FG25N Forklift
Birmingham, AL
Usage: 5,402 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 78 in Lowered Mast Height • 42 in Forks • Side Shift • Fork Positioner • Solid Pneumatic Tires • 2013 US EPA Label • Nissan K21D 4 Cylinder 2.1 L Dual Fuel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Lot 642015 Yale GDP30VX 3000 kg Forklift
Caorso, EMRM, ITA
Usage: 5,761 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 3600 mm Max Lift Height • 1200 mm Forks • Auxiliary Hydraulic Plumbing • Yanmar 4 Cylinder 3 L Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Lot 542019 Linde H40D-05 4000 kg Forklift
Caorso, EMRM, ITA
Usage: 8,172 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 1800 mm Forks • 4 Cylinder Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 1 of 2)
Item 134262882015 Mitsubishi FG25N 4600 lb Forklift
Atlanta, GA
Usage: 1,940 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 170 in Max Lift Height • 77 in Lowered Mast Height • 48 in Forks • Side Shift • 2015 US EPA Label • K21D 4 Cylinder 2.1 L Dual Fuel Engine
IronClad Assurance
Lot 5115A2004 Moffett M5500 5500 lb 3x3 Truck Mounted Forklift
Amaranth, ON, CAN
Usage: 1,580 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 144 in Max Lift Height • 108 in Lowered Mast Height • Side Shift • 2004 US EPA Label • CARB Compliant • Kubota V2203 4 Cylinder 2.2 L Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
Item 133584402013 Komatsu FG30HT-16 2100 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Hattiesburg, MS
Usage: 3,312 hrs
4 Stage Mast • Full Free Lift • 241 in Max Lift Height • 85 in Lowered Mast Height • 60 in Forks • Side Shift • Tier 2 • 2013 US EPA Label • Nissan 4 Cylinder 2.5 L Dual Fuel Engine • LP Tank is not included
IronClad Assurance
Lot 50572014 Toyota 7FGK40 7900 lb Pneumatic Tire Forklift
Amaranth, ON, CAN
Usage: 6,934 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 185 in Max Lift Height • 90 in Lowered Mast Height • 45 in Forks • Side Shift • Toyota 6 Cylinder LPG Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
Item 128634722016 Mitsubishi FBC25N2 3900 lb Electric Forklift
Joplin, MO
Usage: 1,109 hrs
3 Stage Mast • 180 in Max Lift Height • 82 in Lowered Mast Height • 41 in Forks • Side Shift • 36 V • Battery Charger
IronClad Assurance
Lot 5118A2006 Moffet 5000 lb 3x3 Truck Mounted Forklift
Amaranth, ON, CAN
Usage: 1,569 hrs
2 Stage Mast • 94 in Lowered Mast Height • 45 in Forks • Side Shift • Push/Pull Attachment • 2005 US EPA Label • Kubota VU2303-EU1 4 Cylinder 36.4 kW 2.2 L Diesel Engine
Timed auction:
Thu, May 22, UTC (Day 2 of 3)
1-60 of 1405
Best selection of used forklifts at Ritchie Bros.
Forklifts are essential across multiple industries, from warehouse logistics to heavy construction. Whether you need to move pallets in a distribution center, load shipping containers at a port, or handle materials in rough outdoor environments, having the right forklift for the job is critical. At our forklift auctions, you’ll find a wide range of models suited for various applications, giving you access to well-maintained, high-quality equipment at competitive prices.
Different industries require different forklift specifications. In warehouse environments, electric forklifts dominate for their efficiency and zero-emission operation. In contrast, heavy-duty pneumatic tire forklifts with diesel or propane engines thrive in outdoor settings, tackling rough terrain and heavy loads. Understanding the type of forklift that fits your operation ensures long-term productivity and cost-effectiveness.
Types of forklifts, lift capacity & height
When browsing for forklift with us, you’ll consider both the type and what lifting capabilities you need. Here’s a breakdown of the most common forklift types and their ideal applications:Cushion Tire Forklifts
Designed for smooth indoor surfaces such as warehouses and manufacturing plants. These forklifts sit lower to the ground, offering enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces.
Pneumatic Tire Forklifts
Built for outdoor use, these forklifts come with either air-filled or solid rubber tires that provide better traction on uneven surfaces like gravel or asphalt. Commonly found in construction sites, shipping yards, and lumber mills.
Electric Forklifts
Preferred in warehouses and distribution centers where emissions and noise levels must be minimized. Battery-powered and cost-effective, they offer lower long-term operating costs but require downtime for recharging.
Rough Terrain Forklifts
Engineered for rugged job sites, these forklifts have oversized pneumatic tires and higher ground clearance, making them ideal for construction and agricultural applications.
Truck-Mounted Forklifts (Moffett Forklifts)
These compact, portable forklifts attach to the back of trucks, allowing for on-the-go material handling. Commonly used in the transportation and logistics industries, they provide quick unloading capabilities for deliveries in areas without traditional loading docks.
Lift capacity & height considerations
Beyond forklift type, it’s crucial to assess lift capacity and height. Standard warehouse forklifts typically handle loads between 3,000 to 5,000 lbs, while heavy-duty models can support up to 50,000 lbs or more for industrial applications. The mast height also plays a role, especially in environments where forklifts need to navigate shelving systems or load/unload trailers. Whether you require a standard 10-ft mast or a high-reach lift extending beyond 30 ft, choosing the right specs ensures seamless operations.Power Source & Fuel Type
Selecting the right power source impacts operational costs, environmental compliance, and performance. Here’s what to consider when choosing between electric, propane, and diesel forklifts.
Electric Forklifts
Electric forklifts are the preferred choice for indoor warehouse operations, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers due to their zero emissions and quiet operation. Studies show that electric forklifts can reduce overall operational costs by up to 75% compared to internal combustion forklifts, thanks to fewer moving parts and lower maintenance needs.
However, they require a dedicated charging station, and lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries need time to recharge, which can impact productivity in multi-shift environments. Despite this, advances in battery technology have made rapid charging and battery swapping more common in high-demand industries.
LPG (Propane) Forklifts
LPG forklifts offer a balance between power and flexibility, making them popular in industries that require both indoor and outdoor operations, such as retail warehouses, construction supply yards, and freight terminals. They provide consistent power output, unlike electric models that can experience power drops as the battery depletes.
One of the key advantages of propane forklifts is quick refuelling - a standard propane tank swap takes only minutes, allowing for continuous use without extended downtime. However, propane emissions are higher than electric alternatives, and regulatory compliance should be considered for enclosed environments.
Diesel Forklifts
Diesel forklifts are built for heavy-duty applications, often found in construction, lumber yards, and industrial operations requiring high lifting capacities. With higher torque output, diesel forklifts excel in outdoor environments and rough terrain, making them ideal for moving heavy loads over long distances.
Although diesel-powered forklifts offer longer operational hours per tank compared to electric and LPG models, they come with higher emissions and noise levels, limiting their use in enclosed spaces. Additionally, fuel costs and maintenance for diesel engines tend to be higher, making them more suitable for operations where durability and raw power outweigh operational expenses.
Your choice of power source depends on your operational setting, fuel availability, long-term cost considerations, and regulatory compliance. Companies prioritizing eco-friendly solutions often favour electric forklifts, while high-use, multi-shift operations may opt for propane or diesel models to maximize uptime and efficiency.
brand with a proven track record for durability and performance is crucial when buying at auction.Most reliable forklift brands
Choosing a forklift brand with a proven track record for durability and performance is crucial when buying at auction.
Here are the top five forklift brands and their standout models:
Toyota
Known for reliability and long-term value. Popular models include the Toyota 8FGCU25 (LPG, cushion tire) and Toyota 3-Wheel Electric Forklift.
Hyster
Built for heavy-duty applications. The Hyster H50FT (5,000 lbs, LPG) and Hyster J50XN (electric) are widely used in industrial settings.
Yale
A leader in ergonomic and efficient designs. Notable models include the Yale GP050VX (LPG, cushion tire) and Yale MPB045VG (electric pallet truck).
Caterpillar (CAT)
Known for rugged construction and outdoor performance. The CAT DP70N (diesel, 15,500 lbs capacity) is a top choice for heavy-duty operations.
Komatsu
Strong and reliable for industrial use. Popular models include the Komatsu FG25T-16 (LPG) and Komatsu FB18MU-12 (electric, indoor use).
Find your next forklift at auction
Whether you're looking for a compact electric model for warehouse operations or a rugged pneumatic forklift for outdoor applications, our forklift auctions provide access to a wide selection of used and well-maintained equipment. With competitive bidding opportunities, you can secure the right forklift at the best possible price. Buyers choose forklift auctions for their affordability, variety, and transparency. Unlike dealerships, auctions allow you to purchase equipment at market-driven prices, often at a lower cost. Our auctions feature a diverse range of forklifts, from warehouse units to rough terrain models, ensuring you find exactly what your business needs. Plus, with detailed equipment listings, inspection reports, and online bidding options, you can make informed decisions and participate from anywhere. Browse our inventory today and find the forklift that fits your business needs.
Different ways to buy used forklifts with Ritchie Bros.
Ritchie Bros. offers multiple ways to buy forklifts such as live auctions, Marketplace-E with instant offers and our new private buying experience at Ritchie List. Expand your search for forklifts for sale today with our storefronts:
- Forklifts for sale at IronPlanet with buy now offers.
- Forklifts for sale by owners near you on Ritchie List.
- Forklifts for sale by owners near you on Boom & Bucket.
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