Small Forklifts for Hire & Sale
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What is a Small Forklift?
A small forklift is a type of industrial equipment used for lifting and transporting goods within warehouses, factories, construction sites and other areas. It is usually powered by an electrical or diesel engine and has a hydraulic lift system capable of lifting loads to around 3000kg. Small forklifts are typically used for lighter tasks than larger forklifts, such as loading and unloading pallets and transferring goods from one area of a warehouse to another.
Small forklifts are essential in warehouses where space is limited, as they are much smaller and more agile than larger vehicles. Their small size makes them highly manoeuvrable and allows them to operate in areas that would otherwise be inaccessible with larger equipment.
Top Small Forklift Types
Mini Counterbalance forklift
The Mini Counterbalance forklift is the most common machine you will find in a warehouse with limited space. They are small, lightweight and highly manoeuvrable. They are typically used in enclosed spaces and can usually lift loads up to 3.5 tonnes in weight. Models can be found that use diesel, electric or LPG all with varying specifications.
Small Warehouse Stackers
This type of forklift is perfectly suited to narrow aisles and tight spaces. It can be used to stack loads up to 3 tonnes to heights of 4.2 metres, making it ideal for goods storage in limited spaces.
Small warehouse stackers can be identified by their tall, slim profile and tight turning circle. They are usually powered by either diesel or electric engines and can be found in almost any warehouse in the UK!
Small Electric Forklift
The small electric forklift is a great choice for those who do not want the noise and fumes of diesel or LPG machines. This type of forklift is perfect for use in indoor settings like warehouses and factories as it is quiet and produces no emissions. They are ideal for smaller loads due to their reduced weight capacity of 1-3 tonnes.
But unless you specifically require a machine for very heavy lifting don’t look any further, the small footprint allows you to maximise space and efficiency within your warehouse.
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How Much Does a Small Forklift cost?
*based on 7 day hire in the UK
Top Uses For Small Forklifts
Warehousing
Small forklifts are commonly found in warehouses where they are used for loading and unloading goods, as well as transferring them between locations. These machines can be used to lift and transport pallets, boxes and other items with ease.
Construction
Small forklifts are often used on construction sites for carrying and transferring building materials from one area to another. They are perfect for tight spaces as they can be manoeuvred easily and lifted to a height of around 3 metres.
Manufacturing
In manufacturing environments, small forklifts are used for transporting goods around the factory floor. They can also be used for assembling components, loading and unloading machines and performing various other tasks.
Electric Forklift Specification
| Lift Height | 3-6 m |
| Load Capacity | 1,200 – 10,000 kg |
| Lift Duration | — |
| Weight | 500-8000 KG |
| Dimensions (H x L x W) | 2.3m x 3.4m x 1.4m |
| Ground Clearance | 300-800mm |
What Our Expert Says
“The small forklift is an essential tool to keep warehouses running smoothly. With the right training and maintenance, these compact machines can provide a powerful punch of efficiency into any warehouse!“
Will Bradley, Co-Founder at Forkify
Should I Buy or Hire a Small Forklift?
The decision to buy or hire a small forklift comes down to what you need it for. If you are looking for a machine that will be used on an ongoing basis, then buying is probably the best option. However, if you only need it for short-term projects then hiring may be more suitable as there is no initial outlay and you will not be stuck with a machine you no longer need.
Another factor you should consider when deciding to purchase or hire is the maintenance associated with each. Hiring a machine could be much cheaper if the hire package includes regular maintenance and servicing.
Regardless of whether you choose to buy or hire, it is important to get the right machine for your needs. With all of the different types and models available, it can be difficult to determine which would be most suitable for your application. Speak to an expert in small forklifts at Forkify today and we can help you get the best deal on the best small forklift for you!
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Popular Small Forklift Brands
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common uses for a small forklift?
Small forklifts are commonly used in warehouses, construction sites and manufacturing facilities. They can lift and transport heavy items, assemble components and complete other tasks with ease. They are also perfect for tight spaces as they can manoeuvre obstacles easily.
There are many more uses for a small forklift and they are among the most versatile material-handling equipment on the market!
Who makes the best small forklifts?
Many brands make great small forklifts, from well-known manufacturers such as Toyota and Mitsubishi to lesser-known names like JCB and Jungheinrich. Each one has its unique features, so it’s important to understand what you require out of your machine.
If you need assistance with this Forkify can help you out!
Why use a small forklift?
Small forklifts are ideal when you want to maximize warehouse storage space or manoeuvre tight corners. They are generally easier to use than larger models and can lift up to three tonnes, making them suitable for most applications in the day-to-day running of a warehouse.
Can anyone operate a small forklift?
In the UK anyone who holds a full driver’s license can operate a small forklift, but other types of the machine may require additional qualifications. This being said anyone who operates a forklift truck should have undergone accredited training and feel confident in their ability to operate the machine safely.
How much does it cost to hire a small forklift for a day?
Small forklift hire starts from around £400 a week, but many factors can influence the price. This can include the type of vehicle, the hire duration, your location and any add-on services you may require such as servicing or maintenance. To get completely free and personalized quotes that meet your exact specifications in just a few clicks, use Forkify today!