Ranking of the best forklift trucks for 2020

A certain impetus to the creation of forklift trucks was the First World War. It was due to a lack of manpower that several European and American companies were independently developing, and in the late 1920s they introduced a modern forklift truck to the world.

At the time of 2020, the forklift truck market provides a fairly large assortment, which, in turn, allows the buyer to choose the most suitable option that will fully satisfy his selection criteria.

However, a large assortment can also present some difficulties in choosing, especially for buyers who are not experts in the industry. That is why, in addition to the review of forklifts, we provide you with detailed information about their characteristics and parameters, which will facilitate the choice.

Selection criteria: what to look for when choosing

From our review, you will learn what a forklift truck is and what types are, and also consider in detail the following characteristics, knowledge of which affects the correct choice:

• engine types;
• carrying capacity;
• lifting height;
• building height;
• pitchfork size;
• number of wheels;
• type of tires;
• transmission type;
• counterweight;
• optional equipment;
• safety;
• cost.

What is a forklift truck?

Forklifts, or as they are also called stackers, refer to the type of warehouse, floor, self-propelled equipment, which is necessary for stacking, unloading, processing, loading and moving various types of goods using attachments (forks).

The field of application of this technique is diverse: the loader is used in workshops, terminals, warehouses, farms, as well as on construction sites, in large logistics centers, in industrial enterprises and other industries that need optimization and simplification of loading and unloading operations.

Characteristics to pay attention to when choosing

engine's type

First of all, warehouse equipment in the form of a forklift is divided into 2 types of engines: internal combustion engines and electric ones.

The electric loader is an environmentally friendly equipment that produces minimal noise and is quite economical to use. The loader is powered by a rechargeable battery. The battery is being charged from the mains.

To the advantages of an electric forklift described above, a sufficiently long period between maintenance and the scope of use should be added: low-temperature warehouses, pharmaceutical industry, fire and explosion hazardous premises and other premises that exclude the possibility of using forklifts with an internal combustion engine.

The disadvantages of an electric motor include difficulties with the battery. If the battery breaks down, there is no possibility of its repair, only the replacement of individual elements is available. The battery also requires daily maintenance and requires a separate, dedicated room to charge it.

Let's move on to internal combustion engines, which in turn are divided into 4 types:

1. Petrol. The loader with a gasoline engine is notable for its low cost, minimal sensitivity to the quality of the fuel injected, easy operation, low maintenance costs and the ability to install gas equipment.
   The disadvantages are the emission of exhaust gases into the atmosphere and a lot of noise during operation.
2. Gas... The gas engine can significantly save on fuel costs and minimize the emission of hazardous substances into the atmosphere. There are two types of fuel for LPG trucks: CNG - natural gas methane compressed to a pressure of 200-250 bar and LPG - liquefied propane-butane gas.
3. Gas-petrol... The combined type of engine provides a high level of autonomous operation, a wide scope of use (suitable for both warehouses and open areas).
4. Diesel. The main advantage of the diesel engine is its high power, reliability and low consumption. Its cost is slightly higher than gas, gasoline and electric counterparts. Significant disadvantages are great sensitivity to the quality of the fuel being poured, a decent amount of exhaust emissions and a fairly high volume during operation.

Lifting capacity

The lifting capacity of forklift trucks is divided into 4 classes:

1. Small - from 1 to 4 tons.
2. Middle - from 4 to 10 tons.
3. Above the average - from 10 to 16 tons.
4. Heavy - more than 16 tons.

You should pay attention to the fact that when choosing the loading capacity of the loader, it is worth considering the "residual" loading capacity. The minimum weight must be at least 500 kg. So, if the mass of the lifted load is 1,000 kg, then the nominal value must be at least 1,500 kg.

Lifting height

The maximum vertical lifting height is 8 meters. Mostly the standard lifting height is used - 3 meters. For lifting over 8 meters, two-section "standard" and "duplex" masts and three-section "triplex" types are used. Duplex and Triplex masts have free play, which is ideal for working in confined spaces, as there is no need to lift the rest of the sections.

Building height

The headroom is the maximum vehicle height with the carriage lowered and the mast not extended.
When buying a forklift for a warehouse, be sure to take into account the height of doorways, arches, and already based on the dimensions, choose the required building height.

Fork size

The forks have a length of 700 to 1200 mm. Mostly in warehouses, pallets are used to move cargo. It is on the basis of the size of the pallets that the dimensions of the forks are chosen.

Number of wheels

Loaders are available in four-bearing and three-bearing, with single and double wheels.
Tricycle wheels are placed in the shape of a triangle - their advantage is a high level of maneuverability in confined spaces.

Tire type

There are 3 types of tires:

1. Bandage - low-profile tires with low ground clearance, which can only be used on perfectly smooth and level surfaces.
2. Solid cast or as they are also called, superelastic - have a high level of rigidity and strength, but weak shock absorption. This type of tire is suitable for indoor use where there is a risk of hitting glass, metal shavings, nails and other objects that threaten the integrity of the tire.
3. Pneumatic - a high level of grip on the road surface allows the use of these tires in open areas with uneven surfaces.

Transmission type

The transmission is automatic and manual. The automatic transmission benefits significantly, since gear changes occur during operation, and with a manual transmission, it is necessary to stop the stacker (aka loader).

Counterweight

The counterweight is an important part of the truck, as it is responsible for the balance between the truck and the load, and also acts as an engine protection. The counterweight is mounted to the rear of the machine.
Note that the maximum availability of the weight to be lifted is directly proportional to the weight of the counterweight.

Optional equipment

In addition to the standard equipment, forklifts also have additional equipment that increases the efficiency of transport. Below is an example of some additional equipment:

• inclined forks - required to change the vertical tilt angle up to 50 degrees. This add-on allows you to transport bulk and long loads using a bucket;
• Side Carriage Shift - Allows the carriage to move left and right relative to the mast. The add-on is very useful and in demand, as it allows you to add maximum accuracy when placing the load in a horizontal position;
• fork positioner - add-on allows you to change the distance between the forks by moving and extending them.

Safety

The operator's work on a forklift truck is quite dangerous. In the process, he can get injured, working at high speed, in cramped conditions or when transporting heavy loads, shifting the center of gravity, getting a load on the roof of the cab and other similar situations.

In order to avoid possible injury, the cab of a forklift must comply with international ROPS / FOPS safety standards.

How much should specialized transport cost?

Choosing specialized equipment for a few days can save you money. And if you want to get high-quality transport that will last a long time and will guarantee safety when interacting with it, you should forget about saving. Having saved one time, the buyer will have to spend a lot of money on further repairs and the purchase of parts for him.

Top manufacturers

Loaders from the USA, European countries, China and Japan are imported to the territory of Russia. General statistics show that the following companies supply the largest number of imported pieces of equipment:

• JAC is a Chinese company with 20 years of experience. Consists of the 5 largest automobile factories in China;
• KOMATSU is a Japanese company founded in 1921. Engaged in mechanical engineering;
• TOYOTA is a Japanese company founded in 1937. It is the largest corporation in the automotive industry;
• JUNGHEINRICH is a German company founded in 1953. Engaged in the production of warehouse equipment and lifting and handling equipment;
• TCM is a Japanese company that was the first in Japan to create a forklift truck. Foundation year: 1949;
• HELI is a Chinese company founded in 1958, one of the 20 largest manufacturers of outdoor special equipment.

Also worth noting is the high quality of the supplied forklifts from the Japanese automaker Nissan, founded in 1933, and the automobile company Mitsubishi, founded in 1870.

Best Electric Forklifts

TOYOTA 7FB30

For the price will come out	about 1,300,000 rubles
Load capacity	up to 3 t
Lifting height	up to 3 m
Reversal	2.43 m
Dimensions	124 x 279.5 x 217 cm
Engine	1DZ-II, with a volume of 2486 cc cm and a power of 44 kW and 2600 rpm
Manufacturer country	Japan

TOYOTA 7FB30 is a representative of a Japanese company that combines high quality and affordable cost.

This model has a high level of maneuverability, thanks to a turning radius of 2.2 m.The duration of autonomous operation of the vehicle is 8 hours, with a battery capacity of 370 A * h and a voltage of 80 V. With an electric motor power of 11.9 kW, the maximum carrying capacity is 3 tons ...

The 7FB30 allows for additional equipment in the form of V, FV and FSV masts, full revolving forks and roll paper grippers, cross movement carriages and tilt forks.

• affordable price;
• good maneuverability;
• compact size;
• the ability to install an additional device;
• long work without recharging.

• absent.

STILL RX60 Series

average price	2,300,000 rubles
Maximum cargo capacity	from 2.5 to 3.5 t
Speed	up to 21 km / h
Battery voltage	80 in
Wheels	four-bearing, superelastic
Position of work	sitting
Produced by	in Germany
Height	maximum 7.6 m
Turn	2.1 m

Specialized vehicles of the STILL RX60 series with single-engine front-wheel drive, made in Germany and are of high quality. The model is very maneuverable, the turning radius is 2.1 m. The power will be enough to load a cargo weighing 2.5-3.5 tons (depending on the model) to a height of 7.6 m.

A battery with a voltage of 80 V will delight the consumer with long-term work, since the manufacturer has taken care of returning up to 20% of the energy thanks to the recuperation system.

The RX60's controls are simple and intuitive. In addition to the standard equipment, the model supports many additional options, including grabs and attachments.

STILL RX60 is suitable for working with bulky goods, both in the warehouse and for open areas. It is possible to transport goods in any weather conditions, because all important systems are protected from moisture, which excludes the possibility of getting wet.

Separately, the high quality of the brake system should be highlighted, which is characterized by slow wear.

• simple control;
• small turning radius;
• return of energy;
• support for additional configuration;
• moisture protection;
• high lifting height;
• wear resistance of the brake system.

• not found.

TCM FB30-8

Total weight	3,530 kg
Battery capacity and voltage	450 A * h, 72 V
Position for work	sitting
average cost	2 512 000 rubles
Load capacity	3 t
Dimensions	358 x 122.5 x 207.5 cm
Engine power (thrust, lift)	11.9 kW, 14 kW
Speed	up to 15 km / h
Lifting height	up to 6 m
Tire type	pneumatic

The autonomy of the TCM FB30-8 reaches 8.5 hours, which was made possible by the use of a regenerative braking system. The model is perfect for working in small spaces due to its good maneuverability and compactness.

The maximum carrying capacity is 3 tons, which the vehicle can lift to a height of 6 meters. The speed limiter prevents rear skidding during the work process. The anti-roll system provides additional safety.

• speed limit;
• ease of management and maintenance;
• good maneuverability;
• economical charge consumption;
• compact size;
• anti-roll system.

• not found.

HUBTEX DS 27

Price	from 4,300,000 rubles.
Lifting height	up to 6 m
Weight of cargo	up to 2.7 t
Number of wheels	3
Manufacturer country	Germany

HUBTEX DS 27 is a universal electric vehicle capable of working in all directions. Three large wheels with 4 way valves allow the truck to be used both indoors and outdoors with uneven surfaces.

The model is suitable for working with both standard weights and long ones.

Management is carried out in a standing position. Operator backrest adjustment and low step are available for added convenience.

• versatility;
• ergonomics;
• excellent all-round visibility;
• noiseless operation.

• not found.

Best Diesel Forklifts

TOYOTA 8FD30

For the price will come out	about 1,300,000 rubles
Load capacity	up to 3 t
Lifting height	up to 3 m
Reversal	2.43 m
Dimensions	124 x 279.5 x 217 cm
Engine	1DZ-II, with a volume of 2486 cc cm and a power of 44 kW and 2600 rpm
Manufacturer country	Japan

The Japanese stacker has good durability and reliability. With a maximum possible lifting capacity of 3 tons, it is able to lift a load to a height of 3 m. Fuel consumption is quite economical.
TOYOTA 8FD30 has a small turning radius of 2.43 m, which allows it to be used in small spaces. The model is unpretentious in operation and will last for many years, subject to timely maintenance.

• unpretentious maintenance;
• efficiency in work;
• small size;
• durability and maneuverability;
• acceptable price.

• absent.

KOMATSU FD20T-17

Cargo capacity (t)	maximum 2
Lifting height (m)	maximum 3
Control	sitting
Tires	pneumatic
Produced by	in Japan
Average price (in rubles)	1375000
Turning radius (m)	2.19
Drive unit	manual
Voltage, battery capacity (V, A * h)	12, 64
Engine	Komatsu 4D94LE
Rotation frequency, power (rpm, kW)	2 200, 34.2
Tank capacity (l)	58

At its low cost, the KOMATSU FD20T-17 has a powerful enough engine with economical fuel consumption and provides fast movement with large loads. The maximum lifting and lifting heights are 2 t and 3 m.

The model is distinguished by good maneuverability, high-quality assembly, durability and reliability.

• ease of use;
• low cost;
• small turning radius;
• efficiency and economy;
• durability.

• not found.

HYUNDAI 50D

Produced by	in South Korea
average price	2,150,000 rubles
Maximum cargo capacity	5 t
Model, power and engine speed	D4DD, 70 kW, 2300 rpm
Maximum speed	26.6 km / h
Control type	sitting
Lifting height	2.9 m
Dimensions	330 x 174 x 220.8 cm
Tire type	pneumatic
Turning radius	3.02 m

In Russia, HYUNDAI 50D is very popular, as it is endowed with a number of good technical characteristics that allow it to be used without difficulty in outdoor conditions in any weather.

The equipment has a high build quality, excellent maneuverability and high productivity in work. The maximum load capacity is 5 tons.

• affordable price;
• high productivity and efficiency;
• good maneuverability;
• reliability and durability;
• adaptation to different weather conditions.

• not found.

Best Diesel Gas Forklift Truck

HUBTEX DQ 50 D

Price	from 4 910 990 rub.
Produced by	in Germany
Maximum load lifting	5 t
Lifting height	maximum 4.56 m
Building height	3.2 m
Tires	superelastic
Weight	7.4 t
Mast	standard
Dimensions	260 x 223 x 320 cm

HUBTEX DQ 50 D is a versatile solution for transportation and handling of bulky and long goods both indoors and outdoors. The stacker is available for purchase in gas and diesel versions.

This model combines a reach truck, a forklift and a side lift truck. Such versatility was achieved thanks to a special design: the frame-type mast extends horizontally. Also a distinctive feature is a separate drive for each wheel.

• excellent maneuverability and performance;
• structural strength;
• possibility of purchase in diesel and gas versions;
• separate drive for each wheel;
• multifunctionality.

• not found.

Conclusion

The ranking featured the best diesel, gas and electric forklift trucks. After reading our review, you can choose the model that suits you best. For more detailed information, it is better to contact a specialist in order to exclude possible mistakes when buying.