The Average Price of Owning a Forklift

When you are making the investment of owning or hiring a forklift for your business, the initial purchase price may seem pretty daunting, but you’d be surprised how much you will actually spend over the years. If you approach owning/ renting a forklift strategically, you will understand that it may be one of the most profitable decisions you could make for your business. There are some costs you should expect to occur throughout your time of running a forklift, just like anything else that has a motor… Here is the average price of owning a forklift in 2024.

The Initial Purchase Price

At the start, it could seem pretty daunting, seeing as to own a forklift the costs start from around £15,000 and end roughly at £50,000 depending on the model, features and the fuel type. The real value of the forklift, however, lies with maintaining and operating that forklift over its lifetime.

Routine Maintenance & Servicing

Routine maintenance is essential if you want to keep your forklift truck in good condition and running smoothly, especially if you want to avoid the more significant and costly repairs down the line. Some expenses can include: 

At Acclaim, we offer packages with all of this included, so you need not to worry.

Unexpected Repairs

Even with diligent care and maintenance, somewhere down the line, something could go wrong. Whether you bash into a wall and damage all of the paint, or there’s a fault that couldn’t be seen from the blind eye, if this happens, you should expect to fork out a little bit of money to get it repaired.

Fuel and Energy Costs

Forklifts run on various power sources, and each has unique implications for long-term costs:

Operator Training and Safety

Proper operator training not only ensures safety but also impacts the overall cost of forklift operations. Accidents can result in costly damages, legal fees, and insurance claims. Investing in the right operator training for you and your company helps prevent accidents, reduces wear and tear, and extends the life of the forklift.

Insurance and Compliance

Operating forklifts comes with legal and regulatory obligations. Insurance premiums can and will vary based on the value of the equipment, coverage level, and workplace environment. Additionally, adhering to local and national safety standards, such as regular thorough examinations (TE), adds to the cost but helps in avoiding penalties and safety hazards.

Understanding the total average price of owning a forklift is crucial for long-term budgeting and operational efficiency. While initial costs may be tempting as the sole focus, considering maintenance, fuel or energy, repairs, training, and compliance leads to a more accurate projection. By actively managing these elements, businesses can reduce unexpected expenses and make smarter investments that support their bottom line.

At Acclaim Handling, we help guide you through the process of selecting, maintaining, and managing your forklift fleet for maximum efficiency. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your operational needs.

If you have any questions about forklift driver training for any of the categories, you can get in touch with us at 01708 861 414, or by emailing us on [email protected] or you can fill out our contact form here.
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