What is a Counterbalance Forklift? Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve ever seen a forklift in action, chances are it was a counterbalance forklift. As one of the most common and versatile types of material handling equipment, counterbalance forklifts are used across countless industries to lift, transport, and load goods safely and efficiently.
Available in diesel, LPG, and electric models, they’re suitable for everything from warehouse operations to busy outdoor yards. In this guide, we’ll explain what a counterbalance forklift is, how it works, and why it’s one of the most popular choices for businesses of all sizes.
What is a Counterbalance Forklift?
A counterbalance forklift is a forklift designed with a heavy counterweight at the rear of the truck. This counterweight balances the weight of the load being lifted at the front, allowing the forklift to lift and transport materials safely without the need for additional stabilising legs.
Unlike some specialist warehouse trucks, a counterbalance forklift can drive directly up to a pallet or load, making loading, unloading, and transporting goods simple and efficient.
Their straightforward design and versatility make them the go-to choice for many material handling applications.
Where are Counterbalance Forklifts Used?
Counterbalance forklifts are used in a huge variety of industries and working environments.
Typical applications include:
- Warehouses
- Distribution centres
- Manufacturing facilities
- Builders’ merchants
- Industrial yards
- Retail distribution
- Recycling centres
- Logistics operations
Depending on the fuel type and tyre configuration, they can be used indoors, outdoors, or across mixed environments.
Benefits of a Counterbalance Forklift
- Highly Versatile – Counterbalance forklifts are capable of handling a wide range of tasks, from unloading delivery vehicles to transporting pallets and stacking goods. Their versatility makes them suitable for businesses across almost every industry.
- Available in Different Fuel Types – Counterbalance forklifts are available in diesel, LPG, and electric models, allowing businesses to choose a machine that suits their working environment. Diesel models are ideal for heavy-duty outdoor work, electric forklifts are perfect for indoor warehouses, and LPG forklifts offer a flexible solution for businesses operating both indoors and outdoors.
- Wide Range of Capacities – Whether you need a compact forklift for light warehouse work or a heavy-duty machine for industrial lifting, counterbalance forklifts are available in a wide range of lifting capacities and mast configurations.
- Suitable for Many Industries – Because of their flexibility and reliability, counterbalance forklifts remain one of the most widely used material handling solutions in the world.
Are There Any Limitations?
Although counterbalance forklifts are extremely versatile, they aren’t the best solution for every application.
Businesses operating in very narrow warehouse aisles may benefit more from a reach truck or articulated forklift, both of which are specifically designed for confined spaces.
Similarly, companies regularly working on rough or uneven ground may find a rough terrain forklift or telehandler better suited to their needs.
Choosing the right forklift always depends on your working environment and the type of loads you handle.
Choosing the Right Counterbalance Forklift
Before investing in a counterbalance forklift, it’s important to consider how it will be used.
Key factors include:
- Required lifting capacity
- Maximum lift height
- Indoor or outdoor operation
- Fuel type
- Load dimensions
- Ground conditions
- Daily operating hours
- Warehouse layout
Taking the time to assess these requirements will help ensure you select a forklift that meets your operational needs both now and in the future.
Buying a Used Counterbalance Forklift
A quality used counterbalance forklift offers excellent value and can provide many years of dependable service when properly maintained. View our counterbalance forklift options below:
Diesel Forklifts
Heavy-duty diesel forklifts for outdoor and industrial operations. Built to handle tough loads and demanding environments with consistent performance.
LPG Forklifts
LPG forklifts suitable for indoor and outdoor use across warehouses, factories, and logistics facilities. Efficient, versatile, and ready for a range of material handling tasks.
Electric Forklifts
Electric forklifts for quiet, low-emission indoor operations. Energy-efficient and easy to maintain, perfect for warehouses, distribution centers, and light industrial use.
Maintaining a Counterbalance Forklift
Routine maintenance helps maximise reliability, improve safety, and reduce costly downtime.
Regular servicing should include:
- Checking fluid levels
- Inspecting tyres
- Monitoring hydraulic hoses and cylinders
- Examining the mast and lift chains
- Testing brakes and steering
- Inspecting forks for wear or damage
- Carrying out routine servicing in line with manufacturer recommendations
A well-maintained forklift will perform more efficiently and remain reliable for years to come.
Counterbalance Forklift vs Reach Truck
Businesses often compare counterbalance forklifts with reach trucks when choosing warehouse equipment.
A counterbalance forklift is designed as a versatile all-round machine that can load vehicles, transport pallets, and carry out a wide range of lifting tasks in indoor and outdoor environments. A reach truck, however, is specifically designed for warehouse operations. Its extending mast allows it to work efficiently in narrow aisles and access high-level racking, making it ideal for maximising storage space.
If your business requires a forklift for general material handling across multiple environments, a counterbalance forklift is often the better choice.
Why Choose North West Forktrucks?
At North West Forktrucks, we supply quality used counterbalance forklifts from leading manufacturers, helping businesses across the UK find reliable equipment for a wide range of material handling applications.
Every truck is thoroughly inspected before sale, giving you confidence that you’re investing in dependable equipment that’s ready for work. We also offer nationwide delivery, flexible finance options, and ongoing support.
Find the Right Counterbalance Forklift
A counterbalance forklift is one of the most versatile and dependable machines available, making it an excellent investment for businesses across countless industries.
Browse our latest stock of quality used counterbalance forklifts or contact North West Forktrucks today. Our experienced team will help you choose the right forklift for your business and operational requirements.
──── Latest Stock
View Our Latest Counterbalance Forklifts
Browse our latest selection of used counterbalance forklifts for sale at North West Forktrucks.
2013 Hangcha CPCD70
£12,950.00
Capacity: 7000 kg, Lift Height: 4500 mm, Mast: Standard
2017 Mitsubishi FD25NT
£7,950.00
Capacity: 2500 kg, Hours: 2502, Lift Height: 4700 mm, Mast: Triplex
2014 Doosan D25S-5
£6,250.00
Capacity: 2500 kg, Hours: 15829, Lift Height: 5560 mm, Mast: Triplex
2019 Toyota 8FBE20T
£5,450.00
Capacity: 2000 kg, Hours: 2929, Lift Height: 3700 mm, Mast: Standard
2021 Toyota 52-8FDF30
£9,450.00
Capacity: 3000 kg, Hours: 7787, Lift Height: 4700 mm, Mast: Standard
2018 Cesab M318D
£6,950.00
Capacity: 1800 kg, Hours: 13000, Lift Height: 5000 mm, Mast: Triplex
2021 Cesab M325DV
£7,950.00
Capacity: 2500 kg, Hours: 1948, Lift Height: 4600 mm, Mast: Triplex
2016 Doosan D30S-5
£7,450.00
Capacity: 3000 kg, Hours: 11140, Lift Height: 4730 mm, Mast: Triplex