Making the right choice when investing in material handling equipment is very much caught up in it’s cost. While Toyota encourages buyers to take an approach that accounts for overall cost of ownership, we understand that initial investment is one of the most important factors to your business.

How Much Does a Forklift Cost?

While prices vary, most new mid-sized forklifts cost between $20,000 – $50,000. Depending on size, you’ll spend anywhere from $15,000 -$100,000+ for a new forklift.

Forklift Pricing Factors

When it comes to pricing your forklift, remember this:

The higher the capacity, the more expensive the forklift will be. Just like homes, the bigger the forklift, the more expensive it’s going to be. It’s a good idea to know exactly how big you need your forklift to be so you don’t spend more than you need to.

Consider the manufacturer. Not all forklifts are manufactured the same. The better the quality, the better the long-term value.

The long term cost is more important than the upfront cost. When you’re thinking about buying an inexpensive or used forklift, look into what it can end up costing you in the long-run. Sometimes, paying a bit more upfront pays off.

Don’t forget to add in operating costs. The cost of the forklift isn’t the only one you’re going to incur. When you’re buying your forklift, think also about how much it’s going to cost to operate it.

Ask about extended warranties. If a part goes bad on your forklift, your warranty will pay for itself in a hurry. Yes, warranties are an extra cost, but they’re well worth it when something goes wrong.

A forklift is a huge purchase and it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into before you start. Just remember, it’s about much more than the sticker price.