When you need a forklift, there are many options to consider, which can make the process of selecting the right one for your job overwhelming. Not only does your decision of which forklift to purchase affect your business, but it also has safety implications. 

Each year, nonfatal workplace injuries amount to nearly $60 billion in worker’s compensation. Employee safety should be a top priority in every industry, and providing adequate equipment for job performance is essential to the safety and productivity of your team. 

When you consider purchasing a 3-wheel or 4-wheel forklift for your warehouse or another job site, you may wonder which is better suited for your needs. To help you make a confident purchase, let’s take a closer look at the differences between a 3-wheel and 4 wheel forklift.

3-Wheel Forklift At A Glance

Designed with two wheels in the front and one in the back, a 3-wheel forklift’s setup gives it extra power on the end that performs the lifting. This type of forklift is ideal for smooth-surfaced indoor warehouse settings where space is small, and maneuverability is essential. A 3-wheel forklift’s design allows a smaller turning radius for optimal control. 

The smaller size of a 3-wheel forklift means that it only has a loading capacity of around 2.5 tons, making it a better choice if you don’t have ample space to store your moving equipment. Due to the smaller size of the 3-wheel forklift, price and maintenance expenses tend to be less expensive than that of a 4-wheel forklift. 

While 3-wheel forklifts are ideal for work in warehouses or small businesses with limited space and narrow isles, they are not appropriate for use on uneven or graveled surfaces. If you need a highly maneuverable, easy lifting forklift for smooth-surfaced areas, a 3-wheel forklift should be a great choice. 

Basics Of The 4-Wheel Forklift

The 4-wheel forklifts tend to be more sturdy and stable than 3-wheel forklifts as they are balanced with two wheels in both the front and the back. Well suited for movement of products outdoors or on uneven surfaces, 4-wheel forklifts are large and have less trouble gripping various types of terrain. 

However, the larger design of a 4-wheel forklift does make it less maneuverable in smaller settings, and its larger turning radius can make it more challenging to get in and out of specific spaces. Even with the larger turning radius and design, 4-wheel forklifts tend to have better handling than 3-wheel forklifts, and they can lift typically up to 4 tons. 

If you are working outdoors and on big jobs, the 4-wheel forklift is most likely the best fit for your needs. To ensure you find the right forklift, consider purchasing a used forklift from a reputable forklift distributor who can advise you on your choices and provide experienced purchasing recommendations.