Typical forklift hire prices
- Short-term counterbalance hire: £100–£160 a day
- Smaller forklifts, weekly: £65–£250 a week
- Larger or specialist trucks, weekly: £250–£800+ a week
- Long-term contract hire (6+ months): from £50–£70 a week
UK guide prices before VAT, taken from our guide How much does forklift hire cost in the UK?. Your quotes depend on the exact job.
Common questions
Is there a minimum hire period?
Many hire companies charge a one-week minimum, so check before booking a short hire. Long-term contracts of six months or more usually bring the weekly rate down.
Is servicing included in forklift hire?
Most hire rates include routine maintenance, breakdown cover and a current thorough examination report. Fuel or charging, the operator and damage in use are usually extra.
Do I need to supply the operator?
Most forklift hire is self-drive, so you supply a trained and authorised operator. Some suppliers can provide a driver for an extra charge.
What details do suppliers need to quote?
The heaviest load, the lift height, where the truck will work (indoors, yard or rough ground) and how long you need it.