How Much Does A Forklift Driver Earn?
- fpt531
- Nov 28, 2024
- 4 min read
Forklift drivers keep the wheels of industry turning—literally. From bustling warehouses to busy construction sites, they’re the ones ensuring goods are where they need to be, on time and intact. But while it’s clear their role is vital, what about the rewards? How much can a forklift driver actually earn, and is it a career worth pursuing?
As a leading forklift provider, www.forkliftpioneertraining.com/contact-us, we get asked this a lot and in this article, we dive into the numbers, uncover trends, and share practical tips for maximising your earnings in this dynamic field.
Average Earnings For Forklift Drivers
A forklift driver’s salary isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s shaped by various factors such as experience, location, and the type of forklift you’re certified to operate. Whether you’re just starting out or specialising in advanced machinery, these factors play a huge role in determining your earning potential.
Here’s a general breakdown of average salaries based on experience:
Experience Level | Average Salary |
Beginner | £19,000 – £23,000 |
Experienced | £24,000 – £30,000 |
Senior/Specialised | £30,000 – £40,000 |
Factors Influencing Pay
Forklift Type: Certain forklift types demand higher skill levels, leading to increased pay.
Industry Sector: Sectors such as construction and specialised logistics offer better pay compared to standard warehousing.
Shifts and Hours: Overtime, night shifts, or weekend work can significantly boost earnings.
Forklift-Specific Salaries
Earnings highly depend on the specific type of forklift you are certified to operate. Below is a breakdown of expected salaries based on the type of forklift:
Forklift Type | Average Salary | Notes |
Counterbalance | £20,000 – £28,000 | It is most common and widely used across industries. |
Reach Truck | £21,000 – £30,000 | Preferred in warehousing for higher shelves. |
Telehandler | £26,000 – £35,000 | Popular in construction; higher skill demand. |
Pallet Truck | £19,000 – £25,000 | Entry-level; commonly used in retail. |
Pivot Steer Bendi/Flexi | £24,000 – £32,000 | High demand in confined spaces or warehouses. |
(VNA) Very Narrow Aisle | £23,000 – £33,000 | Used in high-density storage environments. |
Order Picker (LLOP) | £20,000 – £27,000 | Involves moving specific goods; entry-level. |
Multi Directional | £25,000 – £35,000 | Suitable for specialised industries. |
Rough Terrain Forklift | £26,000 – £38,000 | Used outdoors, often in construction. |
Operating specialised forklifts such as Telehandlers and Rough Terrain Forklifts typically offers higher salaries due to the advanced skills and certifications required.
Historical Trends in Forklift Driver Salaries
Forklift driver salaries have steadily increased over the years, reflecting growing demand and the evolving complexity of logistics. Below is a summary of salary trends over recent years:
Year | Average Salary | Key Factors Influencing Pay |
2018 | £18,500 | Stable market conditions. |
2019 | £19,500 | Increased demand due to e-commerce growth. |
2020 | £21,000 | Pandemic-driven logistics pressure. |
2021 | £23,000 | Higher demand post-Brexit for UK operators. |
2022 | £24,500 | Growing focus on specialised certifications. |
2023 | £26,000 | Increased competition for skilled drivers. |
2024 | £28,000 | Inflation and cost of living adjustments |
The COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit brought significant attention to the logistics and warehousing sector, pushing wages higher for certified operators.
Ways To Earn As A Driver
Forklift drivers have several ways to increase their earnings beyond regular salaries:
Overtime and Shift Work: Overtime often pays 1.5x or 2x the normal rate. Night and weekend shifts also offer premium rates too.
Self-Employment: Many drivers choose to freelance, working across multiple sites or offering contract services.
Specialised Certifications: Pursuing certifications for advanced forklifts, such as Pivot Steer or Very Narrow Aisle forklifts, can unlock higher-paying opportunities.
High-Demand Sectors: Working in sectors such as construction or logistics hubs offers higher wages compared to standard warehousing.
Seasonal Work: Holiday seasons often require additional workforce, offering temporary roles with competitive pay.
Future Projections for Forklift Driver Salaries
The growing demand for forklift drivers in the logistics, construction, and warehousing industries suggests that salaries will continue to rise. Here’s what to expect:
Year | Low Range (£) | High Range (£) | Notes |
2025 | £22,000 | £35,000 | Steady growth due to sustained demand. |
2030 | £26,000 | £40,000 | Advanced skills and certifications are essential. |
Benefits and Additional Earnings
Forklift drivers often receive benefits beyond their base salaries, which can enhance their overall earning potential.
Common Benefits:
Overtime Pay: Rates often 1.5x or 2x the standard hourly wage.
Shift Bonuses: Premium pay for night or weekend shifts.
Pension Schemes: Employer contributions, especially in larger firms.
Travel Allowances: For roles in construction or outdoor environments.
Conclusion
Forklift driving offers a stable and rewarding career, with plenty of opportunities to increase earnings through certifications, specialisations, and shifts. Whether you’re considering employment or self-employment, the demand for skilled forklift operators is growing.
If you’re looking to start or advance your forklift driving career, now is the perfect time to explore training and opportunities. At Forklift Pioneer Training , we offer comprehensive forklift training for all major types, including Counterbalance, Reach, Telehandler, and more. Our expert-led courses ensure you gain the skills and certifications needed to excel in this rewarding profession.
contact-us to learn more about our training programs and take the first step towards boosting your career as a forklift operator.
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