Forklift manufacturers
Which companies make forklifts
Here are the top forklift brands in the world and information about the forklift manufacturers than make them.
Allis Chalmers
Allis-Chalmers, originally founded in 1901 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was a prominent American manufacturer known for producing a wide range of industrial machinery, including forklifts. The company’s forklifts were renowned for their durability and reliability, serving various industries for many years. Allis-Chalmers forklifts featured robust construction and innovative engineering, making them a popular choice for material handling tasks.
In the 1980s, Allis-Chalmers faced financial difficulties and began divesting its assets. The forklift division was sold to Fiat’s Allis-Chalmers division, which eventually became part of the Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. Today, the legacy of Allis-Chalmers forklifts lives on through Hyster-Yale, which continues to produce high-quality material handling equipment.
CAT
CAT forklifts are produced by Caterpillar Inc., a leading American corporation renowned for its construction, mining and material handling equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial turbines. Caterpillar Inc., commonly known as CAT, was founded in 1925 after the merger of Holt Manufacturing Company and C. L. Best Tractor Company.
CAT forklifts, known for their rugged durability and performance, cater to various material handling needs in industries such as warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics. These forklifts are designed to provide reliable, efficient, and safe operations.
The manufacturing and distribution of CAT forklifts are managed by Mitsubishi Logisnext, a part of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries group. This partnership ensures that CAT forklifts benefit from advanced engineering and a global distribution network, maintaining the brand’s reputation for excellence in material handling solutions.
Clark Material Handling Company
Clark Material Handling Company, founded in 1903 by Eugene B. Clark in Buchanan, Michigan, is a pioneer in the forklift industry. Originally established as a manufacturer of machinery and equipment for the railroad industry, Clark introduced the world’s first internal combustion-powered industrial truck in 1917, revolutionizing material handling and warehouse operations.
Clark forklifts are known for their robust design, innovative technology, and reliability. Over the decades, the company has maintained a strong presence in the market, continually evolving its product line to meet modern industrial needs.
Today, Clark Material Handling Company is a subsidiary of the South Korean conglomerate Young An Hat Company, which acquired Clark in 2003. Under Young An’s ownership, Clark continues to thrive, expanding its global footprint and enhancing its product offerings to cater to a diverse range of material handling applications worldwide.
Crown
Crown Equipment Corporation, commonly known as Crown, is a leading manufacturer of electric forklifts and material handling equipment. Founded in 1945 by Carl H. Dicke and William H. Dicke in New Bremen, Ohio, Crown initially produced temperature controls for coal-burning furnaces. The company transitioned into the material handling industry in the 1950s, and by the 1960s, it had introduced its first lift truck.
Crown forklifts are celebrated for their innovative design, advanced technology, and exceptional durability, making them a preferred choice in warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities worldwide. Crown has consistently been recognized for its commitment to safety, ergonomics, and sustainability in its product offerings.
Crown Equipment Corporation remains privately owned by the Dicke family, maintaining its headquarters in New Bremen, Ohio. The company continues to expand its global presence, providing high-quality material handling solutions to customers in various industries.
Doosan
Doosan forklifts are manufactured by Doosan Industrial Vehicle, a division of Doosan Corporation, a South Korean conglomerate with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1896. Originally established as a retail business, Doosan has evolved into a global leader in various industries, including construction, machinery, and energy.
Doosan entered the forklift market in the 1960s and has since become known for producing reliable, high-performance material handling equipment. Doosan forklifts are recognized for their robust construction, advanced technology, and versatility, catering to a wide range of industrial applications.
Today, Doosan Industrial Vehicle operates under the umbrella of Doosan Corporation, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. The company continues to innovate and expand its product line, delivering quality forklifts and material handling solutions to customers around the world.
Hyundai
Hyundai forklifts are produced by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), a division of the Hyundai Heavy Industries Group, which is a major South Korean conglomerate. Hyundai Heavy Industries was founded in 1972 by Chung Ju-yung, originally focusing on shipbuilding before diversifying into various industrial sectors, including construction equipment and machinery.
Hyundai forklifts are known for their durability, innovative engineering, and user-friendly design, providing efficient material handling solutions for industries such as warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics. These forklifts are designed to offer high performance, safety, and reliability.
Currently, Hyundai forklifts are manufactured and managed by Hyundai Construction Equipment, a part of Hyundai Heavy Industries Group. Headquartered in Ulsan, South Korea, the company continues to leverage its extensive engineering expertise and global network to deliver top-quality material handling equipment to customers worldwide.
Hyster
Hyster, a prominent name in the material handling equipment industry, originated in 1929 when the Willamette-Ersted Company was founded in Portland, Oregon. Initially focused on producing logging winches, the company transitioned to manufacturing forklifts in the 1930s and 1940s. The name “Hyster” was adopted, inspired by the call of loggers shouting “hoist ‘er” when a load was ready to be lifted.
Hyster forklifts are well-regarded for their robust durability, innovative engineering, and high performance, serving a diverse range of industries including logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, and distribution. The brand is synonymous with reliability, efficiency, and safety in material handling solutions.
Today, Hyster operates under the ownership of Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc., headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio. The company continues to lead the industry with a comprehensive lineup of forklifts and material handling equipment, supported by a global network of dealers and service providers.
Jungheinrich
Jungheinrich is a leading manufacturer of forklifts and warehouse equipment, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1953 in Hamburg, Germany, by Dr. Friedrich Jungheinrich. Initially focusing on the production of battery-powered lift trucks, the company quickly established itself as an innovator in the material handling industry.
Jungheinrich forklifts are renowned for their precision engineering, advanced technology, and ergonomic design, catering to a wide range of material handling applications in industries such as logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing. The company offers a comprehensive lineup of forklifts, reach trucks, stackers, and other warehouse solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers.
Jungheinrich remains a family-owned company, with the Jungheinrich family maintaining a significant stake in the business. The company has expanded its global presence, with production facilities and sales offices in over 40 countries worldwide. Jungheinrich continues to innovate and evolve, delivering cutting-edge material handling solutions to customers around the globe.
Kalmar
Kalmar is a prominent Swedish company known for its manufacturing of cargo handling equipment. It was founded in 1946, and its origins are deeply rooted in Sweden’s rich industrial history. The company specializes in solutions for ports, terminals, distribution centers, and heavy industry. Over the decades, Kalmar has grown into a global leader in its field, renowned for its innovative technology and sustainable solutions.
Currently, Kalmar operates as part of Cargotec Corporation, a Finnish company that provides cargo and load handling solutions through its various subsidiaries. Cargotec was established in 2005, and Kalmar is one of its key divisions, contributing significantly to the corporation’s overall success with its extensive range of products and services.
Komatsu
Komatsu Ltd. is a distinguished Japanese multinational corporation, founded in 1921 as Komatsu Iron Works in Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, originally part of Takeuchi Mining Industry. Over the years, Komatsu has grown into a global leader in manufacturing construction, mining, and industrial machinery.
A significant part of Komatsu’s operations is its Material Handling Equipment division. This division capitalizes on Komatsu’s extensive experience in heavy machinery to produce a wide range of material handling solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, and warehouse equipment. Known for their durability, advanced technology, and ergonomic design, Komatsu’s material handling products are essential for optimizing operations in logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing sectors.
Komatsu Ltd., the current owner, operates independently with its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. The company continues to leverage its global reach and substantial resources to drive innovation and maintain its position as a leader in material handling equipment, ensuring high-quality solutions that meet the evolving needs of industries worldwide.
Linde
Linde Material Handling is a leading global manufacturer of forklift trucks and warehouse equipment. The company has its roots in Germany, dating back to 1904 when it was established by Carl von Linde as part of the Linde AG group. Initially, Linde AG was focused on engineering and industrial gases, but it expanded into the material handling sector, leveraging its engineering expertise to develop innovative and reliable equipment for various industrial applications.
Today, Linde Material Handling operates as a subsidiary of the KION Group, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of industrial trucks and supply chain solutions. Headquartered in Aschaffenburg, Germany, Linde continues to be at the forefront of the material handling industry, renowned for its advanced technology, ergonomic designs, and comprehensive service offerings. The KION Group acquired Linde’s material handling division in 2006, enabling it to further expand its global presence and enhance its product portfolio.
Lull
Lull is a well-known brand in the construction equipment industry, particularly recognized for its rough terrain forklifts. The company traces its origins back to 1959 when it was founded by Legrand “Shorty” Lull in Minnesota, USA. Lull’s innovative telescopic handlers, known for their robust design and versatility in rough terrain, quickly gained a reputation for reliability and efficiency in various construction applications.
In 1992, the company was acquired by OmniQuip, and later, in 2003, it became part of JLG Industries, Inc., a leading manufacturer of lift and access equipment. Today, JLG Industries, a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation, owns the Lull brand. Under JLG’s ownership, Lull products continue to serve the construction industry with advanced features and durable performance, maintaining their status as a trusted name in material handling and lifting equipment.
Manitou
Manitou is a prominent manufacturer of material handling, access, and earthmoving equipment. The company was founded in 1957 by Marcel Braud in Ancenis, France. Manitou initially gained recognition for its innovative rough terrain forklift, which significantly enhanced the efficiency of agricultural and industrial operations.
Today, Manitou Group continues to expand its product range to include telehandlers, forklifts, aerial work platforms, and loaders, serving diverse industries such as construction, agriculture, and logistics. The company is known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer-centric solutions.
Manitou remains an independent, family-owned company, with its headquarters still located in Ancenis, France. The group operates globally, maintaining a strong presence in international markets and continuing to uphold its reputation as a leader in material handling and access equipment.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi is a renowned Japanese multinational conglomerate with a diverse range of businesses, including automotive, heavy machinery, electronics, and financial services. The origins of Mitsubishi date back to 1870 when Yataro Iwasaki founded a shipping firm called Tsukumo Shokai, which eventually evolved into Mitsubishi Shokai. The company quickly diversified, expanding into various sectors such as mining, shipbuilding, and banking, laying the foundation for what would become the Mitsubishi Group.
Mitsubishi’s material handling division, known for manufacturing forklifts and warehouse equipment, is part of Mitsubishi Logisnext Co., Ltd. This division provides innovative and reliable solutions for logistics and supply chain operations worldwide. Mitsubishi Logisnext was formed through the merger of Mitsubishi Nichiyu Forklift Co., Ltd., and UniCarriers Corporation in 2017, combining their strengths to enhance product offerings and market reach.
Today, Mitsubishi Logisnext operates as a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), a key entity within the broader Mitsubishi Group. Headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, Mitsubishi Logisnext continues to uphold the group’s legacy of quality and innovation, serving a global market with advanced material handling equipment.
TCM
TCM (Toyo Carriers Manufacturing) is a prominent name in the material handling equipment industry, known for its high-quality forklifts and warehouse equipment. The company was founded in 1949 in Japan, initially as a part of Toyo Carriers Manufacturing Co., Ltd. TCM quickly established itself as a pioneer in the forklift industry, being the first to manufacture forklifts in Japan.
Over the years, TCM expanded its product range to include various types of material handling equipment, catering to industries such as logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing. TCM’s commitment to innovation and reliability has made it a trusted brand worldwide.
Today, TCM operates under the umbrella of Mitsubishi Logisnext Co., Ltd., following a merger with UniCarriers Corporation in 2017. Mitsubishi Logisnext is a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), one of Japan’s leading industrial firms. Headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, Mitsubishi Logisnext continues to leverage TCM’s legacy and expertise to deliver advanced and efficient material handling solutions to a global market.
Toyota
Toyota is a globally renowned Japanese automotive manufacturer and one of the best-selling brands worldwide. Founded in 1937 by Kiichiro Toyoda as a spin-off from his father’s company, Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, Toyota quickly emerged as a leader in the automotive industry. The company’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and quality has propelled it to become one of the largest automakers globally.
In addition to automotive production, Toyota has expanded its operations into various industries, including material handling equipment. The roots of Toyota Material Handling Group (TMHG) trace back to the company’s automotive expertise. TMHG is a key division responsible for manufacturing a wide range of forklifts, warehouse equipment, and solutions for logistics and supply chain management.
Leveraging Toyota’s renowned reliability and technological advancements, TMHG’s material handling equipment is trusted by industries worldwide.
Toyota remains under the ownership of the Toyota Group, with Toyota Industries Corporation serving as the parent company of TMHG. Toyota Industries Corporation is a diversified conglomerate with interests in automotive, materials handling equipment, textile machinery, and more. Headquartered in Toyota City, Japan, Toyota continues to uphold its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction across all its business segments, solidifying its position as one of the best-selling brands globally.
Yale
Yale stands as an esteemed figure in the material handling equipment sector, celebrated for its pioneering forklift trucks and warehouse solutions. Originating in Connecticut, USA, in 1844, the brand boasts over 175 years of heritage, initially stemming from the invention of the pin-tumbler cylinder lock by Linus Yale Jr.
The subsequent diversification into material handling equipment solidified Yale’s reputation for engineering excellence and customer-centric innovation. Yale’s product lineup encompasses a diverse array of forklift trucks, ranging from electric to diesel and LPG-powered models, tailored to meet the varied demands of industries worldwide. Prioritizing safety and ergonomics, Yale integrates advanced features like ergonomic controls and operator comfort seats into its designs, ensuring workplace efficiency and operator well-being.
Today, Yale operates globally through an extensive network of manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, and authorized dealerships, serving customers across continents. As part of Yale Materials Handling Corporation, a subsidiary of Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc., Yale continues to thrive under the ownership of a global leader in the material handling industry. Through this affiliation, Yale remains committed to delivering innovative solutions that uphold its legacy of excellence and address the evolving needs of material handling operations worldwide.