One Wheel, and So Much More: The Differences Between 3 and 4 Wheel Forklifts

Posted by: admin on March 15, 2019

If you’ve driven forklifts for a while, there’s a good chance you’ve operated both 3 wheel forklifts and 4 wheel forklifts. Each type of these powered industrial trucks differs more than you think, especially if you have experience with each lift.

Our forklift certification experts are often asked about the main differences between these forklifts, so we figured a blog post on the subject was in order. CertifyMe.net offers complete OSHA training and certification for 3 wheel forklifts, 4 wheel forklifts and all other types of pallet jacks, man lifts, forklifts, and other powered industrial trucks.

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Let’s take a look at the 3 wheel vs 4 wheel forklifts debate.

3 Wheel vs 4 Wheel Forklifts – Key Differences Between these Powered Industrial Trucks

The obvious difference between 3 wheel forklifts and 4 wheel forklifts is one wheel, but the design and operation of each lift is significantly different.

For starters, 3 wheel forklifts have a much smaller turning radius than other types of lifts. As such, they’re ideal for small warehouses or anywhere else where space is at a premium. If your warehouse is typically crowded, with narrow aisles, a 3 wheel forklift is probably your best option for quicker load handling, cargo management, and overall efficiency.

Most warehouse forklifts are the 4 wheel variety. The big advantage of 4 wheel forklifts over 3 wheel forklifts is their stability. While they take much more room to turn 180 degrees, they’re better suited for a variety of loading and unloading activities, and are also better when maneuvering on slightly inclined surfaces.

Another difference between the lifts has to do with lifting capacity. Many 3 wheel lifts simply don’t have the wide base and extra structural integrity to lift as much as 4 wheel forklifts.

As you can see, each type of lift has their own positives and negatives. Here’s a quick summary of 3 wheel forklifts vs 4 wheel forklifts.

3 Wheel Forklifts – Pros

• Smaller turning radius
• Better maneuverability
• Ideal for indoor use
• Lower maintenance costs

3 Wheel Forklifts – Cons

• Less lifting capacity
• Not suited for most outdoor activities

4 Wheel Forklifts – Pros

• Sturdier design
• Superior stability
• Better on rough terrain, inclines or uneven surfaces

4 Wheel Forklifts – Cons

• Higher maintenance expenses
• Larger turning radius
• Greater fuel consumption (for non-electric models)

Need some more info? For general comparison purposes, check out these two Yale lifts:

• 3 wheel ERP13-15VC
• 4 wheel ERC22-35VG

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From 3 wheels to 4 wheels to rough terrain forklifts and beyond, CertifyMe.net has the OSHA compliance training you need. Our instruction creates a safer workplace for all of your employees, and you can remain confident in the case of an OSHA audit or inspection.

To eliminate your forklift fleet’s training gaps for all your powered industrial trucks (3 wheel forklifts, 4 wheel forklifts, etc.), sign up with CertifyMe.net today. Our training courses help anyone achieve OSHA compliance in no time – for much less money than you think, too!

If you have any questions about 3 wheel forklifts or 4 wheel forklifts, give our forklift training consultants a call today at 1-888-699-4800. CertifyMe.net will save you time, money and hassle – and most importantly, you’ll be OSHA compliant! We look forward to hearing from you soon.