With their compact size, tight turning radius, and high lift height, high reach forklifts are a top choice for warehouses in Australia’s space-limited urban areas. With so many options on the market, are you finding it hard to choose which high reach forklift is right for you?
In this article, we’ll look at the general high reach forklifts prices in Australia and what to expect when shopping for a budget reach truck.
High Reach Forklift Under $20,000 in Australia
At this budget level, it’s difficult to find a brand-new high reach forklift. Most are used or refurbished models with load capacities around 1.0–1.6 tonnes and lift heights between 4~7 metres. However, some used models may come with higher masts, though their age might be older than you expect.
Examples:
- HYSTER N30ZDR2 Reach Trucks (Used) – 1.35t, 6.3m, $13000, Manufactured in 2018, 7,400+ hours
- TOYOTA 6FBRE14 Reach Truck (Used) – 1.4t, 7m, $12,500, Manufactured in 1997.
- Linde R16 High Reach Forklift (Used) – 1.6t, 10.2m, $19,999, Manufactured in 2005
Buying a used high reach forklift is not a decision to take lightly. While it might look like a cost-saving option at first, there are several significant risks and hidden drawbacks you need to be aware of.
Compliance with Local Safety Regulations
Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) laws vary by state in Australia. For instance, in New South Wales (NSW)—where Sydney is located—second-hand forklifts may require a formal risk assessment or even an engineering certification before they can be legally operated. Failing to meet these requirements can result in legal issues or unsafe working conditions.
Condition and Authenticity
Make sure the forklift’s age and operating hours match the listing. Check whether the usage hours and age match the listing and look for signs of hidden damage. To avoid risks, it’s highly recommended to hire a local forklift technician to perform a detailed inspection before purchase.
Battery Degradation Risks
The batteryis one of the most critical components in an electric forklift. Used forklifts often come with aging batteries, which may deteriorate further over time. Used units often have older batteries that can leak or fail, causing damage or safety issues. Many buyers end up replacing the battery not long after purchase.
Long-Term Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs are another hidden expense. Some users on Reddit forums have reported paying an additional 25% to 40% on ongoing repair and upkeep costs when using second-hand forklifts.
If you’re working with a tight budget, it may be more cost-effective to lease a new high reach forklift, or consider a rent-to-own forklift option. At DJJ EQUIPMENT, we offer flexible solutions—including low-interest financing, special rent-to-own programs, and exclusive forklift battery protection plans for Australian warehouses. These include discounted battery upgrades and an unmatched warranty of up to 7 years on new forklift batteries.
Mid-Range High Reach Forklift From $20,000 to $35,000
In this bracket, you can find new or high-quality refurbished high reach forklifts with lift heights between 6–9 metres and load capacities from 1.2–1.6 tonnes. Many models come with advanced features like LCD panels, multi-stage masts, and configurations suitable for unloading standard containers.
Examples:
- Hangcha CQDB16-AC2S-J Reach Truck – 1.6T 4.5m, $24,800
- EP CQE15S forklift – 1.5t, 4.8m, $23,990
- CROWN RRTT240 Reach Truck (Used) – 1.8t, 6.1m, $15,400, Operating hours unknown
Premium High Reach Forklift Prices Over $35,000
High reach forklifts in this price range often have lift heights ranging from 9 to over 12 metres, with load capacities of 1.6 tonnes or more. They come equipped with advanced safety technologies (cameras, laser positioning, hydraulic balancing), quick battery swap options, and lithium battery systems.
Examples:
- Jungheinrich ETV MB 216 forklift – 1.6t, 8.4m, $40,000~45,000
- EP CQD20L forklift – 2.0t, 6.5~12m, $50,900~52,900
- Hangcha CQD16-AC4-I forklift – 1.6t, 5.5m and above, $38,690
EOFY Tax Tip: The Australian end-of-financial-year is the best time to invest in new equipment and maximize tax benefits.
Most Popular High Reach Forklift Brands
Now that we’ve looked at what you can expect in different price ranges, it’s also worth considering which brands are most popular and trusted in the Australian market. Here are some of the most common and trusted high reach forklifts brands used in Australian warehouses:
- Toyota – A well-established name offering reliable quality and strong after-sales support across Australia.
- Raymond – Known for operator comfort and smooth lifting performance, ideal for busy warehouse environments.
- Crown & Linde – Both brands are praised for durability. Crown performs especially well in narrow aisles.
- Hangcha – A budget-friendly brand with solid performance and a wide model range, suitable for cost-conscious buyers.
We’ve covered the key price ranges and most popular high reach forklift brands in Australia. Please note that this article focuses on regular models—if you have special requirements such as cold storage use, non-marking tires, or anything else, feel free to reach out to us.
We hope this guide helps you choose the right high reach forklifts for your needs. Just let us know your budget, and we’ll help you find the most cost-effective solution!
— FAQ —
How much does a reach truck cost?
Used reach trucks in Australia often cost under AUD 20,000, especially for older models. New reach trucks typically range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 35,000, depending on lift height, capacity, and features. For small family businesses, lighter-capacity models are usually cheaper.
A new forklift in Australia usually costs between AUD 20,000 and AUD 35,000 for a standard 2.0–2.5 tonne model. Price also depends on things like lift height, power type, and brand.
A reach truck typically lasts 8 to 10 years with proper maintenance. In terms of usage, that’s around 10,000 to 15,000 operating hours. Light-duty warehouse use may extend its life, while heavy, daily use can shorten it.
A reach truck is a type of forklift designed for narrow aisles and high racking. It uses extending forks and stabilizing legs to lift pallets without moving the whole truck—ideal for indoor warehouses.
“Reach truck” is a type of narrow aisle forklift (Class II). Not all narrow aisle forklifts are reach trucks, but all reach trucks are designed for narrow aisles with forward-reaching forks.
