Top 5 U.S. Forklift Leasing Companies Compared
Looking to find the perfect forklift rental company for your business? Check out our comparison guide
Top 5 U.S. Forklift Leasing Companies Compared
Looking to find the perfect forklift rental company for your business? Check out our comparison guide to help make your decision.
Whether you’re managing a warehouse, construction site, or e-commerce stock room, having the right forklift is essential. Sometimes buying one outright isn’t the right option, and that’s where forklift leasing comes in. Renting allows you to access modern, high-performing equipment without the expensive upfront costs and the ability to easily scale alongside your projects.
But with so many providers out there, who’s the best one for you? Well, we’ve got you covered with our comparison guide, where we’ll give you an overview of five leading forklift rental companies to help make your decision a whole lot easier.
What is a Forklift?
A forklift truck, also known as a fork truck, is a type of industrial vehicle that is used to lift materials and transport them over short distances. They are motor-powered and have metal prongs that slide underneath objects to elevate and stabilize them. They are controlled by an operator who is responsible for both driving the vehicle and operating the forks.
Types of Forklifts Available to Rent
Counterbalance Forklift
Counterbalance forklifts are the most common type of forklift and are often used in warehouses and factories. Their forks extend from the front, and a rear counterweight is used to balance heavy loads. This makes them ideal for loading, unloading, and stacking, and can operate in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Reach Truck
Reach trucks are perfect for high-density storage environments like narrow-aisle warehouses. Their extendable mast allows the forks to reach deep into racks. They are best suited to indoor workplaces with smooth surfaces.
Order Picker
Order pickers are designed for high-volume warehouses, allowing operators to lift themselves and a small platform to retrieve individual boxes rather than pallets. This ability boosts the overall speed of operations. Safety is also key in fast-paced environments, and order pickers promote a safer environment with their ergonomic controls and harness systems.
Side Loader
The forks on a side loader are at the end of the vehicle instead of the front. This gives them the ability to easily handle long or bulky materials such as timber, pipes, and sheet goods, making them perfect for construction sites and lumber yards. Because the forks are at the side, they improve visibility, which is crucial for safety in outdoor environments, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Telescopic Handler (Telehandler)
Telehandlers blend the functionality of a forklift and crane, using an extendable boom to lift and place loads at great heights or over obstacles. Commonly used in agriculture and construction, they support various attachments like buckets and forks and are built with rugged tires and suspension for uneven outdoor terrain.
Rough Terrain Forklift
Built specifically for challenging outdoor environments, rough terrain forklifts feature large pneumatic tires, four-wheel drive, and reinforced axles. These allow them to operate efficiently and stably on mud, gravel, or uneven ground. Their powerful engines make them essential for industries like farming and logging, where traction, durability, and strength are critical.
Electric Forklift
Electric forklifts run on rechargeable industrial batteries, allowing them to operate with zero emissions, low noise levels, and with a more compact size compared to other forklifts. Their eco-friendly design makes them perfect for food storage, retail, or indoor distribution centers. Although they require downtime to recharge, this is countered by low maintenance and fuel costs.
Pallet Jack Forklift
Pallet jacks are compact forklifts for moving palletized goods short distances in stores or small warehouses. Available in manual or powered models, they’re simple, affordable, and perfect for tight spaces like grocery stores and stockrooms, where quick horizontal transport is required.
Pallet Stacker Forklift
Pallet stackers are the middle ground between pallet jacks and standard forklifts and offer vertical lifting in light-duty applications. They’re easy to operate and maintain and are perfect for low-volume, indoor settings like storage rooms or smaller warehouses.
Internal Combustion (IC) Forklift
IC forklifts are powered by engines that rely on traditional fuel sources like diesel, gasoline, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). These are engineered for large-scale manufacturing and logistics operations and come with both cushion and pneumatic tires for both indoor and outdoor applications.
High-Capacity Forklifts
With their reinforced frames, heavier counterweights, and advanced hydraulics, high-capacity forklifts can handle extremely heavy loads. Designed for the steel, shipping, and automotive sectors, they ensure efficient, safe handling of oversized materials where precision and strength are essential.
Tow Tractor Forklift
Two tractors are built to pull rather than lift loads, commonly seen in airports, factories, and warehouses. Operating like small trains, they tow multiple carts or trailers and are available in both electric and combustion models, providing efficient horizontal transport for various materials.
Top 5 Commercial Forklift Rental Companies Compared: Our Verdict
Before we get to our top 5, there’s something we just need to clarify. This isn’t a ranking table to see who comes out on top, but rather an overview of each company and how they can help your business. Then by the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to help you make a decision when the time comes.
| Company | Best For | Types of Vehicles Available |
|---|---|---|
| Hyster Capital | Flexible usage-based leases and mid-lease adjustments | - Internal Combustion (Pneumatic & Cushion Tire) - High-Capacity & Electric Container Handlers - 3/4-Wheel Electrics - Pallet Trucks & Stackers - Tow Tractors - Reach Trucks, Order Pickers, Very Narrow Aisle Trucks |
| The Raymond Corporation | Customized equipment leasing and fixed-cost handling programs | - Reach Trucks, Electric Pallet Jacks, Counterbalanced Trucks - Swing-Reach, Sideloaders, Tow Tractors, Stackers - Hand Pallet Jacks, AGVs, Used Forklifts, Raymond Basics |
| Sunbelt Rentals Inc | Multi-site deployment (construction, industrial, emergency response) | - Telehandlers - Warehouse & Rough Terrain Forklifts - Forklift Attachments |
| CAT Lift Trucks | OEM-backed lease programs with extension options | - Electric Forklifts - IC Cushion & Pneumatic Tire Forklifts - Hand Pallet Trucks |
| Crown Equipment Corp. | Businesses needing U.S. and international forklift options | - Pallet Trucks, Stackers - Electric & IC Counterbalance - Reach Trucks, Man Up Order Pickers |
- Types of Vehicles Available
- Internal Combustion Pneumatic Tire Trucks
- Internal Combustion Cushion Tire Trucks
- High-Capacity Forklift Trucks
- Container Handlers
- Electric Container Handlers
- 3-Wheel Electric Forklift Trucks
- 4-Wheel Electric Forklift Trucks
- Pallet Trucks
- Pallet Stackers
- Tow Tractors
- Reach Trucks
- Order Pickers
Starting our list off today is Hyster, which has been at the forefront of material handling innovation for over 90 years. They’re renowned for their tough, intelligent trucks that are engineered to perform in even the most demanding environments. No matter your industry, their advanced forklift solutions are designed to increase productivity, lower the cost of ownership, and drive you into a smarter, faster, and more sustainable future.
Why Choose Hyster
Smart Fleet Tracking: Hyster’s in-house fleet tracking software, Hyster Tracker™, is essential for anyone overseeing multiple forklifts. Gain real-time visibility into your fleet, their condition, usage patterns, maintenance needs, compliance, and operator behavior to reduce downtime and optimize performance.
Automated Truck Solutions: Hyster’s Atlas series brings automation to your workplace, reducing labor costs, streamlining processes, and improving consistency. These vehicles are engineered to seamlessly integrate with your workflow and automate repetitive transport tasks, so your operators can be used most effectively elsewhere.
Green Initiatives: Sustainability drives Hyster innovation. Through advanced electrification, lithium-ion solutions, and hydrogen fuel cell technology, you can reduce your emissions, meet federal and local regulations, and avoid breaches and expensive fines, all while maintaining operational demand.
Operator Assistance Technology: With Hyster Reaction™, safety meets intelligence. This advanced telematics system adjusts truck performance in real-time based on location and operator behavior. The result is a safer work environment without compromising productivity.
Wide Industry Support: Hyster supports a wide range of sectors, including ports and terminals, lumber, agriculture, chemicals and plastics, trucking, and manufacturing.
The Raymond Corporation
Best for customized equipment leasing and fixed-cost material-handling program.
- Types of Vehicles Available
- Reach Trucks
- Electric Pallet Jacks
- Counterbalanced Trucks
- Swing-Reach Trucks
- Orderpickers
- Sideloaders
- Tow Tractors
- Stackers
- Hand Pallet Jacks
- Automated Guided Vehicles
- Raymond Basics
- Used Forklifts
For over 100 years, Raymond has been a pioneer of forklift design. Known for their innovative, reliable, and efficient solutions and their culture of continuous improvement, their integration of advanced technology and a deep commitment to productivity have helped countless customers across multiple industries. Today, they’re part of the Toyota Industries family, giving them a global reach but without losing the ethos of what made them great to begin with.
Why Choose Raymond
Storage Solutions: Maximize space and efficiency with modular, scalable racking and automation systems tailored to your warehouse layout.
Telematics Software: Optimize your fleet and warehouse operations with Raymond’s dedicated telematics software. Monitor your performance with real-time data on operator productivity, asset utilization, and maintenance needs.
Training Programs: Enhance safety and performance with comprehensive training solutions for operators, technicians, and managers across all skill levels.
Flexible Financing: Access flexible leasing, loan, and rental options designed to support your budget and long-term operational goals.
Energy Solutions: Improve uptime and reduce environmental impact with lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and energy management systems.
Sunbelt Rentals Inc
Best for multi‑site deployment across construction, industrial, infrastructure, or emergency response environments.
- Types of Vehicles Available
- Telehandlers
- Warehouse Forklifts
- Straight Mast Rough Terrain Forklifts
- Forklift Attachments
Sunbelt Rentals is the largest equipment rental company in the world, offering a vast inventory and unmatched service to customers across multiple industries. Built on reliability, scale, and a deep understanding of jobsite needs, Sunbelt has helped countless businesses to complete projects faster and safer. With a nationwide presence and world-class support, they deliver both equipment and confidence.
Why Choose Sunbelt Rentals
Wide Range of Industries: Sunbelt has helped countless diverse industries in its time. From amusement parks to automotive, golf courses to government facilities: whatever your industry, they have something for you.
Huge Inventory of Other Equipment: If you work in construction, then you need far more than just forklifts. Sunbelt has rentals for a diverse selection of tools, earthmoving machinery, aerial equipment, and temporary fencing within its inventory. This makes sourcing, managing, and paying for site essentials so much easier.
Facility Maintenance: Sunbelt offers a wide range of rentals that help maintain your facility. This helps to support OSHA compliance, avoid expensive fines in case of breaches, and if you’ve purchased the location, it protects your ROI.
Training Programs: Sunbelt’s training programs ensure your crew is prepared and protected. From general jobsite safety to equipment-specific certifications, their expert-led courses help reduce risks and keep operations running smoothly.
Extensive Network: Sunbelt has 1,253 locations across the U.S., so whether you need something for a local project or one that spans the entire country, you’re covered.
CAT Lift Trucks
Best for OEM-backed lease programs on new forklifts with extension options.
- Types of Vehicles Available
- Electric Forklifts
- IC Cushion Tire Forklifts
- IC Pneumatic Tire Forklifts
- Hand Pallet Trucks
CAT is a legend of the game when it comes to heavy machinery, known globally for durability, performance, and reliability for 50 years. It will come as no shock that their forklifts, operating under the Lift Truck brand, are no different. They continue to innovate today and have after-purchase services that are second to none, stocking an inventory with over 46,000 parts.
Why Choose CAT Lift Trucks
Local Support: CAT has hundreds of dealers located across the country, allowing them to deliver the quality that comes with a global company, combined with unmatched, localized customer service. From purchase to aftermarket support, help is always around the corner.
Fleet Services: Streamline your business, control costs, and boost operational efficiency with tailored fleet programs that include centralized billing and fleet‑reporting tools. Their trusted nationwide support means that if you operate across multiple sites, you’ll always have someone to turn to in your hour of need.
Flexible Lending Terms: Borrow between 36–40 month terms on lift trucks with 12–24 month extensions. Perfect for long-term projects, but you may want to look elsewhere for shorter projects.
Aftermarket Support: CAT’s support doesn’t end with a sale, and you’ll gain access to their extensive inventory of 46,000+ part numbers for over 4.2 million applications. Their Parts Fast™ and Parts Free™ Guarantees ensure you’ll receive the highest quality parts delivered the next day, or they’re free of charge.
Training Solutions: Ensure your operators are equipped with fundamental knowledge of CAT lift trucks and their operation, from machine fundamentals and stability to inspection routines and load handling techniques.
Crown Equipment Corporation
Best for businesses that need forklift rental/purchasing options in both the U.S. and abroad.
- Types of Vehicles Available
- Pallet Trucks
- Stackers
- Electric Counterbalance
- Internal Combustion Counterbalance
- Reach Trucks
- Man Up Order Pickers
And last but certainly not least, we’ve got Crown Equipment Corporation, a global leader in the design and manufacturing of innovative material handling equipment. Celebrated for their engineering excellence, vertical integration, and their customer-centric approach, Crown delivers high-quality products that improve both productivity and safety. With decades of experience behind them and a worldwide network, Crown could be your perfect partner if you have ambitions at home and abroad.
Why Choose Crown
Safety and Training: Crown offers in-depth training programs that focus on operator confidence, workplace safety, and compliance. This helps your operators to get to grips with the new machinery, speeding up onboarding, improving efficiency on the floor, and reducing the risk of hazards.
AI Technology: AI is all the rage at the moment, and Crown is taking full advantage of the hype. Their automated solutions rely on cutting-edge AI to help streamline workflows, reduce labor costs, and optimize repetitive material handling tasks.
Flexible Financing: Whether you need equipment for a short-term job or a long-term project, Crown offers flexible financing options to match your specific needs and budget.
Connected Software: Crown’s InfoLink® connected solutions give you real-time insights into fleet performance, operator behavior, and equipment utilization, empowering smarter, data-driven decisions.
Global Dealer Network: With 800 certified dealers across North America, Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, Brazil, and China, you’ll always have expert support, whether you’re operating locally or internationally.
How to Choose the Right Forklift
Assess Your Needs
Why do you need a forklift, and how long do you need it for? Short-term rentals are perfect for quick projects or seasonal increases in demand, but have a higher per-day rate than long-term rentals. Load weight, height, dimensions, and customizable attachments need to all be accounted for in this stage.
Match the Forklift to the Environment
If you operate outdoors where the terrain is rough and uneven and the weather conditions are less than ideal, then you’ll need a heavy-duty model with pneumatic tires. For smaller, more narrow warehouses, compact electric or narrow-aisle forklifts are a preferred option. Always match the vehicle’s size and tire type to your workspace for optimal performance and safety.
Decide on the Power Source
Forklifts are powered either electrically or by internal combustion (IC). Electric models are quiet, clean, and ideal for indoor use, but require charging infrastructure, which can be expensive if not already installed. IC forklifts, fueled by propane, diesel, or gasoline, deliver higher power and are better suited for outdoor or heavy-duty applications.
Check Reviews and Reputation
Always research the provider’s reputation and what real-world customers are saying about them. Look up reviews on platforms like Trustpilot or Google to gauge service quality, machine reliability, and maintenance speed. Don’t be put off by one or two bad reviews, but if you see patterns emerging (both good and bad), then these are probably a true reflection of the service you can expect.
Understand the Rental Agreement
Before signing anything, make sure you fully understand the contract to avoid hidden costs. Confirm pricing, duration, delivery and pickup logistics, insurance coverage, and clarify maintenance responsibilities. Always remember to inspect the equipment before agreeing to a handover and log any pre-existing damage.
How to Get Forklifts For Your Business
Here at Commercial Experts, we’ve already helped countless American businesses like yours find the best commercial forklift rentals for them, and we’d love for you to be next. Whether you’re looking to buy or lease, we’ve got you covered!
All you have to do is tap the button on this page below and answer a few quick questions about your business. Then, based on your responses, get a range of forklift rental quotes tailored to meet your specific needs.
Don’t like what you see? No problem: this service is 100% no-strings-attached, so walk away with zero obligation.
So what are you waiting for? Tap the button on this page and get comparing now!
FAQs
Who is the best forklift leasing provider in the US?
There’s no single best provider; each company offers different strengths. Hyster is ideal for fleet tracking and automation, Raymond for warehouse integration, Sunbelt for large-scale projects, CAT for OEM-backed support, and Crown for global operations and AI-driven solutions.
What types of forklifts can I lease?
You can lease electric forklifts, internal combustion models, reach trucks, pallet jacks, stackers, telehandlers, rough terrain forklifts, high-capacity units, and order pickers. The right choice depends on your environment, load size, and whether you operate indoors, outdoors, or across multiple sites.
How do I choose the right forklift for my needs?
Start by assessing your project’s duration, weight requirements, height needs, and environment. Use compact electric forklifts for narrow indoor spaces or rough-terrain forklifts for outdoor sites. Also, decide between electric and combustion models based on power needs, noise, emissions, and fuel infrastructure.
Why is leasing better than buying a forklift?
Leasing provides access to modern, reliable equipment without the high upfront cost of buying. It’s ideal for short-term or evolving projects, offering flexibility, scalability, and easier upgrades, while often including maintenance and service, reducing operational downtime and improving overall cost efficiency.
How can I get a forklift for my business?
Just tap the button on this page and answer a few quick questions about your business. Based on your answers, you’ll receive a range of customized quotes matched to your needs, from some of America’s best leasing companies. The service is 100% free and no-strings-attached, so you can compare offers and walk away if none are the right fit.
