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The country is always in need of people who are willing to drive forklifts in and around warehouses and for a variety of industries. But how before you embark on this quest, there are a few things you should consider, including:
- How to become a forklift operator
- What the main responsibilities of a forklift driver are
- How much a forklift driver earns, on average, at every stage of their career
How do I become a forklift driver?
There are several different routes into becoming a forklift driver, with each one drawing on your individual strengths. Whether you’re more hands-on or practical with how you learn, would rather learn on the job or would like to study forklift operation, there’s an option out there that’ll suit everyone. So what does each option entail?
You’ll be able to take up an apprenticeship
This is one of the most popular ways to become a top quality forklift driver. If you opt to do an apprenticeship with a building supplier or if it’s within the warehousing or manufacturing industry, then this is a great way to get your foot in the door, almost straight away. You could also complete an intermediate apprenticeship in supply chain warehousing together with at least 2 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades 9-3 (A*-D).
Apprenticeships are offered to anyone over the age of 16 and you’ll be fully-employed by the company offering you the opportunity. In addition, you’ll also be expected to work 30-hour weeks with your time being split between college or training programmes and on-the-job experience.
You can go to college
If you choose to go to college in order to become a forklift driver, then you’ll need to complete a Level 2 Award or earn a Certificate in Forklift Truck Operations. In addition to the aforementioned, you’ll also need at least 2 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades 9-3 (A*-D), preferably in Maths and English, but this could differ from business to business.
Gain work experience
You can apply for work experience within a warehousing, distribution, construction or manufacturing business. This is either a compulsory placement that’s organised through school or college or you can apply for it independently. When looking to start full-time work in this field, companies will look favourably upon extra-curricular experience you have, either paid or unpaid. This is worth doing as it might give you the edge over other applicants.
Learn new skills
This relates, somewhat, to the previous point about gaining relevant experience. Companies will be more likely to offer you a position if you’ve gained additional skills that can be used throughout the workplace. This will ensure you stand out from your competitors. Skills you should look to acquire during your apprenticeship or during your work experience placement include:
- Paying attention to detail
- Working well with others
- Operating and controlling equipment safely and responsibly
- Excellent spacial awareness
- A solid understanding of health and safety and the importance of it
What are the main responsibilities of a forklift driver?
As a forklift driver, you’ll need to perform a number of tasks and activities. This could include tasks that need to be carried out whilst operating a forklift and whilst on foot. The main role of a forklift driver involves the following duties, although the company you’re working for might wish for you to try other things in addition to this list:
- Loading and unloading materials from a range of vehicles
- Moving pallet-packed materials in and around the site
- Checking that load, especially large or heavy ones, are safe and secure
- Performing safety checks and maintenance checks on all vehicles before use
- Keeping records where appropriate
- Following written instructions where necessary
- Wholly adhering to health and safety regulations
- Completing tasks as quickly and as accurately as possible
How much, on average, does a forklift driver earn?
Depending on skills, age and experience, you could earn, on average, up to or even over £30,000 per year (before tax) as a forklift operator. As a forklift operator, you could expect to earn one of the following amounts:
- £17,000-£22,000 – newly trained forklift drivers
- £20,000-£30,000 – trained forklift drivers with adequate experience
- £30,000 + – senior forklift drivers with a wealth of industry experience
The salary of a forklift driver will vary considerably depending on the location and your employer. It might also differ depending on the hours you do including any overtime completed. This information is correct as of 2019.
Multy Lift have a wealth of experience in the material handling industry, providing a wide range of companies with warehouse machinery that’ll stand the test of time. From new and used forklifts to new and second-hand warehouse equipment, including reach trucks, order pickers, pallet trucks and more, we’ll have everything you need to ensure operations run as smoothly as possible. We even have equipment rental contracts available for those with a modest budget, including forklift hire and pallet truck hire. For more information about how we can help you today, get in touch with a member of our team – we’re always happy to hear from you.
