A propane tank forklift—also known as an LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) forklift—is an internal combustion lift truck powered by propane. These machines are widely used in warehouses, distribution centers, and industrial facilities due to their power, versatility, and quick refueling capability.
Propane Tank Sizes & Weight
Propane forklifts typically use one of two tank sizes:
Tank Size Capacity Dimensions Runtime
8-gallon (33 lb) ~7.4 gallons 29″ H × 13″ Dia ~8 hours
10-gallon (43 lb) ~10 gallons 33″ H × 12.5″ Dia ~6 hours
About 90% of propane forklifts use the 8-gallon tank. Tank materials affect weight significantly:
Material Empty Weight Full Weight
Steel ~35 lb ~69 lb
Aluminum ~22 lb ~56 lb
A full propane cylinder generally weighs 50–70 pounds.
How Much Does a Propane Forklift Cost?
Propane forklift prices vary widely based on capacity, brand, age, and features:
Condition 3-Ton Capacity 5-Ton Capacity
New $28,000 – $36,000 $39,000 – $48,000
Used (2–5 yrs) $15,000 – $24,000 $22,000 – $32,000
Standard 5,000 lb new propane forklift: $24,000 – $30,000
Entry-level 3-ton LPG model: ~$3,850 USD
Heavy-duty 5+ ton industrial units: $45,000+
Dual-fuel (LPG/gasoline) configurations: 10–15% more than single-fuel
Used auction units: As low as $3,199
Rental rates: ~$425/day, $1,250/week
How Much Does a Propane Forklift Weigh?
Propane forklifts are heavier than electric counterparts due to their engine and fuel system:
Model / Capacity Weight
3,000 lb capacity ~6,000 lb
5,000 lb capacity (e.g., Toyota 8FGU25) ~8,000 lb
Standard propane models 8,000 – 10,000 lb
6,000 lb capacity (e.g., Yale GLP060) ~10,500 lb
8,000 lb capacity (e.g., Hyster H80FT) ~13,300 lb
10,000 lb capacity (e.g., EKKO EK50LP) ~16,250 lb
15,400 lb capacity (Komatsu FG70-5) ~26,999 lb
Major Brands & Models
Leading propane forklift manufacturers include Toyota (8FGU25, 50-8FG series), Yale (GLP series, LPG models), Hyster (H80FT, S50ft), Komatsu (FG series), Hyundai (35LN-9A, 70L-7A), Cat Lift Trucks (GP series), and EKKO (EK25LP, EK50LP).
Propane vs. Electric: Key Differences
Factor Propane Forklift Electric Forklift
Upfront cost Lower ($24k–$30k) Higher ($35k–$40.5k)
Refuel/Recharge ~1 minute tank swap 8-hour charge cycle
Runtime per shift Continuous with tank swap Limited by battery charge
Operating cost ~$2.00/hr ~$1.25/hr
Maintenance Higher (engine service) Lower (fewer moving parts)
Emissions Produces CO and CO2 Zero emissions
Indoor use Yes, with proper ventilation Yes, preferred
Outdoor use Yes Limited
High-capacity Better above 40,000 lbs Good to ~40,000 lbs
Safety & Handling
Ventilation: Propane forklifts produce carbon monoxide and must comply with OSHA ventilation requirements (29 CFR 1910.178(i))
Tank storage: OSHA mandates certified LPG tanks be stored upright, 3m from ignition sources, with leak detectors and emergency shutoffs
Tank replacement: Always wear protective gloves (liquid propane can cause freeze-burns), shut off the service valve, run the engine until fuel lines are empty, and never throw, drag, or roll cylinders
Tank expiration: New cylinders last 10 years before requiring recertification; total lifespan can reach 27 years
In short, propane tank forklifts offer a lower upfront cost, fast refueling, and continuous operation across multiple shifts—making them ideal for high-volume, multi-shift operations. They weigh between 6,000 and 16,000+ pounds depending on capacity, cost $24,000–$48,000 new (or far less used), and use 33 lb or 43 lb propane tanks that provide 6–8 hours of runtime per tank.