Los Angeles County is a major logistics hub with over 5,000 warehouses where forklifts handle approximately 80% of material movement. The Port of Los Angeles alone processes over 9.5 million TEUs annually, creating constant demand for certified forklift operators.
Forklift Certification in Los Angeles
Getting certified is essential for warehouse work in LA. Studies show certified forklift operators earn 15-20% higher wages than uncertified workers. However, 35% of LA operators currently lack current certification, and 85% of warehouse job postings require certification upfront.
United Forklift Certification is a leading local provider located at 1122 E Washington Blvd C-1 in Montebello, serving the entire Los Angeles area. They offer OSHA-compliant training with real-world trainers on actual forklifts. Training sessions complete in approximately 2 hours, and they provide job assistance with employers who use their service. Contact them at 562-945-5565.
Certification costs range from $59 to $200 depending on format. Standard in-person sessions start at approximately $350. Online theory courses are available, but a hands-on practical evaluation is still required.
Certification validity lasts for 3 years, with annual evaluations recommended. No driver's license is required—only OSHA training and evaluation.
Forklift Equipment Dealers
Komatsu Forklift of Long Beach is located at 20434 S Susana Rd, Long Beach, CA 90810. They offer new and used forklifts, parts, rentals, service and repair, and leasing plans. Their parts and service departments are factory-trained and capable of servicing all makes and models. Hours are Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 4 PM. Call 310-631-5438.
Hyundai Forklift of Southern California serves Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside Counties at 7436 Bandini Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90040. They offer electric, gas, and diesel forklifts from 3,000 to 55,000 lbs. Contact them at 323-622-6000.
Raymond West is located at 9939 Norwalk Blvd in Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670. They are a full-service material handling supplier offering new electric forklift sales, used Raymond ReNewed certified forklifts, short and long-term rentals, leasing and finance programs, parts, and service. Call 562-944-8067.
Equipment Rental Providers
Calgrove Equipment Rentals at 21627 Roscoe Blvd in Canoga Park is a family-run business with 30 years of experience. They offer forklifts, excavators, skid steers, light towers, and generators. Delivery and pick-up services are available throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.
Forklift Operator Jobs in Los Angeles
The LA job market for forklift operators is consistently active. Recent postings show wages ranging from $17.50 to $21.50 per hour depending on experience and shift.
Crate&Barrel is hiring Forklift Operators in Los Angeles with pay ranging from $18.25 to $21.50 per hour. Requirements include 1+ year of operating power industrial equipment.
Select Staffing is hiring sit-down propane forklift operators in Commerce, CA (Los Angeles area) for 1st shift (Wednesday-Sunday, 4:15 AM-12:30 PM) at $17.50 per hour. Previous sit-down forklift experience is required.
With over 50,000 forklift jobs in the region, certified operators are in high demand. Cal-OSHA inspections rose 22% in 2025, making compliance essential for employers.
Summary
Los Angeles offers abundant opportunities for certified forklift operators. Get certified through United Forklift Certification (562-945-5565), apply to major employers like Crate&Barrel, and choose equipment from Komatsu, Hyundai, or Raymond West for your fleet needs. Certification pays for itself through higher wages and better job prospects.