A multi-directional forklift is a specialized industrial truck capable of moving forward, backward, sideways, and diagonally—and even rotating in place. Unlike conventional forklifts that require wide turning radii and multiple maneuvers to reposition, multi-directional forklifts change direction instantly, making them ideal for handling long, bulky loads such as timber, pipes, and metal profiles in confined spaces. These machines combine the capabilities of a counterbalance forklift, sideloader, and narrow aisle truck into one versatile solution.
How Multi-Directional Forklifts Work
Multi-directional forklifts use advanced steering systems that allow all wheels to turn in unison. When the operator selects a direction, the wheels rotate to the same angle, enabling the truck to travel in that direction without changing the chassis orientation. The most advanced models feature 360° HX multidirectional steering, allowing seamless transitions from longitudinal to transverse travel without stopping. Some models, like the Combilift Combi-Cube, feature Dynamic 360 Steering for superior maneuverability.
Key Advantages
Three Machines in One
A multi-directional forklift functions as a counterbalance forklift, sideloader, and narrow aisle truck simultaneously. This eliminates the need for multiple specialized machines, reducing fleet size and capital costs.
Maximum Storage Density
By driving sideways down aisles, multi-directional forklifts operate in aisles significantly narrower than those required by conventional counterbalance forklifts. This can increase storage capacity by up to 50%.
Superior Maneuverability
Multi-directional forklifts can move in any direction—forward, backward, sideways, diagonally—and rotate on the spot. The turning radius is nearly zero meters, compared to approximately 2.5 meters for four-way forklifts.
Reduced Product Damage
The ability to handle long loads in a single movement eliminates multiple handling stages, reducing the risk of damage to both the load and the surrounding environment.
Leading Manufacturers
Combilift
The global leader in multidirectional forklifts, Combilift offers a comprehensive range including the Combi-CB series (5,000–7,000 kg capacities), Combi-CB8E (electric), Combi-MR stand-on reach truck, and Combi-Cube with Dynamic 360 Steering. The Combi-CB70E (7-tonne electric) won the 2025 Red Dot Award for Product Design. Combilift's C-Series covers capacities from 2,500 kg to 25,000 kg with diesel, LPG, and electric options.
HUBTEX
Specializes in electric multidirectional forklifts for combined indoor and outdoor use. The FluX series offers capacities from 3.0 to 7.0 tons with 360° HX steering and lift heights up to 7,500 mm. The MaxX electric multidirectional sideloader handles up to 13,200 lbs with free-view lift mast for superior visibility. The DQ series provides 3-ton capacity with 6.5-meter lift height.
Cat Lift Trucks
The Cat Multiway Reach Truck (NRM25N2) offers sideways movement, rotational abilities, diagonal movement, and agile cornering.
Specifications Overview
Brand Model Capacity Lift Height Key Feature
Combilift Combi-CB 5,000–7,000 kg 159″ Multi-directional, 3-wheel hydrostatic drive
Combilift Combi-CB70E 7 tonnes — Electric, Red Dot Award winner
Combilift C-Series 2,500–25,000 kg — Diesel, LPG, electric options
HUBTEX FluX 30 3.0 t 7,500 mm 360° HX steering, 3-wheel chassis
HUBTEX FluX 70 7.0 t — Combustion engine option
HUBTEX MaxX Up to 13,200 lbs 295″ Free-view mast, electric
Cat Multiway NRM25N2 — — Sideways, diagonal, rotational
Applications
Multi-directional forklifts excel in industries handling long, bulky materials:
Timber and Lumber Yards: Handling long timber and processed wood
Steel Service Centers: Moving pipes, profiles, and metal sheets
Building Materials: Transporting prefabricated elements and construction materials
Warehousing: Operating in guided aisles, narrow aisles, and palletized goods storage
Manufacturing: Loading and unloading delivery trucks
Multi-Directional vs. Four-Way Forklifts
A four-way forklift can move forward, backward, and sideways, but lacks diagonal movement and 360-degree rotation. A multi-directional forklift can move in any direction, rotate in place, and has a near-zero turning radius. Four-way forklifts have simpler structures and easier maintenance; multi-directional models offer superior maneuverability with more complex systems.
The bottom line: Multi-directional forklifts are specialized machines that combine counterbalance, sideloader, and narrow aisle capabilities in one versatile unit. Leading manufacturers include Combilift (C-Series, Combi-CB, Combi-CB70E), HUBTEX (FluX, MaxX), and Cat Lift Trucks (Multiway). Capacities range from 2,500 kg to 25,000 kg with electric, diesel, and LPG options. These forklifts reduce fleet size, increase storage density by up to 50%, and handle long, bulky loads in tight spaces with zero turning radius maneuverability.