The weight of a 3-ton forklift varies significantly based on power source, design, and configuration. A 3-ton (3,000 kg / 6,600 lb capacity) forklift typically weighs between 4,000 kg and 5,000 kg (8,800 to 11,000 lbs) , with diesel models generally heavier than electric equivalents.
Weight by Power Source
Power Source Typical Weight Range Key Contributors
Diesel / LPG 4,160 – 4,820 kg (9,170 – 10,630 lbs) Engine, transmission, steel counterweight
Electric 3,642 – 4,890 kg (8,030 – 10,780 lbs) Battery (1,200–2,000 lbs) serves as counterweight
Off-Road / Rough Terrain 6,300 kg (13,890 lbs) Reinforced chassis, 4WD, larger tires
Diesel Forklift Weight Examples
Model Weight Notes
HH30Z-N1-D 4,200 kg Chinese Xinchai C490 engine, pneumatic tires
Generic 3T Diesel (with paper roll clamp) 4,820 kg Heavier due to attachment
Lonking LG30DT III 4,160 kg 2024–2026 model, pneumatic tires
Tailift 3T Diesel 4,300 kg Yanmar 4TNE98 engine, 3,758 mm length
Komatsu FD30T-17 4,310 – 4,620 kg 4-cylinder turbo diesel, Tier 3 engine
Generic 3T Diesel (4310 kg) 4,310 kg 28×9-15 front tires
Electric Forklift Weight Examples
Model Weight Battery Weight Notes
Noblelift FE4P30N 4,890 kg Lithium optional 4 pneumatic wheels, up to 6,500 mm lift
Yale ERP3.0N 3,642 kg 1,770 kg 80V, 24 kW traction motor
Komatsu FB30-12 4,660 kg 1,145 kg Electric forklift
Sany 3T Lithium 4,720 kg 294.4V / 29.4kWh Lithium electric forklift
Generic 3T Electric 3,500 kg — Four-wheel electric
Off-Road / Rough Terrain Forklift Weight
Model Weight Engine Notes
3T Off-Road Forklift 6,300 kg YTO LR4B3-24 (60 kW) 4,000 mm lift height, 25 km/h top speed
Key Factors Affecting Weight
Counterweight: Steel counterweights typically comprise 15–25% of total weight. Electric forklifts use the battery (1,200–2,000 lbs) as part of the counterbalance system.
Tires: Pneumatic tires add 200–400 lbs compared to cushion tires.
Attachments: Fork positioners add ~250 lbs; carton clamps add ~400 lbs; rotators add ~800 lbs. A side-shifter can add 200–500 lbs.
Mast Configuration: Higher masts (triplex vs. duplex) add weight.
Battery Type: Lithium batteries weigh 30% less than lead-acid equivalents.
The bottom line: A 3-ton forklift weighs between 4,000 and 5,000 kg (8,800–11,000 lbs). Diesel models (4,160–4,820 kg) are generally heavier than electric models (3,642–4,890 kg). Off-road variants can exceed 6,300 kg. Always check the manufacturer's data plate for exact weight and account for attachments when calculating transport and floor loading requirements.