Baker is a vintage American forklift brand that produced electric industrial trucks from the 1920s through the 1980s. The company was known for its innovative electric forklifts, particularly the Baker Hi-Tailer series, which dominated the market for decades. In 1983, Baker was acquired by Clark Material Handling, and later the brand was integrated into the Toyota Industries Corporation family through Clark's acquisition. Today, "Baker" exists primarily as a legacy brand in the used and collector market.
History and Legacy
Baker was founded in 1915 in Cleveland, Ohio, originally manufacturing industrial casters. The company entered the forklift market in the 1920s with electric-powered trucks, making it one of the earliest electric forklift manufacturers. In 1929, Baker introduced the first electric fork truck with roller bearings, a significant advancement at the time. By the 1950s, Baker was a dominant player in the electric forklift market, with models like the Baker Hi-Tailer becoming industry standards.
Common Baker Forklift Models
Model Type Capacity Key Features
Baker Hi-Tailer Electric 2,000 – 6,000 lbs 36V or 48V systems, sit-down rider
Baker B-series Electric 3,000 – 5,000 lbs Stand-up rider, narrow aisle
Baker 30/30 Electric 3,000 lbs Compact warehouse truck
Specifications (Typical Baker Hi-Tailer)
Specification Value
Load Capacity 2,000 – 6,000 lbs
Power Source Electric (36V or 48V lead-acid)
Mast Types Simplex, Duplex, or Triplex
Tire Type Cushion (indoor)
Operator Position Sit-down or stand-up
Current Market Status
Baker forklifts are no longer in production. The brand is now part of Toyota Material Handling through the Clark acquisition chain. Today, Baker forklifts are found only on the used and vintage market. Parts availability is limited; some components are compatible with Clark models.
The bottom line: Baker is a vintage American electric forklift brand manufactured from the 1920s through the 1980s. The Baker Hi-Tailer series was the most popular model, with 2,000–6,000 lb capacities. Baker was acquired by Clark in 1983 and is now part of Toyota Industries. Today, Baker forklifts are only available on the used and vintage market with limited parts availability.