Lift Truck vs Forklift: What's the Real Difference?

There isn't a real difference — "lift truck" and "forklift" refer to the same equipment, and the terms are used interchangeably across the industry. If you want the technically precise version, "lift truck" is actually the broader, more accurate term, since it's the umbrella category OSHA and manufacturers use to cover reach trucks, order pickers, and other powered industrial trucks — some of which don't use traditional forks at all. "Forklift" is really just the common nickname for the fork-equipped members of that lift truck family.

Below, we cover where the terms overlap, how lift trucks are officially classified, and the practical differences that actually matter when you're buying one — power type, and new vs. used vs. reconditioned.

On this page: Forklift vs. Lift Truck | Classifications | Combustion vs. Electric | New vs. Used vs. Reconditioned | FAQ

What Is the Difference Between Forklift and Lift Truck?

In everyday conversation, there's no meaningful difference — most people, including most operators and dealers, use "forklift" and "lift truck" to mean the exact same thing. The subtle distinction only shows up in formal or regulatory contexts: OSHA's official classification system refers to the entire category as "powered industrial trucks" or "lift trucks," which includes machines like order pickers and reach trucks that may not fit the classic mental image of a "forklift." So when someone uses "lift truck," they're usually just being a bit more precise about the category — not describing a different machine. It's a similar mix-up to the one covered in our tow motor vs. forklift comparison, where an older shop term gets used for the same equipment.

Lift Truck Classifications

OSHA groups all powered industrial trucks — forklifts included — into seven classes based on power source and application:

• Class I: Electric motor rider trucks

• Class II: Electric motor narrow-aisle trucks

• Class III: Electric motor hand or hand/rider trucks

• Class IV: Internal combustion engine trucks, cushion tires

• Class V: Internal combustion engine trucks, pneumatic tires

• Class VI: Electric and internal combustion engine tractors

• Class VII: Rough terrain forklift trucks

Combustion vs. Electric Lift Trucks

The power source is where the real, practical differences between lift trucks show up. Combustion lift trucks run on LPG or diesel, giving them fast refueling and strong outdoor performance for continuous multi-shift work. Electric lift trucks run on battery power, which means zero emissions, quieter operation, and lower maintenance — a better fit for indoor warehouse and distribution center work. For a closer look at how the two combustion fuel types stack up against each other, see LPG vs. diesel forklifts, and for combustion vs. battery power head-to-head, see electric vs. diesel forklifts.

GNT GLP60 (LPG)

$37,699

EKKO EK25D (Diesel)

$34,999

EKKO EK25GB (Electric)

$30,799

Electric Forklifts → | Diesel Forklifts → | LPG Forklifts → | Browse all lift trucks and forklifts →

New vs. Used vs. Reconditioned Lift Trucks

New lift trucks come straight from the manufacturer with a full warranty and zero prior wear — the highest upfront cost, but no unknowns.

Used lift trucks are typically sold as-is, at a lower price, but without the manufacturer testing or repair work that goes into a reconditioned unit.

Reconditioned lift trucks fall in between — sold used, but only after undergoing inspection, repairs, and safety testing to bring them back closer to original operating condition.

Iron Line Tools' EKKO and GNT lineup is new equipment, so you're not choosing between new, used, and reconditioned within our own catalog — but it's worth understanding the distinction if you're comparing us against other sources while shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is a lift truck the same thing as a forklift?

A: In everyday use, yes — the terms are interchangeable. Technically, "lift truck" is the broader OSHA category that also covers reach trucks and order pickers, while "forklift" refers specifically to the fork-equipped machines within that family.

Q: How many OSHA classes of lift trucks are there?

A: Seven — Class I through Class III cover electric motor trucks (rider, narrow-aisle, and hand trucks), Class IV and V cover internal combustion trucks on cushion and pneumatic tires, Class VI covers electric and combustion tractors, and Class VII covers rough terrain forklift trucks.

Q: What's the difference between a combustion and an electric lift truck?

A: Combustion lift trucks run on LPG or diesel, giving fast refueling and strong outdoor performance for continuous multi-shift work. Electric lift trucks run on battery power, giving zero emissions, quieter operation, and lower maintenance — better suited to indoor warehouse and distribution center work.

Q: Which OSHA class is a rough terrain forklift?

A: Class VII — rough terrain forklift trucks are their own dedicated OSHA classification, separate from the standard cushion- and pneumatic-tire combustion classes.

Q: Should I buy a new, used, or reconditioned lift truck?

A: New comes with a full warranty and zero prior wear at the highest cost. Used is typically sold as-is at a lower price without manufacturer repair work. Reconditioned falls in between, sold used after inspection, repairs, and safety testing.

Q: Does Iron Line Tools sell used or reconditioned lift trucks?
A: No — Iron Line Tools' EKKO and GNT lineup is all new equipment, so you're not choosing between new, used, and reconditioned within our own catalog.