Quick answer
Leasing a forklift in the UK typically costs between £150 and £500 per month, depending on the model, lift capacity, power type, and what’s included in your contract. For example, a small 1.5-ton electric forklift might lease for around £150 / month, while a larger diesel counterbalance could reach £600 + / month.
Why more UK businesses are choosing to lease
Many businesses today are turning to forklift leasing rather than outright purchase especially with rising equipment costs and fast-evolving electric models. Leasing offers flexibility: you get modern, well-maintained equipment without the big upfront payment.
For seasonal operations or warehouses scaling up and down, it’s a smart way to keep your fleet agile while managing cash flow.
What affects the cost of leasing a forklift?
Several factors determine how much you’ll pay each month. Here’s what to consider before you sign a contract:
1. Type and capacity
A lightweight electric truck for small indoor jobs will naturally cost less than a 7-ton diesel beast used outdoors.
| Forklift Type | Example Capacity | Typical Monthly Lease (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Small electric counterbalance | 1.5–2.0 t | £150–£350 |
| Mid-range diesel or LPG forklift | 3–4 t | £400–£550 |
| Heavy outdoor diesel forklift | 5–7 t+ | £600–£900 |
2. Contract length
Longer leases (3–5 years) usually mean lower monthly payments. Short-term hires (1–6 months) are more expensive per month but offer flexibility for temporary projects.
3. Maintenance and servicing
Some leasing plans are “fully maintained”, meaning Kelvin Forklifts handles all servicing, tyres, and safety inspections. Others are “non-maintained” - cheaper upfront, but you cover servicing costs yourself.
If reliability matters (and it should), the fully maintained route often pays off.
4. Power type
Electric forklifts are increasingly popular in the UK, but battery maintenance and charging infrastructure can influence overall cost. Diesel and LPG models may be cheaper to lease, but cost more to run.
5. Brand and specification
Premium brands such as Toyota, Linde, and Jungheinrich often come with higher lease rates because of their global recognition and established dealer networks.
Kelvin Forklifts, designed in the UK and precision-manufactured in China, offers a smarter alternative, premium performance without the inflated price tag.
You still get outstanding reliability, efficiency, and support, all backed by our excellent customer service team and top-rated Trustpilot reviews.
How to estimate your forklift lease cost
A good rule of thumb: monthly lease ≈ (10–15% of the machine’s retail price ÷ contract months), plus servicing or insurance.
For instance:
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A £15,000 electric forklift on a 3-year lease → roughly £320–£380 / month.
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A £25,000 heavy diesel forklift on a 5-year lease → roughly £450–£550 / month.
Add maintenance, transport, or battery replacement if not included.
Why lease with Kelvin Forklifts
Kelvin Forklifts makes leasing straightforward and transparent. We offer:
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Tailored lease options from 12 months to 5 years
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Fully maintained packages for worry-free operation
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A fleet covering lithium and lead-acid models
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Nationwide delivery and on-site servicing
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Support for small businesses and large warehouse operations alike
Example: A Midlands distribution client needed two 3-ton electric forklifts on a 36-month lease. Their tailored plan came to £310 per month, including maintenance, tyre replacement, and safety inspections - all handled by Kelvin’s in-house team.
FAQs about forklift leasing in the UK
Do monthly lease costs include servicing?
Usually yes, if you choose a “fully maintained” lease. Always confirm before signing.
Can I upgrade or change the forklift mid-lease?
Yes - Kelvin Forklifts offers flexible upgrade options if your needs change.
Are there tax benefits to leasing?
Yes. Lease payments are often fully deductible as an operating expense, helping with cash-flow management.
What happens at the end of the lease?
You can extend, swap for a newer model, or return the forklift - depending on your agreement.
Final thoughts
Forklift leasing gives UK businesses a practical way to stay efficient, safe, and up to date without locking up capital.
The right lease depends on your usage, environment, and service expectations, and that’s where Kelvin Forklifts can help.
