Trends in the used forklift truck market in 2026 – What businesses and buyers need to know
08 January 2026 - The forklift truck market landscape in 2026 will be characterised by technological innovation, sustainability and structural shifts in demand — including in the used equipment segment. These trends are reflected in the way forklift trucks are used, sought after and reused.
1. Strong focus on electrification and sustainability
A key trend across the entire forklift truck market is the growing shift from internal combustion engines to electric drives. Electric forklift trucks are becoming increasingly important due to their zero-emission operation, lower running costs and greater suitability for indoor use.
- Electric models already dominate the market and are continuing to grow as companies implement sustainability targets and stricter emissions standards. Lithium-ion batteries, with their fast charging times and high energy efficiency, are a key driver of this trend.
- This trend is also affecting the second-hand market, as older combustion-engine forklifts are being replaced and electric forklifts are being taken out of service more frequently — which is increasing the supply in the second-hand sector.
Trend benefits for 2026:
- Demand for second-hand electric models is growing, as they help to reduce overall running costs.
- Battery technologies such as lithium-ion enable longer operating times with shorter charging times, which increases the appeal of second-hand electric forklifts.
2. Digitalisation, telematics & connected fleets
Modern fleet management trends are also shaping the used vehicle market:
- Technologies such as telematics, IoT sensors and real-time monitoring are increasingly being integrated into forklift trucks to optimise operating hours, maintenance cycles and energy consumption on the basis of data.
- These smart components increase the value of used forklifts by providing transparency regarding their condition and usage history — a key factor in purchasing decisions in the second-hand market.
Trend benefits for 2026:
- Second-hand devices with telemetry are easier to assess.
- Companies can plan their fleets more efficiently, including when deciding whether to lease or buy.
3. Demand driven by warehouse automation and e-commerce
The rapid growth of e-commerce logistics and automated warehouse processes is having a direct impact on the forklift truck market:
- Rising online orders call for more efficient material flow solutions — including in the second-hand sector.
- The modernisation of existing fleets, including the retrofitting of semi-autonomous functions and smart sensor technology, is a growing trend.
Trend benefits for 2026:
- Companies prefer used forklifts with modular automation capabilities.
- Demand for second-hand equipment that is available quickly remains high.
4. Regional growth & market forecasts
Germany is one of the leading markets for used forklift trucks, partly due to its strong logistics and industrial infrastructure:
- The German market for used warehouse forklifts is forecast to grow at a steady rate of around 10% until 2033, which also points to high demand in 2026.
- Globally, the forklift truck market remains robust despite economic uncertainties, with a projected market size of over USD 25 billion by 2026.
5. Spare parts availability & lifecycle optimisation
A particularly significant trend for the second-hand market is the availability of spare parts and servicing:
- As electrical and digital components become more common, the supply of spare parts is also improving.
- Forklift trucks with a modular design are easier to maintain and resell — a key factor in their value on the second-hand market.
Trend benefits for 2026:
- More effective maintenance strategies extend service life.
- The resale value of used industrial trucks is rising.