How much does a Forklift Driver make?
Forklift drivers play a key role in many industries, from manufacturing to logistics. They earn a solid salary that reflects their important work. The average yearly salary for a forklift driver is around $38,899. This means that, on average, forklift drivers make a good living.
Salary for forklift drivers can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience often earn more. Here are some average salaries for different experience levels:
- Entry-level: $29,500
- Mid-level: $37,707
- Senior-level: $45,915
What are the highest paying cities for a Forklift Driver?

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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $49,050
In Worcester, MA, operating a forklift offers a stable career with good pay. Companies like MassMutual and UMASS Memorial Health provide many job opportunities. The city's growing industries make it a great place for forklift operators.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $46,669
Sacramento, CA, is a bustling city with many forklift jobs. Companies like Raley's and Blue Shield of California need skilled drivers. The city's diverse economy offers many opportunities for forklift operators.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $45,288
Denver, CO, has a thriving job market for forklift drivers. With companies like King Soopers and Xcel Energy, there are many opportunities. The city's vibrant economy makes it a great place for forklift operators.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $45,268
Fargo, ND, offers a steady job market for forklift drivers. Companies like Walmart and Target provide many opportunities. The city's growing industries make it a good place for forklift operators.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $44,943
Portland, OR, has a strong demand for forklift drivers. Companies like Fred Meyer and Costco offer many job openings. The city's diverse economy provides many opportunities for forklift operators.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $44,610
Los Angeles, CA, is a major hub for forklift jobs. Companies like Amazon and UPS need skilled drivers. The city's large industries offer many opportunities for forklift operators.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $43,898
Minneapolis, MN, offers a stable job market for forklift drivers. Companies like Target and Cargill provide many opportunities. The city's growing industries make it a great place for forklift operators.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,816
Seattle, WA, has a strong demand for forklift drivers. Companies like Amazon and Costco offer many job openings. The city's diverse economy provides many opportunities for forklift operators.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $42,736
Las Vegas, NV, offers a vibrant job market for forklift drivers. Companies like MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment need skilled drivers. The city's growing industries make it a good place for forklift operators.
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Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $42,500
Cedar Rapids, IA, has a steady job market for forklift drivers. Companies like Rockwell Collins and Hy-Vee provide many opportunities. The city's diverse industries make it a good place for forklift operators.
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What are the best companies a Forklift Driver can work for?

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Piping Rock Health Products
Average Salary: $53,969
Piping Rock Health Products offers competitive salaries for Forklift Drivers. They operate in various locations, including the USA and Canada. The company focuses on health and wellness products, requiring efficient handling and transportation.
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G3 ENTERPRISES
Average Salary: $53,504
G3 ENTERPRISES provides a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in the USA and Europe. The company specializes in logistics and transportation, needing skilled drivers to manage their operations.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $51,858
Abbott offers a solid salary for Forklift Drivers. They operate in many locations worldwide, focusing on health care products. The company requires skilled drivers to handle their extensive inventory efficiently.
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IKEA
Average Salary: $48,829
IKEA provides a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in many countries, including the USA and Europe. The company needs skilled drivers to manage their large inventory and ensure smooth operations.
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Crown Holdings
Average Salary: $48,003
Crown Holdings offers a competitive salary for Forklift Drivers. They operate in various locations worldwide, focusing on packaging solutions. The company requires skilled drivers to handle their products efficiently.
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Packaging Corporation of America
Average Salary: $47,413
Packaging Corporation of America provides a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in the USA and Canada. The company specializes in packaging solutions and needs skilled drivers to manage their inventory.
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Best Buy
Average Salary: $47,185
Best Buy offers a solid salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in the USA and Canada. The company focuses on electronics and appliances, requiring skilled drivers to handle their inventory efficiently.
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Costco Wholesale
Average Salary: $46,918
Costco Wholesale provides a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in the USA and Canada. The company specializes in wholesale products, needing skilled drivers to manage their inventory.
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Baldwin Richardson Foods
Average Salary: $46,000
Baldwin Richardson Foods offers a competitive salary for Forklift Drivers. They operate in the USA, focusing on food products. The company requires skilled drivers to handle their inventory efficiently.
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Cameron Ashley Building Products
Average Salary: $45,400
Cameron Ashley Building Products offers a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in the USA and Canada. The company specializes in building products, needing skilled drivers to manage their inventory.
How to earn more as a Forklift Driver?
Becoming a skilled forklift driver can lead to a rewarding career with good earning potential. To maximize your earnings, consider these key factors:
- Experience: Gaining experience in different industries can increase your value. Employers often pay more for drivers with a proven track record.
- Certifications: Obtaining forklift operator certifications can boost your pay. Certifications show you have the skills needed to operate safely and efficiently.
- Location: Wages can vary by region. Working in areas with higher living costs often means higher pay.
- Specialization: Specializing in certain types of forklifts or materials can make you more in-demand. This can lead to higher wages.
- Night and Weekend Work: Working outside of regular hours can come with higher pay rates. This can be a good way to increase your earnings.
Focusing on these areas can help forklift drivers earn more. Building experience, getting certified, and being flexible with your schedule can all lead to better-paying opportunities. Always look for ways to improve your skills and stay updated on industry trends.