Cat (Caterpillar) offers a range of 3-tonne (3,000 kg / 6,600 lb) capacity forklifts across diesel, electric, and LPG power sources. This guide covers the key models, specifications, and pricing for Cat's 3-ton class forklifts in 2026.
Model Lineup Overview
Cat's 3-ton forklifts are available in three primary configurations:
Model Series Power Source Production Years Key Applications
DP30N Diesel 2019–2026 Heavy outdoor, industrial logistics, construction
EC30N Electric (48V) 2021–2026 Indoor warehouses, zero-emission operations
GPH30N LPG 2022–2026 Mixed indoor/outdoor, distribution
EP30CB Electric (72V) Current Medium to heavy-duty, indoor/light outdoor
DP30N – Diesel Forklift
The DP30N is Cat's diesel-powered 3-ton workhorse, built for demanding outdoor applications.
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 3,000 kg (3.0 t)
Load Center 500 mm
Engine Mitsubishi S4S, 35.3 kW
Weight 4.35 tonnes
Total Width 1,690 mm (66.5 in)
Construction Height 2,015 mm (79.3 in)
Turning Radius 2.38 m
Lifting Height 3.0 m (standard)
Travel Speed (loaded/unloaded) 19 / 19.5 km/h
Max Climbing Ability 45%
Standard Tires (Front/Rear) 28x9-15-12 / 6.50-10-10
Production Years 2019 – 2026
Source: LECTURA specs
DP30N Features:
Available with simplex, duplex, or triplex masts up to 7 meters lift height
Pneumatic or solid tires
Stage V diesel engine with 40% reduction in fine particle emissions
Presence Detection System (PDS) for operator safety
Average fuel consumption: 3.2 L/h
Turning radius of just 2.3 to 2.4 meters
EC30N – Electric Forklift
The EC30N is Cat's 48V electric counterbalance forklift for zero-emission indoor operations.
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 3,000 kg (3.0 t)
Load Center 500 mm
Voltage 48 V
Traction Motor 16.5 kW
Hoist Motor 17.3 kW
Weight (with battery) 4.82 tonnes
Battery Weight 1.41 tonnes
Total Width 1,103 mm (43.4 in)
Construction Height 2,235 mm (88.0 in)
Turning Radius 2.0 m
Lifting Height 3.31 m
Travel Speed (loaded/unloaded) 18.2 / 18.2 km/h
Standard Tires (Front/Rear) 21x8x15 / 16x6x10.5
Production Years 2021 – 2026
Source: LECTURA specs
GPH30N – LPG Forklift
The GPH30N is Cat's LPG-powered forklift, offering a cleaner alternative to diesel for mixed indoor/outdoor use.
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 3,000 kg (3.0 t)
Load Center 500 mm
Engine Kubota WG2503, 42.7 kW
Displacement 2.49 L, 4-cylinder
Weight 4.58 tonnes
Total Width 1,320 mm (52.0 in)
Construction Height 2,325 mm (91.5 in)
Turning Radius 2.39 m
Lifting Height 3.3 m
Travel Speed (loaded/unloaded) 22 / 22 km/h
Max Climbing Ability 30%
Standard Tires (Front/Rear) 27x10-12 / 6.50-10
Production Years 2022 – 2026
Source: LECTURA specs
EP30CB – 72V Electric Forklift
The EP30CB is Cat's 72V electric counterbalance forklift, offering higher torque for heavier applications.
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 3,000 kg (3.0 t)
Load Center 500 mm
Voltage 72 V
Wheelbase 1,680 mm
Standard Lift Height 3,000 mm
Max Lift Height Up to 7,000 mm (with triplex mast)
Tires Solid Pneumatic (Superelastic)
IP Rating IPX4 waterproofing
Safety Features Presence Detection System (PDS)
Steering Electric Hydraulic Power Steering
Source: Belialat
2026 Pricing Guide
Model Power Condition Price Source
DP30N3 Diesel New From €30,100 excl. VAT* Aprolis
DP30NT Diesel Used (2021, 1,393 hrs) Contact seller Machinio
DP30N Diesel Used (2007, auction) Auction price RB Auction
EC30N Electric Used Market price LECTURA
GPH30N LPG Used Market price LECTURA
*Indicative prices for standard configuration, excluding options. Final price varies according to mast, tires, cab, and hydraulic accessories.
General Used Price Range: $10,000 – $50,000 depending on age, hours, and condition.
Key Features Across Cat 3-Ton Forklifts
Diesel Models (DP30N):
Stage V engines with 40% reduction in fine particle emissions
15% reduction in fuel consumption compared to previous generations
Noise level reduced to 79 dB(A)
High-capacity cooling system and elevated air intake
Components certified for 12,000 hours of intensive use
Fast refueling in 5–10 minutes
Excellent traction: ability to climb slopes up to 31%
Electric Models (EC30N, EP30CB):
Zero emissions, quiet operation
Regenerative braking for extended battery life
ECO performance mode
Presence Detection System (PDS) – prevents movement if operator is not seated
IPX4 waterproofing on EP30CB for light outdoor use
LPG Models (GPH30N):
Cleaner than diesel, suitable for indoor use with ventilation
Kubota engine with proven reliability
Buying Considerations
1. Choose the Right Power Source
Diesel (DP30N): Best for heavy outdoor use, construction sites, and rough terrain
Electric (EC30N, EP30CB): Ideal for indoor warehouses with zero-emission requirements
LPG (GPH30N): Suitable for mixed indoor/outdoor operations where emissions are a concern
2. Evaluate Mast Configuration
Standard masts offer 3.0 m lift height
Duplex and triplex masts available up to 7 meters
3. Check Tire Type
Pneumatic tires for outdoor use
Solid/superelastic tires for indoor or mixed use
4. Consider Total Cost of Ownership
Diesel: Higher fuel costs but lower upfront price
Electric: Higher upfront cost but lower operating costs
LPG: Balanced middle ground
5. Verify Inclusions
When comparing prices, confirm what is included:
Mast configuration (simplex, duplex, or triplex)
Fork dimensions
Attachments (side shifters, fork positioners)
Battery and charger (for electric models)
6. Used vs. New
Used Cat 3-ton forklifts can save 30–50% compared to new units
Inspect hour meter, engine/battery health, mast wear, and hydraulic system
Summary
Cat's 3-ton forklift lineup offers solutions for virtually every application. The DP30N diesel model provides rugged outdoor performance with a 45% climbing ability and 3.2 L/h fuel consumption. The EC30N electric model delivers zero-emission indoor capability with 48V power and 18.2 km/h travel speed. The GPH30N LPG model offers a versatile middle ground with a Kubota 42.7 kW engine. The EP30CB electric model features a 72V system for higher torque and IPX4 waterproofing for light outdoor use. New diesel units start from €30,100 (~$32,500 USD) excl. VAT, while used units range from **$10,000 to $50,000** depending on condition. When selecting a Cat 3-ton forklift, prioritize matching the power source to your operating environment and calculating total cost of ownership—not just the purchase price.
