Forklift counterweights are available through multiple channels: used parts dealers for budget-friendly replacements, OEM and aftermarket manufacturers for new or custom units, and complete forklifts that include the counterweight as part of the machine. Below is a comprehensive overview of sourcing options, representative pricing, and key considerations.
Used Counterweights – Parts Dealers and Marketplaces
Used counterweights offer the most cost-effective option for replacement, typically priced significantly below new castings.
Source Item Price Notes
N C Machinery Caterpillar counterweight (used, good condition) $285 Shipping weight: 190 lbs; stock #19620-90
Machinio Various used forklift counterweights Price on request Search by manufacturer (Caterpillar, Royal, etc.)
Key Platforms for Used Counterweights:
Machinio – Search "forklift counterweight" by brand (Caterpillar, Royal, etc.)
N C Machinery – Used Caterpillar parts including counterweights
ThomasNet – Industrial supplier directory with counterweight listings
New and Custom Counterweight Manufacturers
For new, custom, or OEM-spec counterweights, several manufacturers specialize in cast iron, steel, and lead-filled designs.
Manufacturer Specialization Capabilities Key Details
Blackwood Engineering Iron and steel counterweights Up to 7 tonnes; custom designs; grey iron using vacuum/lost foam processes Over 75 years experience; works with machinery OEMs; full design-to-delivery service
MarsMetal Specialty Casting Custom lead, cast iron, and steel counterweights 100 to over 100,000 lbs; custom mold creation; ISO 9001:2015 certified Specializes in forklift counterweights; over 40 years expertise; made in USA
Swebor Counterweights Steel counterweights 220mm profile; high-density applications Focus on space-constrained applications
Cullman Casting Corp Gray iron counterweights Forklift and off-road vehicle counterweights U.S.-based gray iron foundry
Jinggong Grey cast iron (HT100–HT300) and ductile iron Custom forklift counterweights Designed using best-in-class raw materials
Chinese Manufacturers (B2B Platforms):
Made-in-China.com – Cast iron counterweights from 1–17 tonnes; custom sizes up to 4,300mm
NYD Casting – Grey cast iron (EN-GJL-250); density 7.1–7.3 g/cm³; cost-effective
Tanghe Casting – Cast iron and steel plate counterweights; weight range 5–20,000 kg
Complete Forklifts – Counterweight Included
Some listings for complete forklifts specify counterweight details, which can be useful for understanding weight specifications or purchasing a complete unit.
Model Counterweight Spec Price Source
2026 Royal RNL 100/140 42,300 lbs (9 sections @ 4,700 lbs each) Contact seller Machinio
Royal Rig-N-Lift 80/100 Extendable counterweight design Contact seller Machinio
Price Reference – What to Expect
Type Price Range Notes
Used Caterpillar counterweight ~$285 Good used condition, 190 lbs shipping weight
Cast iron counterweight (bulk) ~$700/ton Standard pricing for new cast iron counterweights
Custom lead-filled counterweight Varies Custom designs from 100–100,000+ lbs
Complete forklift with counterweight $25,000+ Price depends on capacity and configuration
Key Buying Considerations
1. Verify Fitment
Counterweights are model-specific. Before purchasing, confirm:
Forklift make, model, and serial number
Counterweight dimensions (length, width, height)
Mounting bolt pattern and hardware requirements
Weight specification (too light compromises stability; too heavy may exceed axle ratings)
2. Material Selection
Cast iron – Industry standard; 7.1–7.3 g/cm³ density; cost-effective
Steel – Higher density (7.8 g/cm³); more compact than cast iron
Lead-filled – Maximum density in minimum space; premium cost
3. Safety and Compliance
Counterweight modifications require written manufacturer approval per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(6)
Custom counterweights must maintain the forklift's stability triangle
Always use manufacturer-specified mounting hardware and torque specifications
4. Shipping and Logistics
Counterweights are heavy (typically 400–42,000+ lbs)
Factor in freight costs and lifting equipment for unloading
Blackwood Engineering offers logistics and inventory management services
Summary
Forklift counterweights are available through used parts dealers (N C Machinery – Caterpillar counterweight, $285), custom manufacturers (**Blackwood Engineering** – up to 7 tonnes; **MarsMetal** – 100–100,000+ lbs, custom lead/cast iron), and Chinese B2B suppliers (1–17 tonnes, cast iron). Cast iron counterweights cost approximately **$700/ton** new, with used units significantly less. When purchasing, verify fitment by make/model, confirm material specifications, and ensure compliance with OSHA requirements for counterweight modifications. For custom applications, manufacturers like Blackwood Engineering offer end-to-end design and supply chain services.