A multi-directional forklift is a specialized material handling machine designed to move long, bulky, and awkward loads—such as steel beams, timber, and piping—through tight spaces. Unlike standard forklifts, these machines can travel forward, sideways, and diagonally, and often perform in-aisle turns. This unique capability combines the functions of a counterbalanced forklift, side loader, and very narrow aisle (VNA) truck into a single, versatile vehicle. They are essential for industries like steel, timber, aluminum, and logistics, where maximizing storage density and navigating narrow aisles (as tight as 1.5 meters) is critical.
Key Manufacturers and Models
The market for multi-directional forklifts is specialized, with a few dominant global leaders and several regional specialists.
Manufacturer Key Models & Series Notable Features / Capacity
Combilift C-Series (C5000XL, C14000, C22000ET, C30000)
CB Range (Combi-CB 155E, CB4E, CB6000)
Combi-MR / MR4 (2500kg - 4500kg) Global leader in multi-directional forklifts.
Combi-CB 155E: World's most compact 15,500 lb capacity counterbalance forklift.
C30000: 30,000 lbs capacity.
C14000: 14,000 kg (30,800 lbs) capacity.
HUBTEX FluX Series (FluX 30, FluX 45)
MAXX Series (MAXX 50, MAXX 60)
MSL Series (MSL 50)
PHOENIX Series Specializes in multidirectional sideloaders.
FluX 30: Compact electric 3-wheel counterbalance forklift for indoor/outdoor use.
MAXX 50: 5-tonne capacity electric multidirectional sideloader.
Cat Lift Trucks NRM20N2, NRM25N2 Multi-directional reach trucks for agile warehouse solutions.
Kpluslift KFB15/20/25/30 3t Electric Multi Directional Forklift.
LTMG 2025 Multi-Directional Electric Forklift 4-way side loader with lithium battery, capacities from 3,000–3,500 kg.
STMA 4 Ton 4000kg Narrow Aisle Truck Multi-direction four directional electric reach forklift.
HUBMAX RSEW120S, RSEW125 2 to 2.5-ton multi-direction forklifts.
Other notable brands in the sector include Genkinger, Bulmor, Bendi, Drexel, Systraplan, and Hoppecke. Chinese manufacturers like HANGZHOU FUPIA MACHINERY and Anhui Younglift are also prominent players.
How Much Does a Multi-Directional Forklift Cost?
Due to their specialized nature, multi-directional forklifts represent a significant investment. Prices vary dramatically based on brand, capacity, power source, and condition (new vs. used).
New Models:
A new 2025 Combilift WR-4 (2,000 kg / 4,409 lb capacity) has a retail price of $40,501.
A Kpluslift 3t Electric Multi Directional Forklift is priced around $26,550.
A 4-ton STMA multi-directional electric reach forklift is listed at $51,907.
Used Models:
A 2020 Combilift CB6000 (6,000 lb capacity, 8,218 hours) is listed for $44,950.
A Combilift CB6000 can range from $24,995 to $109,950 depending on condition and hours.
Rental:
Daily rental rates can be high, with one listing for a Combilift at $1,148/day.
How Much Does a Multi-Directional Forklift Weigh?
The weight of these machines is substantial, reflecting their heavy-duty construction and counterbalancing requirements. Weight is directly correlated with lift capacity.
Model Capacity Weight (without load)
Combilift C5000XL 5,000 kg (11,023 lbs) 7,200 kg (15,873 lbs)
Combilift COMBI-CB4E 4,000 - 4,500 kg (8,818 - 9,920 lbs) 8,750 kg (19,290 lbs)
Combilift COMBI-MR 2,500 kg (5,511 lbs) 5,000 kg (11,023 lbs)
BT FRE 270 2,700 kg 3.37 t (7,430 lbs)
Baka EFY 25/08/40 A 2,500 kg 5.5 t (12,125 lbs)
Sichelschmidt M 925 ASM 2,500 kg 3.7 t (8,157 lbs)
HUBMAX RSEW125 2.5 Ton 4,400 kg (9,700 lbs) (including battery)
Generic 3-ton Model 3,000 kg 7,750 kg (17,086 lbs) (including battery)
In short, multi-directional forklifts are indispensable for industries handling long or bulky materials in confined spaces. While they represent a considerable investment, with new models starting around $26,000** and exceeding **$50,000 for larger units, their ability to increase storage density and improve safety often justifies the cost. Weights typically range from 3.5 to over 8.5 tons, with larger capacity models weighing significantly more.