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How High Does a 3-Stage Forklift Go? A Complete Lift Height Guide

Published time：

2026-06-29

Author：

Xin Hong Guang

Source：

Xin Hong Guang

Abstract

A 3-stage forklift mast (also called a triplex mast) typically reaches between 13 and 21 feet (4,000 to 6,500 mm). However, some heavy-duty configurations can exceed 21 feet (6,500 mm), with specific models reaching up to 252 inches (21 feet). The exact lift height depends on the forklift's specific model, capacity, and mast configuration.Typical Lift Height RangesMast Configuration Typical Lift Height (mm) Typical Lift Height (ft/in)Standard 3-Stage Mast 4,000 – 6,000 mm 13.1 – 19.7 ft3-Stage Full Free Lift Mast 4,305 – 6,005 mm 14.1 – 19.7 ftHigh-Lift 3-Stage Mast 157 – 213 inches 13.1 – 17.8 ftHeavy-Duty 3-Stage Mast Up to 252 inches Up to 21.0 ftReal-World ExamplesForklift Model Mast Type Max Lift Height SourceClark C80D900 Triplex 5,430 mm (17.8 ft) Yale ERC060 3-Stage FFL 187 inches (15.6 ft) Unspecified Electric 3-Stage 193 inches (16.1 ft) Unspecified IC 3-Stage 252 inches (21.0 ft) Unspecified Electric 3-Stage 195 inches (16.3 ft) What Is a 3-Stage Mast?A 3-stage mast cons

A 3-stage forklift mast (also called a triplex mast) typically reaches between 13 and 21 feet (4,000 to 6,500 mm). However, some heavy-duty configurations can exceed 21 feet (6,500 mm), with specific models reaching up to 252 inches (21 feet). The exact lift height depends on the forklift's specific model, capacity, and mast configuration.


Typical Lift Height Ranges

Mast Configuration Typical Lift Height (mm) Typical Lift Height (ft/in)

Standard 3-Stage Mast 4,000 – 6,000 mm 13.1 – 19.7 ft

3-Stage Full Free Lift Mast 4,305 – 6,005 mm 14.1 – 19.7 ft

High-Lift 3-Stage Mast 157 – 213 inches 13.1 – 17.8 ft

Heavy-Duty 3-Stage Mast Up to 252 inches Up to 21.0 ft

Real-World Examples

Forklift Model Mast Type Max Lift Height Source

Clark C80D900 Triplex 5,430 mm (17.8 ft)

Yale ERC060 3-Stage FFL 187 inches (15.6 ft)

Unspecified Electric 3-Stage 193 inches (16.1 ft)

Unspecified IC 3-Stage 252 inches (21.0 ft)

Unspecified Electric 3-Stage 195 inches (16.3 ft)

What Is a 3-Stage Mast?

A 3-stage mast consists of three nested sections that telescope upward. This design provides significantly higher lift than a 2-stage mast while maintaining a lower collapsed height for travel through doorways.


Key Measurements:


Maximum Fork Height: The highest point the forks can reach


Collapsed Height: The mast height when fully lowered


Free Lift: How far forks rise before the mast extends


Extended Height: Total mast height at full extension


Factors Affecting Lift Height

Mast Configuration – Different 3-stage mast variants offer different lift heights. Full free lift masts provide additional clearance for low-clearance environments.


Forklift Capacity – Higher capacity models often have taller mast options. Hyundai's BE-X series offers 3-stage masts with lift heights from 4,305 mm to 6,005 mm depending on the specific model.


Tire Type – Pneumatic tires increase overall height, which can affect mast clearance.


Attachment Use – Attachments like side shifters or fork positioners may slightly reduce effective lift height.


The bottom line: A 3-stage forklift mast typically lifts between 13 and 21 feet (4,000 to 6,500 mm). Standard models reach 4,000–6,000 mm, while heavy-duty configurations can exceed 21 feet (6,500 mm). Always check your forklift's data plate for the exact maximum fork height and never exceed the rated capacity at full extension.

Keywords：
how high does a 3 stage forklift go
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