Forklift propane tanks come in two standard sizes: the 8-gallon (33-pound) tank and the 10-gallon (43-pound) tank. The 8-gallon tank holds approximately 7.4 to 7.9 gallons of propane, while the 10-gallon tank holds approximately 10 gallons of propane [0†L5-L8][4†L16-L19][0†L25].
Standard Tank Capacities
Tank Size Propane Capacity Typical Runtime Common Use
8-Gallon (33 lb) 7.4 – 7.9 gallons ~8 hours Standard forklifts, reach stackers, pallet jacks
10-Gallon (43 lb) ~10 gallons ~6 hours Larger forklift engines, heavy-duty applications
Approximately 90% of propane-fueled forklifts use the 8-gallon (33-pound) tank, which typically lasts an average of eight hours per fill [4†L19-L22]. The 10-gallon tank is used for larger forklift engines and accounts for about 5% of the market, running for approximately six hours [4†L23-L28].
Tank Dimensions and Weight
Tank Size Height Diameter Empty Weight (Steel) Full Weight (Steel)
8-Gallon (33 lb) 29″ 13″ ~35 lbs ~69 lbs
10-Gallon (43 lb) 33″ 12.5″ ~36 lbs ~76 lbs
Aluminum tanks are significantly lighter: an empty 8-gallon aluminum tank weighs approximately 22 pounds, compared to 35 pounds for steel [4†L32-L34][0†L20-L22].
Important Note: Not All Tanks Are the Same
Do not use a standard grill tank on a forklift. Forklift tanks use a liquid draw system, while grill tanks use a vapor draw system. Using the wrong type can cause the engine to receive liquid propane instead of vapor, creating a serious fire hazard.
The bottom line: Standard forklift propane tanks hold approximately 7.4 to 7.9 gallons (8-gallon/33 lb tank) or 10 gallons (10-gallon/43 lb tank). The 8-gallon tank is used by about 90% of propane forklifts and provides approximately 8 hours of runtime. Always use a tank specifically designed for forklift use with a liquid draw system—never use a grill tank.