Cat (Caterpillar) offers a range of mini and compact forklifts designed for tight spaces, light to medium-duty applications, and operations where maneuverability is paramount. From entry-level electric counterbalance models to compact 3-wheel forklifts and mini order pickers, Cat’s small forklift lineup delivers the durability and reliability the brand is known for in a space-saving package. This guide covers the full range of mini and compact Cat forklifts available in 2026.
EQ Line – Entry-Level Compact Electric Forklifts
Cat expanded its entry-level EQ Line in 2026, offering simple, dependable electric counterbalance trucks for less intensive jobs requiring occasional or lighter use. The range now includes EQ Line electric counterbalance models as well as an updated warehouse collection.
EQ Line Electric Counterbalance Forklifts – Cat EP16-35Q(T)(L)
These trucks are equally at home in warehouse aisles or weather-beaten yards, reducing fleet needs and investment costs. Key specifications include:
Capacities: 1.6 to 3.5 tonnes
Wheel configurations: Three or four wheels
Battery options: 48V or 80V
Battery technology: All EQ Line counterbalance and warehouse trucks come with lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology as standard
EQ Line Warehouse Equipment
The updated EQ Line warehouse collection includes:
Mini power pallet trucks
Pedestrian power pallet trucks – 1.6 and 2.0 tonnes
A platform power pallet truck
Compact pedestrian stackers – mono mast and duplex mast
Sit-on tow trucks
A mini order picker (also functioning as a safe rising work platform)
EP Series – Compact Electric Counterbalance Forklifts
EP16-20(C)N2 (1.6 – 2.0 Tonnes)
With their compact design, amazing manoeuvrability and intelligent control systems, these compact electric forklift trucks are the automatic choice when space is tight. They are ideal for efficient handling in containers, lorries, drive-in racking and other cramped, fast-paced environments.
Key features include:
Cat Responsive Drive System 2 (RDS2): Monitors and instantly reacts to changes in pedal speed, constantly adjusting performance parameters for smooth starts and stops
Advanced curve control: Enables the fastest safe cornering speed while resisting tilting
Dual drive ‘4-wheel steering’: Truck can be driven sideways without pushing back first, thanks to a +100° rear turning axle
360° steering option: Allows trucks to turn and face the opposite direction without stopping
Load-sensing hydraulic system: Automatically adjusts for weight to maintain precise control
Li-ion battery option: Adds greater efficiency, runtime, minimal maintenance, and longer life
PowerBurst option: Automatically delivers extra torque to maintain ramp speed or provide strong acceleration
EP14-20(C)N2T (1.4 – 2.0 Tonnes)
These small electric forklifts offer the same compact design and intelligent control systems as the EP16-20(C)N2 range, with capacities starting from 1.4 tonnes. They are built to stand up to harsh, wet, dirty or dusty conditions.
Compact 3-Wheel Electric Forklifts
Cat offers extremely compact 3-wheel electric forklifts designed to fit in narrow aisles and trailers. These models are available in the 2ET2500-2ET4000 series with load capacities from 2,500 to 4,000 lbs and max lift heights up to 256 inches.
Mini Order Picker – MNO1.5Q1
Cat’s mini order picker offers a safer way to climb and a quicker way to pick. Highly compact and manoeuvrable, it is ideal for light to medium order picking duties in warehouses, shops and other retail settings.
Key Advantages of Cat Mini Forklifts
Space Efficiency: Cat mini forklifts are engineered for operations where space is at a premium. Their compact dimensions enable easy maneuvering in narrow aisles, containers, and other confined spaces.
Lithium-Ion Technology: All EQ Line counterbalance and warehouse lift trucks come with Li-ion battery technology as standard, delivering longer runtimes, consistent power, no battery maintenance, and opportunity charging capability.
Intelligent Control: The Cat Responsive Drive System 2 (RDS2) constantly monitors and adjusts performance parameters, making driving easier, steadier, safer, and more comfortable.
Versatility: From mini power pallet trucks to compact stackers and mini order pickers, Cat’s mini forklift lineup covers the full spectrum of light to medium-duty material handling applications.
Durability: Despite their compact size, Cat mini forklifts feature sturdy construction, sealed components, and robust design that withstands harsh, wet, dirty, or dusty conditions.
Safety: All models are equipped with a variety of safety aids to minimise accident risks.
Summary
Cat’s mini forklift lineup offers a comprehensive range of compact material handling solutions for 2026. The EQ Line provides entry-level electric counterbalance models from 1.6 to 3.5 tonnes with lithium-ion technology as standard, along with an updated warehouse collection including mini power pallet trucks and compact stackers. The EP16-20(C)N2 and EP14-20(C)N2T series deliver compact electric counterbalance forklifts from 1.4 to 2.0 tonnes with advanced RDS2 technology, 4-wheel steering, and Li-ion battery options. Compact 3-wheel electric forklifts fit in the tightest aisles. And the MNO1.5Q1 mini order picker provides efficient order picking in retail and warehouse settings.
Whether you need a mini power pallet truck, a compact stacker, or a small electric counterbalance forklift, Cat’s mini forklift range delivers the quality, durability, and performance that define the Cat brand—in a package that fits your space.
