Cat (Caterpillar) off‑road forklifts are purpose‑built for the most demanding outdoor environments—construction sites, lumber yards, farms, and industrial facilities where uneven terrain, mud, and rough ground are the norm. Unlike standard warehouse forklifts, these machines feature large pneumatic tires, high ground clearance, powerful diesel engines, and 4‑wheel drive options to handle challenging conditions.
Cat’s off‑road lineup falls primarily into two categories: rough terrain forklifts (traditional vertical‑mast lift trucks) and telehandlers (telescopic boom forklifts). This guide covers the full range of models, specifications, and buying considerations for 2026.
Rough Terrain Forklifts – V Series & Other Models
Cat’s traditional rough terrain forklifts are designed for heavy lifting on uneven surfaces. These machines feature vertical masts, rugged chassis, and large pneumatic tires.
V300B (30,000 lb Capacity)
The V300B is a heavy‑duty rough terrain forklift built for extreme loads.
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 30,000 lbs (13,600 kg)
Max Fork Height 18 ft (5.5 m)
Engine CAT 3208 Diesel
Drive Hydrostatic Drive
Rear Mast Tilt 12 degrees
ROPS 4‑post with canopy
Tires Dual front off‑road tires
Year 2000
Class 7 Lift Truck Classification
Cat rough terrain forklifts belong to Class 7 lift trucks. These machines are engineered specifically for difficult terrain that conventional pneumatic‑tire forklifts cannot traverse. Key features across the lineup include:
4‑wheel drive for traction in muddy, soft, or bumpy conditions
High ground clearance to navigate uneven surfaces
Large pneumatic tires with aggressive tread patterns
Hydrostatic or powershift transmissions for precise control
Telehandlers – TH Series & TL Series
Cat telehandlers combine the lifting capability of a forklift with the reach of a crane. These machines feature telescopic booms that extend forward and upward, making them ideal for placing materials at height or reaching over obstacles.
TH255C – Compact Telehandler
The TH255C is a super‑compact telehandler designed for narrow spaces and low buildings.
Specification Detail
Rated Load Capacity 5,512 lbs (2,500 kg)
Maximum Lift Height 18.37 ft (5.6 m)
Engine TD 2.9L L4, 55 kW (74 hp)
Transmission Hydrostatic
Maximum Forward Reach 10.83 ft (3.3 m)
Top Travel Speed 15 mph (24 km/h)
Tires Standard 12.00 × 16.5
TH406 – Mid‑Range Telehandler
The TH406 is a versatile telehandler with high ground clearance and rugged performance.
Specification Detail
Ground Clearance Up to 19 in (486 mm)
Rated Load Capacity 8,800 lbs (4,000 kg)
Maximum Lift Height 24.9 ft (7.6 m)
Maximum Forward Reach 14.1 ft (4.3 m)
Turning Radius 12.6 ft (3.8 m)
TH514D – High‑Capacity Telehandler
The TH514D features a three‑section boom for extended reach and lifting capability.
Specification Detail
Rated Load Capacity 11,000 lbs (4,990 kg)
Maximum Lift Height 45.6 ft (13.88 m)
Maximum Forward Reach 32.1 ft (10 m)
Engine Cat C3.4B, 75 kW (100 hp)
Emissions U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final
Max Torque 420 N·m @ 1,400 rpm
Operating Weight 26,211 lbs (11,889 kg)
Ground Clearance High, with limited slip differential locks
Turning Radius 12.9 ft (3.9 m)
Tires Standard Mitas 14.00‑24 16PR Air
TL943 – 9,000 lb Telehandler
The TL943 is a versatile telehandler designed for tough working conditions.
Specification Detail
Rated Load Capacity 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg)
Maximum Lift Height 43 ft (13.1 m)
Capacity at Max Lift Height 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg)
Maximum Forward Reach 31 ft (9.4 m)
Capacity at Max Reach 1,200 lbs (544 kg)
Engine Cat C3.6L, 73.7–111 hp
Emissions U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final
Operating Weight 25,750 lbs (11,680 kg)
Top Travel Speed 18 mph (29 km/h)
Turning Radius 12 ft (3.7 m)
Ground Clearance 17 in (432 mm)
Width 8 ft (2,470 mm)
Fuel Tank 38 gal (US)
TL1055C – High‑Reach Telehandler
The TL1055C is designed for maximum performance in the toughest working conditions.
Specification Detail
Rated Load Capacity 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg)
Maximum Lift Height 55.1 ft (16.8 m)
Capacity at Max Height 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
Maximum Forward Reach 42.5 ft (12.95 m)
Capacity at Max Reach 2,500 lbs (1,100 kg)
Engine Cat C4.4 ACERT™, Tier 4 Interim
Gross Power 142.1 hp (106 kW)
Operating Weight 34,160 lbs (15,495 kg)
Top Travel Speed 20.4 mph (32.8 km/h)
Turning Radius 14.1 ft (4.3 m)
Ground Clearance 18 in (457 mm)
Width 8.4 ft (2,560 mm)
Fuel Tank 38 gal (US)
TH1255 – Ultra‑High Reach Telehandler
The TH1255 offers the highest lift capacity and reach in Cat’s telehandler lineup.
Specification Detail
Rated Load Capacity 12,000 lbs (5,443 kg)
Maximum Lift Height 54.6 ft (16.6 m)
Maximum Forward Reach 41 ft (12.5 m)
Frame Leveling 10 degrees
Key Features Across Cat Off‑Road Forklifts
Terrain Capability
High ground clearance (up to 19 inches on some models)
Limited slip differential locks for traction in difficult conditions
4‑wheel drive options on many models
Large pneumatic tires with aggressive tread patterns
Power and Performance
Diesel engines with Tier 4 Final emissions compliance
Hydrostatic or powershift transmissions for smooth operation
Load‑sensing hydraulic systems for fuel efficiency
High travel speeds up to 20.4 mph
Operator Environment
Spacious, ergonomic cabs with suspension seats
Single electronic joystick for boom control
Excellent visibility through advanced cab design
ROPS/EROPS protection for operator safety
Versatility
Multiple attachment options including pallet forks, lumber forks, and buckets
Universal quick coupler compatibility on many models
Multi‑function boom control with flow‑sharing hydraulics
2026 Pricing and Availability
Cat off‑road forklift prices vary significantly based on model, age, condition, and configuration.
New Units
New Cat off‑road forklifts and telehandlers are available through authorized Cat dealers. Pricing depends on specifications, attachments, and regional factors. For accurate quotes, contact a local dealer.
Used Market
Used Cat off‑road equipment is widely available through auctions and equipment marketplaces.
Model Year / Condition Price
V300B Rough Terrain Forklift 2000, 2,448 hrs, non‑runner $3,500 (auction)
Used Cat Forklifts (General) Various $20,900 – $31,500
Note: Used units are typically sold "as‑is, where‑is" with no warranty. Always inspect equipment in person before bidding.
Buying Considerations
1. Choose the Right Type
Rough Terrain Forklift (V Series) : Best for vertical lifting of heavy loads on uneven ground. Ideal for lumber yards, construction sites, and material yards.
Telehandler (TH/TL Series) : Best for applications requiring reach—placing materials at height, loading trucks, or accessing hard‑to‑reach areas.
2. Assess Capacity and Reach Requirements
Determine your maximum load weight and required lift height. Telehandlers like the TL1055C offer 55‑foot lift height, while the TH1255 provides 12,000 lb capacity.
3. Evaluate Terrain Conditions
For extremely muddy or soft ground, prioritize models with 4‑wheel drive and limited slip differentials.
4. Consider Attachments
Telehandlers can use a wide range of attachments—pallet forks, lumber forks, buckets, and work platforms. Choose a model compatible with your required attachments.
5. Factor in Total Cost of Ownership
Consider fuel consumption, maintenance intervals, parts availability, and expected lifespan—not just the purchase price.
Finding a Dealer
Cat products are sold through authorized dealers worldwide. In the United States, major dealers include:
Quinn Company – Serving Los Angeles and Southern California
HOLT CAT – Serving Texas and surrounding regions
To find a dealer near you, visit caterpillar.com and use the dealer locator.
Summary
Cat off‑road forklifts offer a comprehensive range of solutions for demanding outdoor material handling. The V Series rough terrain forklifts provide traditional vertical‑mast lifting with capacities up to 30,000 lbs. The TH Series and TL Series telehandlers deliver telescopic reach with capacities from 5,500 to 12,000 lbs and lift heights from 18 to 55 feet. With features like high ground clearance, 4‑wheel drive, Tier 4 Final diesel engines, and versatile attachment compatibility, Cat off‑road forklifts are engineered to perform in the toughest conditions.