Combilift is an Irish manufacturer specializing in multi-directional forklifts, headquartered in Monaghan, Ireland, with a North American base in Greensboro, North Carolina. The company has built its reputation on a single, innovative concept: a forklift that combines the capabilities of a counterbalance truck, a sideloader, and a very narrow aisle (VNA) truck into one versatile machine. This design allows Combilift forklifts to move forward, backward, sideways, and even diagonally, making them ideal for handling long, bulky, and heavy loads in confined spaces.
The Combilift Advantage – One Truck, Three Functions
Traditional material handling often requires multiple machines for different tasks. Combilift's multi-directional design eliminates this need, providing significant operational benefits:
Increased Storage Capacity: By navigating narrow aisles and handling long loads efficiently, Combilift forklifts can increase storage capacity by up to 50%.
Reduced Fleet Size: One Combilift truck can replace a counterbalance forklift, a sideloader, and a VNA truck, reducing the total number of machines required.
Versatility: These trucks operate both indoors and outdoors, on various surfaces, and handle both palletized goods and long, awkward loads.
Fuel Options: Combilift offers electric, diesel, and LPG engine options across most of its range, allowing operators to choose the best power source for their application.
2026 Product Lineup
Combilift's product range is organized into three primary series, each designed for specific handling needs.
1. C-Series – The Original Multi-Directional Workhorse
The C-Series is Combilift's flagship range, designed to be "three forklifts in one". It covers the broadest capacity range in the lineup, from 5,000 lbs to 55,000 lbs.
Model Range Capacity Power Options Key Features
C5000 / C6000 5,000 – 6,000 lbs Diesel, LPG Base model for long and bulky loads
C6000 – C10000 6,000 – 10,000 lbs Diesel, LPG Enhanced capacity for heavier loads
C6000E – C10000E 6,000 – 10,000 lbs Electric Electric version of the above
C10000XL – C12000XL 10,000 – 12,000 lbs Diesel, LPG Wider cab for operator comfort
C10000XLE – C12000XLE 10,000 – 12,000 lbs Electric Electric version with rubber-mounted cabin
C14000 – C17300 14,000 – 17,300 lbs Diesel, LPG For oversized, bulky loads
C17300ET 17,300 lbs Electric Electric heavy-lift variant
C22000ET 22,000 lbs Electric Zero-emission, extra-heavy load handling
C22000 – C30000 Up to 30,000 lbs Diesel, LPG Highest capacity in the series
2. Combi-CB Series – The Compact Counterbalance Alternative
The Combi-CB series offers the multi-directional advantage in a smaller, more compact package. It is ideal for operations that primarily handle palletized goods but also need the flexibility to transport long loads in tight spaces. This series has capacities ranging from 5,000 lbs to 15,500 lbs. Key models include:
Model Capacity Power Options Key Features
COMBI-CB8 8,000 lbs Diesel, LPG 159" lift height, 3-wheel hydrostatic drive
COMBI-CB155E 15,500 lbs Electric High-capacity electric variant
CB70E 7,000 kg (approx. 15,400 lbs) Electric Designed for bulky loads in tight areas
3. Combi-MR Series – Stand-On Reach Truck
The Combi-MR is a stand-on reach truck that delivers excellent maneuverability in confined spaces, featuring single rear-wheel drive and 360° steering. It is available with a capacity of 5,000 lbs to 6,000 lbs and is exclusively electric-powered.
Key Features and Technologies
Combilift forklifts incorporate several advanced features to enhance performance, safety, and operator comfort:
Multi-Directional Operation: The hallmark of the brand, allowing seamless movement in any direction, which is critical for maneuvering long loads in tight spaces.
Rubber-Mounted Cabin: Many models feature a rubber-mounted half-open cabin that absorbs shocks and vibrations, providing a smoother ride and excellent visibility.
Hydrostatic Drive: Used in many models, this system provides smooth, precise control and eliminates the need for a traditional clutch or gearbox.
Load-Sensing Steering: This system adjusts steering effort based on the load, reducing operator fatigue and improving control.
Dynamic Traction Control: Adjusts wheel traction based on real-time conditions to ensure optimal grip and stability across various surfaces.
AC Motor Technology: Featured in electric models, providing high efficiency, reliability, and low maintenance.
Pricing Overview
Combilift does not publish standard list prices, as costs vary significantly based on model, capacity, power source, and customization. However, the following rental rates provide a useful benchmark for the cost of ownership.
Model Day Rate Week Rate Month Rate Source
C10000/10000E (10,000 lbs) $370 $925 $2,310
C30000 (30,000 lbs) $1,260 $3,080 $7,280
Note: Rental rates are indicative and do not include taxes, fees, or delivery charges. Purchase prices for new units are significantly higher and require a direct quote from a dealer.
Applications
Combilift forklifts are used across a wide range of industries where long, heavy, or awkward loads are common:
Steel and Metal Processing: Handling long beams, pipes, and coils.
Timber and Lumber: Transporting long planks and logs.
Precast Concrete: Moving heavy, bulky concrete elements.
Construction: Handling building materials on-site.
Large-Scale Manufacturing: Moving oversized components.
Summary
Combilift is a specialist manufacturer of multi-directional forklifts that combine the functionality of a counterbalance truck, sideloader, and VNA truck into a single, versatile machine. The 2026 lineup is centered on the C-Series (5,000–55,000 lbs capacity), the compact Combi-CB Series (5,000–15,500 lbs), and the stand-on Combi-MR Series (5,000–6,000 lbs). These trucks offer significant operational advantages, including up to 50% increased storage capacity, reduced fleet size, and the ability to handle both palletized and long loads indoors and outdoors. With electric, diesel, and LPG options, advanced features like rubber-mounted cabins and hydrostatic drive, and applications spanning steel, timber, and construction, Combilift provides specialized solutions for the most demanding material handling challenges.