Reach Truck vs Forklift vs Telehandler: Which One Belongs On Your Job Site?

When the terrain is tough and the deadlines tighter, choosing the right lifting equipment isn’t just a matter of preference—it’s a matter of profit.

If you’ve ever debated between a reach truck, a forklift, or a telehandler, you’re not alone. At Westpeak Equipment, we get this question from contractors, warehouse managers, and site supervisors across Western Canada every week. You’ve got jobs to finish, budgets to meet, and no time for the wrong machine.

So let’s break it down—reach truck vs forklift vs telehandler—so you can make the smartest, safest, most cost-effective choice.

1. What’s a Reach Truck?

Ideal For: Indoor warehouses with narrow aisles and tall racking systems.

A reach truck is a specialized type of electric forklift designed for tight warehouse operations. It uses a pantograph mechanism to extend its forks forward and “reach” into storage racks. This design makes it incredibly efficient in high-density storage facilities.

Pros:

• Tight turning radius for small spaces

• Great vertical reach (often up to 30+ feet)

• Battery-powered and quiet for indoor use

Cons:

• Poor ground clearance

• Not suited for outdoor or rough terrain

Verdict: If you're operating inside a distribution center with narrow aisles and high shelves, the reach truck wins. But take it outside, and you’re stuck.

Need something more rugged? Check out Westpeak’s telehandler rentals.

2. What’s a Forklift? (Standard Industrial/Counterbalance)

Ideal For: Warehouses, construction sites, and basic material handling.

The term "forklift" usually refers to a counterbalance model, where the heavy back end balances out the lifted load. It’s the generalist of the lifting world—reliable, maneuverable, and great for mid-level lifting both indoors and on smooth outdoor surfaces.

Pros:

• Highly versatile

• Wide range of fuel types (electric, propane, diesel)

• Good for lifting 3,000 to 10,000+ lbs

Cons:

• Limited lift height

• Not ideal for uneven ground or extended reach

Verdict: Think of forklifts as your day-in, day-out workhorses. But if you need serious lift height or rough terrain capability, they fall short.

Have heavier loads and tougher terrain? Merlo telehandlers from Westpeak get it done.

3. What’s a Telehandler?

Ideal For: Outdoor construction sites, agriculture, and any job needing reach and ruggedness.

A telehandler (short for telescopic handler) combines the lifting ability of a forklift with the height and reach of a crane. With its boom arm and 4x4 traction, the Merlo telehandler can lift materials to the 55-foot mark, rotate 360°, and tackle the muddiest or most uneven job sites in Western Canada.

Pros:

• Massive vertical and forward reach

• Operates on all terrain

• Can lift 11,000+ lbs with ease

• Multiple attachments (forks, buckets, winches)

  
  

Cons:

• Larger turning radius

• Requires operator training

Verdict: When it comes to adaptability, range, and rugged performance, nothing outworks a telehandler. Especially not in Alberta mud or Saskatchewan wind.

Rent a Merlo telehandler with Westpeak today—built for Canada’s toughest job sites.

Final Comparison: Reach Truck vs Forklift vs Telehandler

Feature	Reach Truck	Forklift	Telehandler
Terrain Suitability	Indoor only	Indoor/outdoor (flat)	All terrain (rough/muddy)
Max Lift Height	30+ ft (indoor)	10–20 ft	55+ ft (outdoor)
Load Capacity	2,000–5,500 lbs	3,000–10,000+ lbs	Up to 11,000 lbs
Maneuverability	Excellent (tight turns)	Good	Moderate (large turns)
Ideal Use	Warehouses	Warehouses, sites	Construction, agriculture

Need help choosing? Call Westpeak—we’ll help you match the right machine to your site, load, and budget.

Q&A: Reach Truck vs Forklift vs Telehandler

Which is best for a warehouse with both indoor and outdoor needs?

Go with a standard forklift—just make sure it’s rated for outdoor use. If you’re loading from trucks in rough terrain, consider a telehandler.

Are reach trucks cheaper to operate?

Yes, they’re battery-powered and low maintenance—but only practical for smooth indoor settings.

How is a telehandler different from a forklift?

Telehandlers use an extendable boom to lift and place loads at greater distances and heights—plus they dominate on rough ground.

Do I need special certification to operate a telehandler?

Yes. Like forklifts, telehandlers require operator certification—but we can help you arrange that.

Ready to Work Smarter? Rent a Merlo from Westpeak

At Westpeak Equipment, we don’t just rent machines—we rent confidence. Whether you’re lifting heavy beams, reaching awkward heights, or working on rough terrain, our Merlo Roto 50.35 telehandlers give you the power and precision to get the job done—safely, efficiently, and without compromise.

With 11,000 lbs of lifting capacity, 111'6" of vertical reach, and full 360° rotation, our Merlos are engineered for serious performance on Western Canada's toughest job sites. And because we’re a family-owned company, you’ll get support that’s personal, honest, and always focused on your success.

📦Weekly and monthly rentals 

🔧Multiple attachments available 

🚛Fast delivery across BC, Alberta & Saskatchewan 

🛠 Backed by local support and mobile servicing

Get in touch today and let’s get your Merlo telehandler on-site—where it belongs.