Rough Terrain Forklifts vs. Merlo Telehandlers: Which Is Better for Your Next Tough Job?

Built for the Toughest Terrain: Why Rough Terrain Forklifts Still Matter

When your job site is more rock than road, more mud than concrete, a standard forklift won’t cut it. That’s where rough terrain forklifts come in. These beasts are designed to work where others stall—hauling, lifting, and navigating across gravel, slopes, potholes, or raw dirt. With oversized pneumatic tires, reinforced cabs, and powerful engines, they keep your operations moving no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Need equipment that doesn’t flinch in the face of rough terrain? Contact Westpeak Equipment to talk rugged rentals.

What Exactly Is a Rough Terrain Forklift?

Unlike standard warehouse forklifts, rough terrain forklifts are engineered for instability. Their wide base, enhanced ground clearance, and durable frame let them power through:

• Uneven and sloped surfaces

• Mud, snow, and loose gravel

• Outdoor construction sites and lumber yards

Many models include 4WD, oscillating rear axles, and masts directly attached to the chassis for added stability. Their lifting capacity typically ranges between 6,000 to 8,000 lbs, making them ideal for transporting heavy loads outdoors.

Want a forklift that matches your site conditions? Explore your options with Westpeak Equipment.

Merlo Telehandlers: Versatility That Goes Beyond Forklifts

Now let’s talk competition. Merlo telehandlers are built for similar terrain, but they go a step further with 360° rotation and telescopic reach. These units can lift, extend, and rotate in ways traditional forklifts can’t.

Key Merlo Advantages:

• 111 ft lift height (vs. 15-20 ft for many forklifts)

• 360° cab rotation for complete job site visibility

• Precision joystick control for delicate maneuvering

• Superior cab comfort, ideal for long shifts

The trade-off? Telehandlers tend to be more expensive, more specialized, and require more operator training.

Looking for that next-level lifting solution? Book your Merlo rental today.

When to Choose a Rough Terrain Forklift (vs. a Telehandler)

Choose a rough terrain forklift when:

• You’re lifting pallets, lumber, or materials on basic outdoor terrain

• Your crew is trained in forklift operation

• Your lift height needs don’t exceed 15-20 feet

• You’re on a tight budget

  
  

Choose a Merlo telehandler when:

• You need lift heights beyond 20 feet

• You’re dealing with awkward lifting angles

• Your job requires both reach and rotation

• You want a multi-tasking unit that can handle attachments like buckets, winches, and platforms

Still unsure? Contact Westpeak Equipment to get expert advice on the right fit.

Operator Comfort & Safety: Forklift vs. Merlo

Rough terrain forklifts come with rugged reliability but often less finesse in comfort and tech. Merlo telehandlers, by contrast, are built for operator wellbeing. Westpeak’s Merlo models feature climate-controlled cabs, adjustable seats, and real-time diagnostics.

That said, rough terrain forklifts offer great visibility and ergonomic controls—just not the bells and whistles of a premium telehandler.

Safety and comfort are standard in every machine at Westpeak Equipment.

Cost & Rental Availability: What to Expect

At Westpeak Equipment, we rent Merlo telehandlers because we believe in performance without compromise. But we also recognize that rough terrain forklifts have their place, especially for budget-conscious contractors needing reliable, straightforward lift power.

Westpeak provides expert guidance, flexible terms, and full delivery/setup services across Western Canada.

Ready to rent? Request a quote from Westpeak Equipment.

Q&A: Rough Terrain Forklifts

Q: Are rough terrain forklifts good for snow and ice?A: Yes. Their oversized tires and 4WD capability make them great for outdoor winter conditions.

Q: How high can a rough terrain forklift lift?A: Most models lift between 15 to 20 feet. For higher reach, a Merlo telehandler is a better choice.

Q: Can rough terrain forklifts use attachments?A: Yes, but they’re not as versatile as telehandlers in this area. Merlos support a wider range of add-ons.

Q: Do I need special training to operate one?A: Operators must be certified, especially in Canada, and receive site-specific orientation.

Conclusion: Which One Wins?

If your job site is rough and your budget tight, a rough terrain forklift is the rugged workhorse you need. But if your project demands height, reach, comfort, and versatility, the Merlo telehandler wins hands down. At Westpeak Equipment, we help you choose what delivers results—no guesswork required.

👉 Contact our team today and let’s find the right lift for your next job.

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.