What is a forklift operator?

In brief

As Forklift driver You are the king/queen of the warehouse. You move pallets, load and unload trucks and make sure goods end up in the right place. With your forklift skills you keep the logistics running.

Logistics employee with tablet

What does a forklift driver do?

A Forklift Driver is responsible for the internal transportation of goods within warehouses and premises. Your duties include:

  • Loading and unloading of trucks
  • Moving loaded pallets to proper location
  • Preparing orders using scanner and forklift truck
  • Placing pallets on high racks or elevations
  • Checking goods for quality and quantity
  • Keeping stock records in order
  • Work according to safety rules and guidelines

 

With a forklift certification in your pocket, you are worth gold to logistics employers.

What competencies should you have?

These are the qualities that make you excel in this role:

Working accurately and safely
Initiative and solution-oriented
Keeping a good overview in the warehouse
Physically fit and stress resistant
An eye for order and cleanliness
MBO working and thinking level

What does a workday look like?

Your day often starts with receiving trucks. You make sure that incoming goods are unloaded and arrive at the right place in the warehouse. You use a scanner to check whether everything is correct in terms of quantity and quality. Later in the day you prepare orders for shipment, stack pallets neatly and keep the warehouse orderly. At the end of your shift you know: everything is safe and ready for transport.

How do you become a forklift driver?

For this position, a forklift certificate is a must. Sometimes your employer will pay for this training for you. In addition, these steps help:

  • MBO training in logistics (e.g., Logistics Assistant, level 2/3)
  • Courses in security (such as VCA)
  • Work experience in a warehouse or logistics environment

 

Don't have a certificate yet? Often you can take the training through an employment agency or employer.

Salary

As a Forklift Driver, you will earn at least the legal hourly wage of €14.40 gross (21+, as of July 2025). On average, the salary is around €2,300 to €2,700 gross per month, depending on experience, shifts and sector.

Diploma

An MBO degree in logistics is helpful, but not a hard requirement. Most importantly, you have or are willing to get a forklift certificate.

Number of hours

Most Forklift drivers work full-time (36-40 hours per week). Sometimes there are part-time options.

Working Hours

You will usually work in shifts (morning, afternoon, evening, night). Daytime work is also possible. Shift work often involves an attractive allowance.

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Your next step?

Forklift driver

Are you ready to make meters in the warehouse and keep everything running smoothly? Jump on that forklift and get a job with security and a future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a forklift certificate to get started?

Yes, they usually do. But many employers offer the chance to obtain this certificate through them. Sometimes even before your first day of work.

No problem. With motivation and a certificate, you can often join right away. Experienced colleagues will teach you the tricks of the trade.

It is less strenuous than lifting because the forklift does a lot for you. However, it is important that you stay alert and focused.

Yes! From this role you can advance to positions such as team leader, logistics coordinator or reach truck driver.

You have a lot of variety and responsibility. No day is the same, and you often work in a close-knit team with a down-to-earth, practical atmosphere.