When the words “Chinese forklift” are mentioned, there is often a spontaneous reaction.
For some it means: competitively priced.
For others: doubt.
But is that image still correct today?
The world of internal transport has fundamentally changed over the past fifteen years. And with it, the position of Chinese manufacturers in the European market.
Where does the image come from?
Ten to fifteen years ago, many Chinese forklifts were indeed primarily price-oriented.
- Simple technique
- Limited European presence
- Less developed service channels
- Hardly any local parts stock
That image has stuck.
But production, technology, and international strategy are evolving. And quickly.
Today's reality
Major Chinese manufacturers such as HELI are investing heavily today in:
- Own R&D departments
- Lithium platforms
- European hubs (including in Germany and France)
- Local parts stocks
- Dealer support and training
They are no longer export companies that “send something out”.
They are international players with a long-term vision.
So the question is no longer: can China produce?
The question is: which manufacturer, with what support, and for which application?
The economic logic
We live in a globalized economy.
- Energy prices vary by region
- Labor costs vary
- Production scale varies
- Supply chains are organized globally
It makes economic sense for production to be partially concentrated in Asia. This applies to electronics, car parts, batteries—and also for forklifts.
But production location alone does not determine quality.
Organization, quality control and service do.
When is a Chinese forklift a smart choice?
A machine must suit its use.
A Chinese forklift can be an excellent choice when:
- You want to approach a new investment in a budget-conscious way
- You do not have extreme 24/7 steel or port loads
- Availability and delivery time are important
- You choose a manufacturer with European support
In heavy-duty, 24/7 industrial applications, a different positioning can sometimes make more sense. This isn't due to the country of manufacture, but rather to specific configurations or internal standards.
It's always about context.
The real criterion: who is behind it?
The origin of a forklift is less decisive today than three other factors:
- Is there local service?
- Are parts readily available?
- Is there long-term technical support?
A forklift is not a flag.
It is a work tool that has to function every day.
At Immer-Goed we therefore do not look at “Made in…”, but at:
- Application
- TCO (Total Cost of Ownership)
- Service reliability
- Long-term employability
Evolution instead of prejudice
The market moves. Technology moves. Manufacturers move.
Anyone who still looks at Chinese forklifts today with the image of 2010 is missing a piece of reality.
That doesn't mean that every machine is automatically good.
But it does mean that nuance is needed.
And nuance is important in investment decisions.
Final Thought
The right forklift is not the cheapest.
Not the most expensive.
And not the most “European” or “Chinese” either.
The right forklift is the one that fits your operation — and is supported by a partner who remains available.
That's where we make the difference every day.