Average pay, hourly rate and hiring demand for forklift truck driver roles across the UK — free official ONS data.
['The average salary for a Forklift Truck Driver in the UK is around £26,520 per year, which translates to approximately £13.6 per hour, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.', 'This guide will explore typical pay ranges, factors influencing earnings, and advice for both employers hiring and jobseekers looking to increase their salary in this role.']
| Average annual salary | £26,520 |
|---|---|
| Average weekly pay (2022) | £510 |
| Hourly equivalent | £13.6 (based on a 37-hour week) |
| Monthly (gross) | £2,210 |
| Indicative pay range | £19,100 – £37,100 |
Average and weekly figures are official ONS ASHE estimates via LMI for All. The indicative range is derived around the ONS average to reflect typical spread by region and experience; actual offers vary.
Official Working Futures projections show UK employment in this occupation moving from about 69,404 in 2021 to 69,417 by 2035 (+0.0%) — demand is stable.
| Year | Avg weekly pay | Annualised |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | £570 | £29,640 |
| 2022 | £510 | £26,520 |
['Employers should consider offering competitive salaries or additional benefits like overtime payments or on-site facilities to attract skilled Forklift Truck Drivers.', 'A starting salary of around £25,000 per year can help in attracting good candidates, but higher pay scales may be necessary for experienced drivers or those with special qualifications.']
Gangal Recruitment supplies vetted, right-to-work compliant staff across the UK — usually on site within 48 hours. Fully insured.
Get a Staffing QuoteTalk to us['Jobseekers looking to boost their earnings could gain additional certifications such as Forklift Truck Operator Qualification (FTOQ) which can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.', 'Increasing your experience through more shifts or by working varied hours, including potential for night shifts, may also improve your earning potential in this role.']
The average hourly rate can vary but typically ranges from £12 to £14.50 per hour, depending on experience and location.
More experienced drivers often earn higher salaries due to their increased skill level and reliability.
Gaining an FTOQ or similar certification can help you command a higher wage in the job market.