Warehouse employees who can operate forklifts often have an advantage! That is why many of our logistics vacancies state: Valid forklift certification or willing to obtain it. Can you see yourself driving around on the forklift? Or are you curious about what having this certificate exactly means? Then you’ve come to the right place. In this blog we answer questions about the forklift certificate.
WHAT IS A FORKLIFT CERTIFICATE?
A forklift certificate is a kind of license, with which you can professionally operate a forklift. This certification is valid for 5 years.
WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A FORKLIFT CERTIFICATE?
With this certificate you can become a forklift driver. A forklift driver is responsible for loading, unloading and making sure all materials end up where they’re supposed to be. This logistics job is often combined with other tasks in a warehouse. With you driving the forklift, all materials will be stored in the right place. Do you like being behind the wheel, but do you also like staying close to home? Then this is the ideal job for you.
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE FOR A FORKLIFT CERTIFICATE?
You can obtain a forklift certificate from 16 years old. The minimum age for independently operating a forklift is 18 years. Are you under 18? Then you will always work under the supervision of another authorized forklift driver.
WHY IS A FORKLIFT CERTIFICATE IMPORTANT?
The forklift certificate is important to be able to work safely and smoothly. Without proper instruction and experience, driving a forklift can be dangerous and somewhat difficult. Many employers in the logistics sector therefore state this certificate as mandatory. This allows you, as a forklift driver, to efficiently load and unload materials in the warehouse. In addition, with a valid forklift certificate you are always aware of important rules within your work and you learn to maintain the machine.
HOW DO YOU OBTAIN A FORKLIFT CERTIFICATE?
You obtain a forklift certificate by following a course or forklift training. This basic training often takes 2 days, but in an emergency you can also get your certificate in 1 day.
In this course/training you will practice driving and operating the forklift. You also practice loading and unloading pallets, bins and containers. Of course, preparing the vehicle for road use and daily maintenance is also part of the work as a forklift driver. In addition, you will learn how much weight a forklift can handle, how to safely distribute this weight and which dangers and risks you have to take into account while working.
IS IT DIFFICULT TO OBTAIN A FORKLIFT CERTIFICATE?
How difficult it is to obtain this certificate differs per person. The training consists of a theoretic part and of course: driving the forklift. Some are good with learning the theoretical part, while finding it difficult to operate a forklift. With more experience – on similar machines – driving a forklift is easier. Of course, in this case you should just as well pass the theory part of the course.
WHAT DOES A FORKLIFT CERTIFICATION COST?
The costs of a basic forklift training and exam vary between €100 and €600. At Concreeto we are happy to help you with these costs. The price depends on which training or course you are following exactly. For example, the costs for a beginner are higher than for someone who follows a refresher course. Together with your future employer, we look at what you need for your dream job.
STARTING A NEW JOB AT CONCREETO
Have you seen a great vacancy, but are you not in possession of the right certificate yet? No problem! We are happy to help you find your dream job. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the possibilities. Visit our office in Rotterdam or call +31 10-7200720
