Learn everything you need to know to safely operate an M2 Multidirectional Sideloader. Our M2 training courses, delivered by experienced and accredited instructors, are designed to equip you and your team with the skills and confidence to handle this specialist category of rider-operated sideloader built specifically for moving long, heavy loads through narrow aisles and confined spaces.
Whether you are new to M2 trucks or an experienced operator needing a refresher, HL Training has a course for you. To further expand your knowledge and skillset, take a look at our full range of forklift operator training.
The M2 is the ABA category for the rider-operated multidirectional sideloader, a specialist machine designed to carry exceptionally long and heavy loads that cannot be handled by a standard forklift or reach truck. Where a standard C category sideloader travels only forwards and backwards with its forks mounted to the side, the M2 adds full multidirectional capability, allowing the operator to travel in four directions and position loads with far greater precision in tight or restricted environments.
The M2 is the go-to machine in industries that regularly handle long materials such as structural steel, aluminium extrusions, timber, pipes, and sheet materials. Its combination of side-loading capability and multidirectional travel makes it uniquely capable in environments like steel stockholders, timber merchants, and large fabrication facilities where standard handling equipment simply cannot reach.
| Type | 3:1 | 2:1 | 1:1 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOV | EXP | REF | NOV | EXP | REF | NOV | EXP | REF | |
| AITT | 37.5h | 22.5h | 7.5h | 30h | 18.75h | 7.5h | 22.5h | 15h | 3.75h |
| ITSSAR | 37.5h | 22.5h | 7.5h | 30h | 15h | 6.25h | 22.5h | 11.25h | 5h |
| RTITB | 42.5h | 23h | 8.5h | 33h | 19.5h | 7.25h | 25h | 15h | 5.5h |
The M2 is part of the ABA’s M group a dedicated set of categories for multidirectional trucks. Each M category covers a different machine type, and all require separate accredited training. The full range of multidirectional categories our courses cover includes:
The M2 requires its own dedicated qualification because the combination of side-loading mechanics and multidirectional travel creates a unique set of operating challenges particularly around load stability, spatial awareness, and safe positioning that go well beyond the standard C category sideloader qualification.
Like all of our courses, the M2 training is in-depth to provide you with the necessary expertise and competence to safely and efficiently operate an M2 multidirectional sideloader. This course includes (but is not limited to):
Candidates, a suitable training and test room, and an appropriate M2 multidirectional sideloader must be available for the entire course duration.
All candidates are expected to be willing to learn all aspects of the training course, including taking part in the pre-check, theoretical, and practical tests required to receive their accredited M2 certificate.
Our M2 training courses can be tailored to the specific machine your operators use and made job-specific. Once training has concluded, candidates will have the skills and knowledge needed to safely control and handle an M2 multidirectional sideloader in their own work environment.
At HL Training, we appreciate that each trainee will have different levels of experience operating an M2 multidirectional sideloader. This is why we offer three course types that can be tailored to meet your individual needs.
All course timings are based on a 3:1 candidates to instructor ratio.
Novice Operator: An individual with little or no experience operating an M2 or multidirectional sideloader. The course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 5 days.
Experienced Operator: An individual with relevant experience operating a standard C category sideloader but no formal M2 training. This course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 3 days. Further training may be recommended if candidates do not reach the required standard.
Refresher Operator: For operators who have held their M2 certificate for over 3 years and require a knowledge and skill refresher. This course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 1 day.
It is a legal requirement to have received adequate training before operating an M2 multidirectional sideloader. All operators must have the knowledge and practical skillset to handle the machine safely. There are many benefits to completing an accredited M2 course:
At HL Training, we combine thorough curriculums with the best training methods from certified instructors. When you join an M2 training course, you will experience the very highest levels of training to equip you to safely and effectively operate a multidirectional sideloader.
We deliver in-house accredited training at our site in Bristol or off-site training, enabling you to complete your course in the comfort of your workplace with your own M2 machine. Whether you are brand new to multidirectional sideloaders or an experienced C category operator making the step up, we have the perfect course for you.
Become an accredited M2 operator:
Contact us today to find out more about our M2 training course.