Learn everything you need to know to safely operate an M4 Multidirectional Pedestrian Reach Truck. Our M4 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 pedestrian reach truck in demanding warehouse environments.
Whether you are new to M4 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 M4 is a brand new ABA category introduced in January 2026, created specifically for the pedestrian-operated multidirectional reach truck, most commonly the Combilift Combi-WR4. Previously, this machine type was trained under the A7 (pedestrian reach truck) category, but its unique multidirectional capability sets it apart enough to warrant its own dedicated qualification.
While the M4 operates in largely the same way as a standard A7 pedestrian reach truck, it has one key defining difference: the M4 can travel in four directions – forwards, backwards, and sideways, making it uniquely suited to narrow aisle environments where a standard pedestrian reach truck cannot manoeuvre without a full pivot.
The M4 is part of the ABA’s M group a set of dedicated 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 ABA introduced the M4 as a separate category in January 2026 because the pedestrian multidirectional reach truck, previously trained under A7 operates differently enough from a standard A7 to require its own dedicated testing standard and qualification.
Like all of our courses, the M4 training is in-depth to provide you with the necessary expertise and competence to safely and efficiently operate an M4 multidirectional pedestrian reach truck. This course includes (but is not limited to):
Candidates, a suitable training and test room, and an appropriate M4 multidirectional pedestrian reach truck 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 M4 certificate.
Our M4 training courses can be tailored to the specific truck 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 M4 multidirectional pedestrian reach truck in their own work environment.
At HL Training, we appreciate that each trainee will have different levels of experience and knowledge regarding operating an M4 truck. This is why we have developed three types of M4 training 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 M4 multidirectional counterbalance truck. The course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 5 days.
Experienced Operator: An individual with relevant experience operating a counterbalance truck but no formal M4 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: This course is for operators who have held their M4 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 M4 pedestrian reach truck. All operators must have the knowledge and practical skillset to operate the truck safely. There are many benefits to completing an accredited M4 course:
At HL Training, we combine thorough curriculums with the best training methods from certified instructors. When you join an M4 training course, you will experience the very highest levels of training to equip you to safely and effectively operate a multidirectional counterbalance truck.
Whether you are a forklift novice or a seasoned operator needing a refresher, we have the perfect course for you. Become an accredited M4 operator: Contact us today to find out more about our M4 training course.