Counterbalance Forklift Training

Posted on 25 March 2020 by HLTrai.Wordpress

If you are looking for expert counterbalance forklift training, look no further than our extensive counterbalance courses from HL Training.

Find everything you need to know about the counterbalance training course here! You can also explore the full range of forklift operator training we have to offer.

What is a Counterbalance Forklift Truck?

Counterbalance forklift trucks are the most commonly used forklifts as they can be used for various purposes. From smaller trucks used for warehousing, loading and unloading lorries, and general movement of loads to larger trucks that can be used with attachments for heavier and more obscure loads, counterbalance forklift trucks can handle just about anything.

You should have the appropriate training for each forklift attachment you will be using in your role. Some examples of forklift attachments include:

Clamps
Rotating forks
Boom attachments
And more…

Please Note: If you are trained on a forklift with forks attachment, you may need specific job training if you are required to use any other attachments. Contact us for more information.

Types of Counterbalance Forklifts

A3: Pedestrian Operated Counterbalance Forklift Truck
B1: Rider Operated Counterbalance Lift Truck – up to and including 5,000kg lift
B2: Rider Operated Counterbalance Lift Truck – above 5,000kg up to and including 15,000kg lift
B3: Rider Operated Counterbalance Lift Truck – above 15,000kg
B4: Counterbalance Lift Truck
J1: Rough Terrain Counterbalance Forklift Truck

New testing standards were introduced for counterbalance forklifts in September 2017, and further amended in September 2018.

Benefits of Counterbalance Forklifts

Easy operation
Versatile
Indoor and outdoor use
Great manoeuvrability
Ease of Maintenance
Cost-effective

What Does the Counterbalance Course Entail?

Our Bristol-based counterbalance courses follow the accredited standard, ensuring every detail is covered for effective training. This counterbalance forklift training course covers, but is not limited to, the following:

Regulations/legislation – including LOLER 1998, PUWER 1998, and HASAWA 1974
Introduction to the forklift truck
Capacity plates
Stability
Loading and unloading of vehicles
Handling laden/unladen pallets
Working within racking

Delegates must pass a theoretical test, a practical test, and a pre-use check test to complete the course successfully.

Course Timings

Please note that course timings are based on a 3:1 (number of candidates to number of instructors). Ratio and timings may vary.

Novice: For a novice learner, the counterbalance forklift training course usually takes five days to complete successfully.
Experienced/Existing Operator: For those with previous experience, the counterbalance course takes three days to complete.
Conversion (from an alternative type of forklift): This course typically takes two days to complete. However, this is down to the instructors’ discretion. Further training may be recommended if the candidates do not reach the required standard.
Refresher Training: This course aims to refresh the knowledge of trained forklift operators. It takes one day to complete the refresher counterbalance forklift training.

What will a candidate receive upon completing an introductory operators course?

Certification: Upon successfully completing the counterbalance training course, you will be issued a certificate accredited by your chosen accrediting body (ITSSAR, RTITB or AITT).

Check out our accreditation page for more information.

Photo ID Cards: These are also available, although depending on your chosen accreditation, they may be added to the cost quoted.

Enrol in a Counterbalance Forklift Training Course Today

If our counterbalance forklift truck training course sounds like the right fit for your team, don’t hesitate to get in touch today to find out more. Our expert and friendly team are on hand now to help you with any advice and guidance on our available counterbalance forklift training courses.

Alternatively, discover more training courses available from HL Training to find the right requirements for your team and learn more about us to discover why you should choose our training courses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find the answers to your queries in our most frequently asked questions below.

How can I obtain a counterbalance forklift licence?

It is a common misconception that you need a forklift licence to operate a forklift. ‘Forklift licences’ simply do not exist!

All you need to do to operate a forklift safely is pass a forklift operator’s course and receive a basic training certificate. In some cases, ID cards are offered alongside the certificate, commonly mistaken for a ‘licence’.

What is the difference between a counterbalance and reach forklift?

Two of the most common forklift machines are counterbalance and reach forklifts, each with a special purpose. Counterbalance forklifts are designed to carry heavier loads by using a heavy counterweight on the rear of the forklift to offset any weight and prevent the machine from toppling over.

Reach forkli fts are designed to lift and carry loads that counterbalance machines can’t accomplish. Extended heights and smaller aisles sometimes hinder a counterbalance forklift. This is where a reach forklift comes in!

How often should counterbalance forklift training be refreshed?

It is a legal requirement for an employer to ensure their team is fully trained and competent throughout their employment and is able to operate forklifts safely.

For this reason, the HSE (in the HSG136) recommends that counterbalance courses are refreshed at least every three years to ensure the most up-to-date guidance and safety compliance.

Available Course Dates

# SELECTED

Course Name	Date	Time	Course Location	Delegate Price	Delegate Fees	Places Left	Book
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Novice	14/07/25 – 18/07/25 i 14/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 15/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 16/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 17/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 18/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£800.00	£25	0	Full
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Refresher	14/07/25 i 14/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£160.00	£25	1
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Novice	21/07/25 – 25/07/25 i 21/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 22/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 23/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 24/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00 25/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£800.00	£25	0	Full
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Refresher	24/07/25 i 24/07/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£160.00	£25	2
ITSSAR – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Novice	04/08/25 – 08/08/25 i 04/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 05/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 06/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 07/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 08/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£800.00	£25	2
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Refresher	06/08/25 i 06/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£160.00	£25	3
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Novice	18/08/25 – 22/08/25 i 18/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 19/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 20/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 21/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00 22/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£800.00	£25	3
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Refresher	26/08/25 i 26/08/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£160.00	£25	3
AITT – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Refresher	01/09/25 i 01/09/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£160.00	£25	3
RTITB – B1 – Rider – Counterbalance Forklift – Refresher	02/09/25 i 02/09/2025 08:30 – 16:00	08:30 – 16:00	HL Training Centre	£160.00	£25	3

Pallet Truck Training Courses

Posted on 24 March 2020 by HLTrai.Wordpress

At HL Training, our team of accredited forklift instructors provide a range of pallet truck training courses. We deliver the highest standard of training to enable you to use pallet trucks safely and effectively. We also provide a full range of forklift operator training.

Benefits of Pallet Trucks

The main benefits of these trucks are that they are cheaper to buy and maintain than standard Counterbalance Forklift or Reach Trucks and use considerably less space within the working environment than alternative pallet truck types.

Additionally, as per the below course timings, they take a lot less time to train candidates due to the simplicity of the pallet truck.

Operator Training For All Pallet Trucks

Pallet trucks cover various ABA Categories and include pedestrian pallet trucks or rider pallet trucks. In addition, they can be Manual, Semi Manual or Electric. There are also instances where they have a fold-down platform for use when moving from A to B within the working environment. At HL, we can provide pallet truck training on all categories of pallet trucks and cover all makes and models.

Types of pallet trucks

A1 – Pallet; stillage; low lift platform & low lift order picking trucks (Pedestrian Operated)
A2 – Pallet; stillage; low lift platform & low lift order picking trucks (Rider Operated)
Z1 – Manual/Semi-Manual Pallet Trucks
Z2 – Manual/Semi-Manual Platform truck (inc. Fixed Type)

These are the categories agreed upon between all ABA members, and new course testing criteria were released in 2019 with an improved standard for Pre Use Checks, Practical Testing and Theory Tests.

Pallet Truck Training Courses and Timings

Course timings are based on a 3:1 candidate-to-instructor ratio.

Our pedestrian and manual pallet truck training courses are available at 3 levels:

Novice – 1 or 2 Days Depending on accrediting body & truck type
Experienced/Existing Operator – 1 Day
Refresher Training – 1 Day

What Do Our Pallet Truck Courses Include?

Our pallet truck courses are comprehensive and cover many topics, including (but not limited to):

Regulations and legislation (including LOLER 1998, PUWER 1998, and HASAWA 1974)
Introduction to pallet trucks
Capacity Plates
Stability
Handling laden/unladen loads
Loading docks
Working within racking
and much more.

Sign Up For Accredited Pallet Truck Operator Training

There’s no one better than the HL team for first-rate pallet truck training delivered by accredited instructors. We have courses for all pallet truck types and can provide a training solution designed for your experience level. Sign up for a course today and become an accredited pallet truck operator.

Pallet Truck Course FAQs

How are pallet truck courses assessed?

All of our pallet truck courses are assessed through theoretical and practical tests and a pre-use check. These are mandatory testing elements. To successfully complete the course, you must pass all three assessment elements.

What will I receive upon completing a pallet truck operator course?

After completing a pallet truck course, you will receive a certification (and a photo ID card will be available). Your certificate will be accredited by your chosen accrediting body (ITSSAR, RTITB, or AITT). ID cards are also available but may incur additional costs depending on your course.

Do I need a license to operate a pallet truck?

Operating a pallet truck does not require a license. The accredited certificate earned from successfully completing a course is a legal document and allows you to operate a pallet truck.

Pedestrian Operated Straddle Truck Training (A6)

Posted on 13 March 2020 by HLTrai.Wordpress

A combination of various other trucks, the Straddle Truck proves more efficient than others within the ABA A categories due to its superior stacking abilities, which helps to save time. Another benefit of using a straddle truck is that the wider legs allow the truck to lift pallets from ground level. As the forks are separate from the load legs, operators can lift from ground level without the risk of damaging the pallet.

See below for more info on this truck type, including what the course includes, the course ratio and timings, and what you should expect to receive upon successful completion of training. Alternatively, take a look at the full range of forklift operator training we offer.

Pedestrian Straddle Truck Course Information:

A6 Pedestrian Operated Straddle Truck

The above category has been taken from the ABA groupings and is correct for RTITB, AITT & ITSSAR.

Pedestrian Straddle Truck Course Timings:

All our training courses are based on a candidate-to-instructor ratio of 3:1.

Novice – 2 or 3 Days (depending on accrediting body)

Experienced/Existing Operator – 1 Day

Conversion (from alternative type forklift*)

Refresher Training – 1 Day

We can carry out training for this truck type at the trainee’s workplace – we provide our Straddle Truck training nationally. Please contact us to find out more information.

What Our Straddle Truck Course Includes

This course covers (but is NOT limited to):

Working within racking
Regulations/legislation (including LOLER 1998, PUWER 1998, and HASAWA 1974)
Starting and stopping the truck
Mounting and dismounting
Operating within a 4-way steer (if applicable)
Use of hydraulic controls

And much more.

We use three mandatory testing elements; theoretical and practical tests and a pre-use check. You will need to pass ALL THREE to complete the course successfully.

Completing the Course

Certification:

Upon successfully completing your training, you will receive a certificate accredited by your chosen accrediting body (ITSSAR, RTITB, or AITT). Check out our accreditation page for more information.

Photo ID Cards:

These are also available. However, depending on your chosen accreditation, they may be added to the cost quoted.

Sign Up For Your straddle Truck Training Today

Our HL team of accredited instructors offers first-rate straddle truck training. They can provide a training solution for any experience level to ensure you get the most out of the course. Sign up for a course today and become an accredited straddle truck operator!

Straddle Truck Training FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions:

How do you assess the straddle truck training courses?

All our courses are assessed with theoretical and practical tests and a pre-use check. To achieve your certificate, you must pass each of these mandatory assessment elements.

Will I receive a license for successfully completing my straddle truck training?

There is no such thing as a straddle truck license. We will provide you with a certificate if you complete the course. This will act as a legal document to demonstrate that you have received the mandatory training to operate that specific kind of machinery.

When Does My Saddle Truck Certificate Expire?

Your saddle truck certificate is for life and does not expire. However, the NORS registration for RTITB courses does have an expiration date. It is at an employers discretion whether you may continue to operate a forklift after your NORS expiration. You can take a refresher course to renew your registration.

How Do I Check My Training Is Registered?

Each of our saddle truck courses is accredited by one of three governing bodies (ITSSAR, RTITB, or AITT). Each certifcate contains a unique ID number which can be used with the relevant accreditor to check the training has been registered with them.

ITSSAR use a TOPS number
AITT has an ACORNS number
and RTITB has a NORS number

You can check by contacting the accreditor directly. Alternatively, ITSSAR and RTITB each allow you to check through their respective websites.

Accredited Combilift Forklift Training Courses

Posted on 19 December 2019 by HLTrai.Wordpress

Learn everything you need to know to operate Combilift forklifts safely. Our Combilift training courses, delivered by experienced and accredited instructors, are designed to equip you and your team with the ability to handle and operate a Combilift forklift safely.

Whether you are new to operating Combilift forklifts or an experienced operator needing a refresher, HL Training has a training course for you. To further expand your knowledge and skillset, look at our full range of forklift operator training.

What is a Multi-directional Forklift?

Multi-directional forklifts are typically referred to as Combilift (because of the manufacturer) or 4-way steer forklifts. They are the most suitable solution for handling longer loads, especially due to the different types of trucks available within this category. See below for more info on categories.

Types of Multi-directional Trucks

Our accredited courses cover the use of several multidirectional forklifts, including:

M1 Rider Operated Multi-Directional Forklift
M2 Rider Operated Multi-Directional Sideloader
M3 Rider Operated Multi-Directional Reach Truck

The ABA introduced these categories following a meeting with Combilift themselves, who helped categorise the difference between the types of trucks available on the market.

Benefits of a Combilift Forklift

The main benefit of these trucks is that they operate in the same way as their standard counterparts and can also move sideways. Hence, they are multidirectional: forward, backward, left, and right. This means they can be used in tighter aisles and for more purposes than standard Forklifts, Sideloaders, and Reach Trucks.

What Is Included In The Combilift Training?

Like all of our courses, the Combilift training is in-depth to provide you with the necessary expertise and competence to safely and efficiently operate a combi forklift. This course includes (but is not limited to):

Regulations and legislation (including LOLER 1998, PUWER 1998, and HASAWA 1974)
Introduction to truck
Capacity Plates
Stability
Operating with a 4-way steer
Handling loaded/unloaded pallets
Working with racking
Care and Maintenance

Multi-directional Forklift Training Course Requirements

Candidates, a training and test room, and appropriate equipment 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 to receive their accredited certificate.

Our training courses can be tailored to the type of multidirectional forklift you have and made job-specific. Once training has concluded, this will equip the candidates with the skills and knowledge needed to control and handle a combi forklift in their own work environment, from sideloader forklifts to reach trucks

Combilift Truck Training Course Timings

At HL Training, we appreciate that each trainee will have different levels of experience and knowledge regarding operating a Combilift fork truck. This is why we have developed three types of combi forklift training that can be tailored to meet your individual needs.

All course timings are based on 3:1 candidates to instructor ratio.

Novice Operator: An individual with little or no experience operating a multidirectional forklift. The course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 5 days.

Experienced Operator: An individual with relevant experience operating a combi forklift but no formal 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 multidirectional forklift operator 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.

Why You Should Complete a Combilift Training Course

It is a legal requirement to have received adequate basic Combilift training. All operators must have a proficient understanding and skillset to operate a forklift safely. There are many benefits to completing a Combilift training course:

Safe Handling: Our course teaches operators and instructors the necessary skills and knowledge to safely handle and control multidirectional fork trucks.
Boost Productivity: Our training course promotes greater workplace productivity through a more effective Combilift fork truck operating approach.
Adherence to Regulations: Our training courses are accredited by the relevant partners, ensuring they conform to the relevant safety procedures, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Cost-Effective: Learning the appropriate care and maintenance methods for your multidirectional forklift will save you money by avoiding sudden breakdowns that lead to costly repairs.

Sign Up For A Combilift Course with HL Training

At HL Training, we combine thorough curriculums with the best training methods from certified instructors. When you join a Combi training aid course, you will experience the very highest levels of training to equip you to safely and effectively operate multidirectional forklifts.

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 combilift fork truck. Whether you are a forklift novice or a seasoned operator needing a refresher, we have the perfect course for you.

Become an accredited operator. Sign up for a training course today.

Combilift Training UK FAQs

How is the Combilift course assessed?

The training is assessed through mandatory elements, including theoretical and practical tests and pre-use checks. To complete the course successfully, you must pass ALL THREE.

What will I receive upon completing a basic operators course?

Upon completing training, you will receive a certificate accredited by your chosen accrediting body (ITSSAR, RTITB or AITT). Check out our accreditation page for more information. Photo ID cards are also available, although they may require an additional cost depending on your chosen accreditation.

Do I need a license to operate a Combilift forklift?

No. A license is not required to operate a Combilift forklift. The certificate of basic training you receive upon successfully completing our course is a legal document. This allows you to operate the corresponding machinery. ID cards are also available upon completion. These, however, are not licenses.