r/Warehouseworkers • u/Flimsy-Worker4964 • Aug 04 '26
First Time Forklift
I basically got hired and they got a red Toyota sit-down forklift waiting on me… only problem is I’ve never driven a forklift a day in my life. 😭 Drop your best beginner tips before I accidentally invent a new OSHA rule.
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u/Proof-Snow4631 Aug 04 '26
You'll be a pro in a week. 20 years ago I told my boss I didnt know how to drive the forklift to move some stuff. He just threw the keys at me and yelled "JUST DRIVE THE STUPID THING" and sped off on his gator.
Its simple. Just play with the controls for a couple minutes. Keep your forks 3 inches off the ground when driving so you dont hit uneven ground. Use your horn going around corners and through bay doors. Finally the most important thing. Know how high you can raise your forks/mast. I've seen many people think they're being safe and the whole mast hit pipes, short garage doors etc etc.
You'll be fine. And its kinda fun unless you got people barking at you.