Why It’s So Hard to Hire Forklift Operators (And What You Can Do About It)

The demand for skilled forklift operators is surging as warehouse and distribution center operations expand across the U.S. However, finding qualified candidates is becoming increasingly challenging for businesses. Hiring forklift operators can feel like navigating a logistical maze of certification requirements, safety concerns, and a tight labor market. Here, we’ll explore why hiring forklift operators is tricky and outline actionable strategies to overcome these challenges.

The Challenges of Hiring Forklift Operators

1. Certification Requirements
   Operating a forklift is a specialized skill that requires OSHA certification to ensure safety and compliance. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires forklift operators to complete formal training, practical evaluations, and certification. This requirement becomes a significant barrier for businesses without the resources to certify candidates.
2. Safety Risks and Workers’ Compensation Costs
   Forklift-related accidents are among the most common causes of workplace injuries in warehouses. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that 2022 forklift accidents resulted in approximately 73 deaths and 15,480 DAFW Cases. These incidents jeopardize employee safety, leading to expensive workers’ compensation claims, increased insurance premiums, and potential regulatory penalties.
3. Labor Market Constraints
   The ongoing labor shortage has impacted nearly every industry, including warehouse staffing. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are currently 7.7 million open jobs in the U.S., but only 7.1 million unemployed workers are available. This disparity makes it challenging to attract and retain skilled forklift operators, leading to operational slowdowns as companies need help filling roles quickly in a competitive market.

Strategies to Hire Forklift Operators Quickly and Efficiently

1. Partner with a Staffing Agency Specializing in Warehouse Roles
   Working with a staffing agency like Lingo Staffing gives you access to a pool of pre-vetted, qualified candidates. Agencies often have already certified associates or can facilitate certification, saving your organization time and effort.
2. Provide Certification Opportunities
   If certified forklift operators are scarce, consider implementing an in-house certification program or partnering with a staffing agency that offers certification assistance. By investing in training, you can build a pipeline of skilled operators ready to contribute safely and effectively.
3. Focus on Competitive Compensation and Benefits
   Attract top talent by offering competitive pay rates, sign-on bonuses, and benefits packages tailored to warehouse workers. Highlighting opportunities for overtime or advancement can make your roles stand out in a crowded labor market.
4. Promote a Strong Workplace Safety Culture
   Candidates prioritize workplaces emphasizing safety. Highlight your commitment to safety through training programs, regular inspections, and well-maintained equipment. A reputation for safety can be a key differentiator in attracting and retaining skilled operators.
5. Streamline the Hiring Process
   A lengthy hiring process can cause candidates to accept offers elsewhere. To secure top talent before competitors do, simplify application procedures, and accelerate interview and onboarding timelines.

Why Safety and Certification Are Non-Negotiable

Failing to hire certified forklift operators can lead to significant financial and operational risks. Uncertified operators increase the likelihood of workplace accidents, exposing businesses to steep OSHA fines, legal liabilities, and potential reputational damage. According to a report by Litum, the average cost of a medically consulted injury is $42,000, while a workplace fatality costs $1.34 million. The National Safety Council (NSC) further highlights that work-related injuries cost U.S. employers $167 billion annually, including expenses related to lost productivity, medical costs, and administrative burdens. Ensuring your forklift operators are appropriately certified ensures regulatory compliance, protects your employees, and safeguards your bottom line.

Conclusion

Hiring forklift operators is no easy task, but it’s critical to maintaining a safe, efficient, and productive warehouse operation. By addressing certification barriers, promoting safety, and partnering with a staffing agency like Lingo Staffing, you can overcome the challenges and secure top talent for your organization.

At Lingo Staffing, we understand the challenges of hiring skilled forklift operators in a competitive labor market. Our expertise in warehouse staffing ensures that you get access to pre-vetted, OSHA-certified candidates who prioritize safety and efficiency. If certification is a hurdle, we’ve got you covered—we can help associates obtain the necessary credentials or ensure your organization has a robust program.

Beyond filling roles, we’re committed to helping you build a safer and more productive workforce. By partnering with Lingo Staffing, you’ll save time, reduce costly turnover, and minimize risks associated with forklift-related injuries.

Don’t let staffing challenges slow your operations or compromise safety. Partnering with Lingo Staffing today takes the first step toward a stronger workforce. Your success starts with the right team—we’re here to help you build it.