Forklift Conversion Training for Additional Truck Types

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Conversion Training for Qualified Operators

Expanding Operator Skills Across Additional Equipment Types

If operators are already trained on one type of forklift and need to operate a different type, this course provides a structured and efficient way to transfer existing skills to new equipment. Delivered on-site across Hampshire and surrounding areas, our ITSSAR-accredited forklift conversion training is carried out in small groups (maximum three trainees), focusing on the safe operation of the new equipment and the key differences operators need to understand.

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Who Is This Course For?

Expanding Operator Capability Across Multiple Truck Types

This course is designed for trained and certified operators who need to move from one truck category to another - for example, from a counterbalance to a reach truck, or from a pallet truck to a straddle truck. It allows operators to safely expand existing skills without repeating full novice-level training.

Course Duration

Focused Training That Respects Existing Experience

Conversion training typically takes up to 15 hours, depending on the types of equipment involved and the number of trainees. The course focuses on differences in controls, handling, visibility, and stability, with both theory and practical instruction tailored to the new equipment.

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Forklift Types Available for Conversion Training

Conversion training is available across a wide range of workplace equipment, including:

Yellow Counterbalance Forklift on a white background

Training availability depends on the equipment, facilities, and working environment available on-site.

Transferring Existing Skills to New Equipment Types

Conversion training builds on existing forklift experience, focusing on the operational differences between truck types to help operators adapt safely and confidently to new workplace equipment.

Key Information About Forklift Conversion Training

Everything you need to know before booking forklift conversion training for your operators. Conversion training is required when operators move to a different category of forklift or workplace equipment, even if they are already fully trained on another type.

Do You Need a Driving Licence?

A car driving licence is not required to operate a forklift truck unless the vehicle is used on public roads. However, basic driving experience can help with control and spatial awareness. This course is designed for trained operators who are adding a new category of forklift or workplace equipment to their existing certification.

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Why Accredited Training Matters

This course follows the Health and Safety Executive’s Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (L117) for rider‑operated lift trucks, helping ensure training is structured in line with recognised UK standards. For employers, conversion training helps ensure operators receive appropriate instruction and assessment for each specific truck type they use.

Assessment and Certification

Each trainee must complete both a theory test and practical assessment specific to the new equipment type. Successful candidates receive an ITSSAR-accredited certificate, with qualifications recorded on the TOPS register where applicable. This confirms competence on the additional equipment in line with recognised workplace standards.

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Where Training Takes Place

Training is delivered on-site at your premises using your equipment and working environment. This helps ensure operators are trained in conditions that reflect their normal day-to-day workplace activities and the specific equipment they will use.

Forklift Training That Stands Up to Scrutiny

Structured, workplace-based training designed around real operational conditions.

On-Site, Relevant Training

Delivered at your premises using your equipment, so operators are trained in conditions that reflect your actual workplace.

ITSSAR-Accredited Standards

Structured training with the documentation, assessment, and professional standards employers should expect.

Clear, Practical Instruction

No jargon or shortcuts - operators gain a genuine understanding of safe working practices, not just how to pass a test.

Straightforward and Reliable Service

Straightforward booking, clear communication, and certification and paperwork completed promptly with no hidden extras.

Trusted by Businesses Across Hampshire and the South

The instructor explained everything well and the course was easy to follow.

JWH, Hayling Island, Hampshire

One-to-one training. Great explanation on weights and loading techniques.

DM, Fareham, Hampshire

A seemingly relaxed pace enabled me to learn at my own speed. A good day!

LG, Romsey, Hampshire

Want to see more? Check out our Google reviews.

Conversion Course Breakdown

A typical forklift conversion training course focuses on understanding the operational differences between truck types, adapting existing skills, and developing safe operation of the new equipment through structured theory and practical instruction, covering:

Course induction
The need and reasons for training
Statutory requirements (HASAWA, MHSWA, PUWER, and LOLER etc.)
Introduction to equipment / control familiarisation / principles of operation
Identification / use / adjustment of attachments in pre-determined positions including forks
Recommended mount and dismount
Introduction to motive, steering controls and practice
Basic steering exercises – simple courses

Advanced steering exercises – figure‑of‑eight / chicane / 90° approaches
Battery recharging procedures / maintenance
Operator safety code and relevant handout
Daily pre-use inspections / refuelling procedures
Engineering principles / rated capacity / stability
Stacking / destacking at low, medium and high levels on industrial racking*
Stacking / destacking at low, medium and high levels bulk stacks*

Stacking / destacking at low, medium and high levels cup‑post pallets*
Manoeuvring with loads / ramps and inclines / handling awkward loads*
Relevant safety film
Vehicle loading and unloading (theory)*
Vehicle loading and unloading (practical)*
Multi-choice theory test
Pre-use inspection test
Practical skills test

* Topics are covered where relevant to your operation, the truck types involved, and where site facilities allow.

Not sure if conversion training is the right fit? Here’s how the different forklift training levels compare:

Forklift Training Levels Explained

All courses follow recognised ITSSAR standards and are delivered in line with current HSE guidance.

Novice Operator Training

For staff with little or no previous experience operating the relevant type of truck.

Experienced Operator Training

For operators with practical experience but no formal, accredited training.

Safety Refresher Training

For qualified operators who need to refresh skills, maintain safe working practices, and remain aligned with current guidance.

Conversion Training

For trained operators learning to use a different category of forklift truck.

For a more detailed breakdown of each training level, view our forklift training levels guide.

Related Forklift Training Courses

Trainee correctly parking counterbalance forklift truck

Counterbalance Forklift Training

Training for the most widely used forklift type, covering safe operation, pre-use inspections, load handling, and manoeuvring in real workplace conditions.

View counterbalance course →

Instructor demonstrating reach truck manoeuvring in warehouse aisle

Reach Truck Training

Training focused on warehouse operations, including safe manoeuvring, pallet placement in racking, and working efficiently in narrow aisles.

View reach truck course →

Trainee operating telehandler in outdoor working environment

Telehandler Training

Training for telehandlers used in construction and industrial settings, covering safe operation, load placement, stability, and working safely on uneven ground.

View telehandler course →

Looking for something else? View all our forklift training courses.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What is forklift conversion training?

Conversion training is designed for qualified operators who need to operate a different type of forklift or workplace equipment. It focuses on the operational differences between truck types and helps ensure safe, competent use of the new equipment.

Do operators need training for each type of forklift?

Yes. Operators must be trained and assessed on each category of forklift or workplace equipment they use, as different truck types have different controls, handling characteristics, visibility restrictions, and operational risks.

How long does forklift conversion training take?

Conversion training typically takes up to 15 hours depending on the types of equipment involved and the number of trainees. The course focuses on operational differences and adapting existing skills rather than repeating full novice-level training.

What does conversion training cover?

The course covers differences in controls, stability, visibility, handling, and safe operation between truck types, along with both theory and practical assessment specific to the new equipment.

Do you provide training at our site?

Yes. All training is delivered on-site using your equipment and normal working environment, helping operators develop practical skills in real workplace conditions.

Is conversion training a legal requirement?

Employers are responsible for ensuring forklift operators receive adequate training under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). Conversion training is required when operators move to a different category of forklift or workplace equipment to help ensure continued safe operation.

Will operators receive a certificate?

Yes. Successful candidates receive an ITSSAR-accredited certificate confirming successful completion of conversion training and assessment on the additional equipment type.

How many people can attend a course?

Course sizes are limited to a maximum of three trainees in line with recognised guidance. This helps ensure each operator receives proper instruction, supervision, and assessment throughout the course.

For more information, view our frequently asked questions or contact us directly.

Ready to Arrange Forklift Conversion Training?

Tell us about your operators, equipment, and workplace requirements, and we’ll confirm the most suitable training course and provide a clear, no-obligation quote.

Training is delivered on-site at your premises using your equipment and working environment, helping qualified operators safely adapt existing skills to additional truck types and workplace equipment.

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