Telescopic truck driver, warehouse

What does a telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse do? – Tasks and work environment

A telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse handles materials and goods using telescopic forklifts, which combine lifting capacity with reach to access high or hard-to-reach loads. Tasks include unloading and loading goods, moving pallets and containers, and ensuring materials are correctly placed according to warehouse procedures. The work often takes place in large warehouse facilities or outdoor areas where precision, safety, and good teamwork are essential. The environment is characterized by a fast pace and varied tasks, with both independent work and collaboration with colleagues common. Safety routines and work environment regulations play a central role in minimizing risks when working with heavy machinery and goods.

Salary development over time

The salary for a telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,700 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it rose to 33 500, representing an increase of about 2.4%. The most significant change occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary increased to 36 000, a rise of over 7%. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for experienced warehouse forklift drivers, as well as a greater focus on skills and safety training in the industry. The salary increase also reflects greater responsibility and higher specialization for those operating telescopic forklifts compared to simpler truck types.

Telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,700 SEK/month (women), 35,100 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 35,900 SEK/month (women), 36,400 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 216 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 35 600 SEK/month (99 % of men's salary, 36 100 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found within the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse, a high school education in logistics, transportation, or industry is usually required. Additionally, an approved forklift license with authorization for telescopic forklifts (often category C7 according to TLP10) is necessary. Practical experience and familiarity with different forklift types are advantageous, and many employers also seek basic knowledge of work environment and safety.

• Formal education: High school education in industry, transportation, or warehousing (2–3 years)
• Forklift license: License with authorization for telescopic forklift (C7)
• Certifications: Forklift training according to TLP10 and safety courses
• Practical training: On-the-job training or internship often required
• Prerequisites: Basic Swedish and mathematics skills, good physical condition
• Tips: Additional courses in safety and machinery maintenance increase employability

Common benefits and compensation

Telescopic forklift drivers in warehouses are often covered by collective agreements, providing access to overtime pay, shift bonuses, occupational pensions, and wellness allowances. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, work clothing, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for skills development through internal or external training. Some employers also offer bonus systems linked to productivity or safety performance.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a telescopic forklift driver varies by region and economic climate. With 412 job openings in the forklift profession, there are good opportunities for employment, but employers increasingly seek drivers with specialized skills and documented experience with telescopic forklifts. Challenges include physically demanding tasks, shift work, and the need for continuous training in safety and new technology. Lack of proper training or certification can limit access to more qualified roles. Additionally, automation and changing logistics flows may influence the job market in the long term.

Tips for those who want to become a warehouse telescopic forklift driver

To succeed as a telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse, it’s important to have a strong sense of responsibility, as safety always comes first when handling heavy machinery and goods. Precision is crucial—double-check loads and positions to reduce accidents and misplacements. Flexibility is needed, as tasks can vary greatly during the day, and being open to learning new equipment and methods is advantageous. Good teamwork skills are essential, especially in larger warehouses where communication with colleagues affects both workflow and safety. Finally, continuously updating your knowledge through training and staying informed about developments in logistics and warehouse management is valuable.

Key facts about warehouse telescopic forklift drivers

• Education level: High school with forklift license (C7)
• Work environment: Warehouses and outdoor environments, often shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, often unionized
• Demand: 412 job openings in the forklift profession
• Special skills: Certification for telescopic forklifts and safety experience

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a warehouse telescopic forklift driver, opportunities may open for more responsible roles such as supervisor, instructor, or logistics coordinator. Further training in machinery technology, warehouse optimization, or management is a natural next step. The forecast from the Employment Service for the forklift profession is uncertain due to limited data, but ongoing digitalization and automation in logistics could affect demand in the long term. Nonetheless, there is a stable foundation for employment, as warehouse handling and goods transportation are central functions in many industries.

Frequently asked questions about warehouse telescopic forklift drivers

• What does a telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse earn?
  - The average salary is 36 000 SEK per month, with variations between 31,700 SEK and 36,400 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How to become a telescopic forklift driver in a warehouse?
  - A high school education in industry or transportation and a forklift license (C7) are required, often supplemented with practical training or work experience.
• What are the duties of a telescopic forklift driver?
  - Tasks include loading, unloading, moving, and placing goods with a telescopic forklift in warehouse and logistics environments.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 35 600 SEK, while men earn 36 100 SEK, meaning women earn approximately 99% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like?
  - Currently, there are 412 job openings within the forklift profession, indicating good employment prospects.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, shift bonuses, occupational pensions, and wellness allowances.