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Free forklift pre-start checklist
Check the mast, forks, hydraulics, tyres and controls before use. Download the PDF or customise a digital form for your team.
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30 checks · 5 sections · Sign-off
30 checks
The fields in the printable form, in a view that fits your screen.
- Forklift ID
- Hours / meter
- Make / model
- Date
- Operator name
- Site / location
Overhead Guard, Mast & Forks
Hydraulics & Controls
Lights, Horn & Safety
Tyres, Engine / Battery & Fluids
Documentation & Compliance
(list any item marked F: reference item # from checklist)
Defects & Action Required
- Item #
- Defect description
- Action taken / reported to
- Rectified by / date
Declaration
I declare that I have completed this forklift pre-start inspection before using this forklift. I have reported any defects or non-compliant items to my supervisor and will not use this forklift until any defects that affect safety have been rectified. I understand that failure to complete a pre-start check or to report defects may breach company policy and WHS obligations.
Operator Sign-off
Signature · Print name · Date & time
Supervisor / Reviewer Acknowledgement
Signature · Print name · Date
ILLUSTRATIVE RECORD
Make a forklift defect note useful
Sample entries, not a customer inspection or a product screenshot.
Illustrative example. These are sample entries, not a completed customer inspection.
- Forklift ID
- FL-001
- Check
- Horn: audible
- Result
- Fail
- Observation
- Horn didn't sound during the check.
- Action recorded
- Reported to the site supervisor. Forklift taken out of service pending assessment.
- Follow-up
- Repair and return-to-service confirmation still to be recorded.
Record what happened and what comes next. A failed check isn't a completed repair.
The MapTrack forklift pre-start checklist contains 30 checks across 5 sections.
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General guidance only. Check the form against your equipment manual, site procedures and local requirements before using it.
Short answer
A forklift pre-start checklist records the operator's shift-start check of a forklift: overhead guard, mast and chains, forks and carriage, hydraulics, steering, brakes, tyres, lights, horn, seatbelt and fluids or battery. Operators complete it before first use each shift, as site practice and the manufacturer require. Regulation 213 of the model WHS Regulations requires competent-person maintenance and inspection; on US sites, 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7) requires daily examination.
Checked against Model WHS Regulations as at 5 December 2025 (cited within as the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011) on by the MapTrack templates team. How we check templates
Key takeaways
- The MapTrack forklift pre-start checklist contains 30 checks across 5 sections. Sections covered: Overhead Guard, Mast & Forks, Hydraulics & Controls, Lights, Horn & Safety, Tyres, Engine / Battery & Fluids, Documentation & Compliance.
- Use the forklift pre-start checklist to record the truck, operator, date and checks before use.
- The PDF groups checks for forks, mast, hydraulics, tyres, controls and safety equipment, with space to record defects.
- Record faults and the follow-up action so the next person can see what still needs attention. Follow your site procedures and the manufacturer's instructions.
What is a forklift pre-start checklist?
A forklift pre-start checklist is a record of the checks an operator makes before using a forklift. It brings the machine details, inspection results, defects and sign-off together so the next person can see what was checked and what needs attention. This PDF contains 30 checks across five inspection sections, covering the overhead guard, mast and forks, hydraulics and controls, warning devices, tyres and fluids, and documentation.
Before using it, compare the form with the manufacturer's instructions, the forklift's power source and attachments, and your workplace procedures. Identify items that don't apply and add any checks the form doesn't cover. Record the forklift ID, operator, date and inspection results so each entry can be traced to the machine and the check. A defect note should explain what happened, who it was reported to and what needs to happen next.
The pre-start record doesn't replace servicing, a competent person's assessment or a return-to-service decision. Keep those records separately and connect them using the asset ID. The template is a starting point for your records, not a certification of compliance.
Learn more about pre-start inspections in MapTrack.
Put each defect on the forklift's own record and keep a due list for the whole fleet: forklift inspection software.
Choose the format that fits your team
Download the PDF
Use the original printable form for a paper workflow. Check it against your equipment and site procedure before the job.
Keep completed copies in your own record system and arrange any follow-up through your normal process.
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Benefits of using this forklift pre-start checklist
- Machine identification: keep the forklift ID, operator and date with the inspection results.
- Consistent records: use the same applicable checks so another person can follow what was recorded.
- Clear defects: describe what happened and the next action in the defect notes.
- Follow-up context: keep the inspection reference with the related repair or service record.
- Useful handover: show which checks were completed and what still needs attention.
- Separate sign-off: record who completed the check without treating it as repair approval.
What to include in a forklift pre-start checklist
- Forklift details: forklift ID, hours/meter, make/model, date, operator name and site/location.
- Overhead guard, mast and forks: overhead guard secure, mast and chains, fork condition and locks, carriage and backrest, load capacity plate.
- Hydraulics and controls: lift/lower, tilt, side shift, hoses and oil level, steering, brakes.
- Lights, horn and safety: lights, horn, reversing alarm, seatbelt, seat, fire extinguisher, decals.
- Tyres, engine/battery and fluids: tyres or wheels, engine oil and coolant or battery (electric), fuel/LPG, leaks, exhaust (IC).
- Documentation and compliance: operator licence, keys and start/stop check.
- Declaration: confirmation that the check was completed, defects reported and forklift not used until safe.
- Signature: operator signature, print name and date/time.
How to use this forklift pre-start checklist
Check the form suits the forklift.
Compare it with your equipment instructions and workplace procedures. Confirm which checks apply to the power source and attachments before using the form.
Record the forklift and operator details.
Enter the asset ID, meter reading, date, operator and site in the fields provided. Keep that asset ID consistent across inspection and maintenance records.
Complete the applicable checks.
Work through the inspection sections using the procedure for your forklift. Mark each result and explain any item that doesn't apply; don't mark an unchecked item as passed.
Describe and report any defects.
Record what needs attention, who it was reported to and the next action. Follow your workplace's defect and isolation procedure before the forklift is used.
Record the outcome and follow-up.
Complete the sign-off fields and record who received any defect report. Keep repair and return-to-service decisions with the related inspection or job record.
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How often should you complete this checklist?
Check before operating the forklift, following the frequency and procedure set for your machine and workplace. SafeWork NSW's forklift safety guidance calls for safety checks at the start of each day. Follow your site's process for further checks when operators change, a fault is reported or the machine returns from repair.
A pre-start doesn't replace servicing or specialist inspection. Set those intervals using the manufacturer's instructions and the relevant workplace requirements.
Which record do you need?
These records do different jobs. Keep the same asset ID across them so the history is easy to follow.
Forklift pre-start checklist
Checks before operation.
Inspection results, defects and sign-off.
Work order / job card
An individual repair or service task.
Work required, parts, labour, findings and follow-up.
Equipment maintenance log
Service history for the equipment.
Dated service entries and the next service due.
Make this form your own
From your template to your team.
Start with this template, adjust it for your equipment and site, then save and publish the digital form for your team.
- 01
Start your free trial
Use your work email to create your MapTrack account.
- 02
Customise, save and publish
Adjust the template fields and branding for your site.
- 03
Complete it on the job
Record checks, add photos and export a branded PDF.
Keep working offline
Load the form before you lose reception. Complete it offline and sync when you're back online.
Scan the asset. Open its form.
Use an asset's QR code to find and complete the forms that belong to it.
Show what you found
Capture photos and attach files so the next person has the details they need.
Take a branded PDF with you
Download completed forms as PDF reports with your company logo.
The trial uses a digital template. Completed paper records aren't imported automatically.
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers about the form, record keeping and using MapTrack.
This PDF has 30 checks across five inspection sections: overhead guard, mast and forks; hydraulics and controls; lights, horn and safety; tyres, engine or battery and fluids; and documentation. It also records forklift and operator details, defects and sign-off. Confirm which checks apply to your machine and attachments.
Link to this answerCheck before operating the forklift, following your equipment instructions and workplace procedures. SafeWork NSW's guidance calls for safety checks at the start of each day. Check your site's process for operator changes, reported faults and further checks after repairs.
Link to this answerIdentify the forklift, describe what happened and record who you reported it to. Follow your workplace's defect and isolation procedure. Keep the repair assessment and return-to-service decision with the record. The worked example shows a useful note; it doesn't authorise anyone to repair or release equipment.
Link to this answerUse N/A when an item doesn't apply to the forklift or attachment you're checking, and note why if the reason isn't clear. Don't use N/A to stand in for a check you couldn't complete. Record that limitation and follow your workplace's process before the forklift is used.
Link to this answerThe template includes engine or battery and fluid checks, but not every item applies to every forklift. Check it against the manufacturer's instructions for the machine, power source and attachments. Add any missing checks and identify items that don't apply before using it.
Link to this answerThey record different work. A pre-start checklist records checks before operation. A maintenance log keeps the history of servicing and repairs. A job card records an individual task, its parts and labour, findings and follow-up. Keep the same asset ID across these records so they can be read together.
Link to this answerNo. It's a starting point for recording checks, not a certification or a substitute for equipment instructions, training or workplace procedures. Requirements depend on your equipment and jurisdiction. Check the relevant regulator's guidance and have the form checked against your workplace's requirements.
Link to this answerFollow the manufacturer's inspection and maintenance instructions and use an appropriate competent person to assess wear or damage. A pre-start record doesn't replace that assessment. SafeWork NSW provides guidance on fork-arm wear; don't treat a general checklist as a universal testing schedule.
Link to this answerYes. Use the PDF download form on this page. You don't need a MapTrack account to get the file, and starting a trial is optional. The PDF has the full checklist, forklift and operator details, defect notes and sign-off fields.
Link to this answerThis template's download is a PDF. No Excel or Word version is offered on this page. You can annotate your PDF copy, or start a MapTrack trial to configure a digital form. The equipment maintenance log is a separate record with its own download formats.
Link to this answerYes. MapTrack's form builder lets you adjust questions and fields. Your team can complete forms on a phone, attach photos and keep submissions with the asset. Team members sign in to MapTrack, and access depends on their account permissions.
Link to this answerThe MapTrack trial is free and doesn't require a credit card. The PDF is a separate free download. Check the trial details for the current terms and the workflow you want to try.
Link to this answerApplicable regulatory standards
Use the current guidance for your equipment and jurisdiction. This general template isn't an approval or certification.
| Standard | Edition | Clauses this template relies on | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Work Health and Safety RegulationsPlant risk and inspection duties, industrial lift truck rules and the forklift truck licence class. | Model WHS Regulations as at 5 December 2025 (cited within as the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011) |
| Safe Work Australia (drafted by the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee) |
| Powered industrial trucks, Part 2: OperationsAS 2359.2:2026 covers safe operation and the maintenance, inspection and repair of powered industrial trucks. | AS 2359.2:2026 |
| Standards AustraliaSold by the publisher |
| Industrial trucks - Inspection and repair of fork arms in service on fork-lift trucksMethods for inspecting and repairing fork arms in service. | AS ISO 5057:2024 (incl. Amd 1:2026) | Whole instrument | Standards AustraliaSold by the publisher |
| Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplaceModel Code guidance on how and when plant is inspected. | November 2024 version (reviewed May 2018; amended 2021, 2023 and 2024) |
| Safe Work Australia |
| Forklifts information sheet: for owners and operatorsSafe Work Australia guidance for forklift owners and operators; guidance, not law. | July 2014 | Whole instrument | Safe Work Australia |
| 29 CFR Part 1910, Occupational Safety and Health StandardsUS sites: examine trucks at least daily or each shift, and operator training and evaluation. | Current eCFR text, up to date as of 2026-10-22 (read 2026-10-26) |
| US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (text via eCFR) |
Model Work Health and Safety Regulations
Edition: Model WHS Regulations as at 5 December 2025 (cited within as the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011)
Plant risk and inspection duties, industrial lift truck rules and the forklift truck licence class.
- reg 203: A person managing or controlling plant must manage its risks in line with Part 3.1.
- reg 213: Plant must be maintained, inspected and, if necessary, tested by a competent person, following manufacturer or competent person recommendations; annual inspection applies only if neither is practicable.
- reg 218: Industrial lift trucks must have suitable lifting attachments, be operated so risks are controlled, and carry passengers only if designed to.
- Schedule 3: High risk work licence classes, including scaffolding, rigging, cranes, hoists, forklift trucks and boom-type EWPs.
Safe Work Australia (drafted by the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee)
Powered industrial trucks, Part 2: Operations
Edition: AS 2359.2:2026
AS 2359.2:2026 covers safe operation and the maintenance, inspection and repair of powered industrial trucks.
- Section 6: Safe use and operation of powered industrial trucks.
- Section 10: Maintenance, inspection, repair and modification of powered industrial trucks.
Standards AustraliaSold by the publisher
Industrial trucks - Inspection and repair of fork arms in service on fork-lift trucks
Edition: AS ISO 5057:2024 (incl. Amd 1:2026)
Methods for inspecting and repairing fork arms in service.
Standards AustraliaSold by the publisher
Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace
Edition: November 2024 version (reviewed May 2018; amended 2021, 2023 and 2024)
Model Code guidance on how and when plant is inspected.
- Section 3.5: Inspecting plant: how and when plant should be inspected by a competent person, reflecting reg 213.
Forklifts information sheet: for owners and operators
Edition: July 2014
Safe Work Australia guidance for forklift owners and operators; guidance, not law.
29 CFR Part 1910, Occupational Safety and Health Standards
Edition: Current eCFR text, up to date as of 2026-10-22 (read 2026-10-26)
US sites: examine trucks at least daily or each shift, and operator training and evaluation.
- 1910.178(q)(7): Trucks must be examined before being placed in service, at least daily, or after each shift on round-the-clock use; defects reported and corrected.
- 1910.178(l): Operator training: formal and practical training, workplace evaluation, refresher training, three-yearly evaluation and certification records.
US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (text via eCFR)
Each source was read at its publisher and the page checked on 26 October 2026. The publisher's current text is the authority.
MapTrack publishes this template. The linked authorities publish their own guidance; they haven't endorsed this form.
The numbers behind this forklift pre-start checklist
The pages below gather the figures behind this kind of check. Each figure on them carries its source and date, so you can quote it in a toolbox talk, a budget case or a board paper without chasing the original report.
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The MapTrack forklift pre-start checklist contains 30 checks across 5 sections.
- Short attribution
- MapTrack Forklift pre-start checklist, https://www.maptrack.com/templates/forklift-pre-start-checklist
- Reference list
- MapTrack. (2026). Forklift pre-start checklist [Checklist template]. Retrieved from https://www.maptrack.com/templates/forklift-pre-start-checklist
Free to reuse with credit under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence. If you’d rather link straight to it, the page is https://www.maptrack.com/templates/forklift-pre-start-checklist.
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<div style="max-width:480px;font-family:system-ui,-apple-system,'Segoe UI',Roboto,sans-serif;border:1px solid #E5E7EB;border-radius:12px;padding:20px;background:#ffffff;">
<p style="font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0.05em;text-transform:uppercase;color:#071D49;margin:0;">Free template</p>
<p style="font-size:18px;font-weight:700;color:#071D49;margin:6px 0 0;">Forklift pre-start checklist</p>
<ul style="margin:12px 0 0;padding-left:18px;color:#374151;font-size:14px;line-height:1.6;">
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Forklift details: forklift ID, hours/meter, make/model, date, operator name and site/location.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Overhead guard, mast and forks: overhead guard secure, mast and chains, fork condition and locks, carriage and backrest, load capacity plate.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Hydraulics and controls: lift/lower, tilt, side shift, hoses and oil level, steering, brakes.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Lights, horn and safety: lights, horn, reversing alarm, seatbelt, seat, fire extinguisher, decals.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Tyres, engine/battery and fluids: tyres or wheels, engine oil and coolant or battery (electric), fuel/LPG, leaks, exhaust (IC).</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Documentation and compliance: operator licence, keys and start/stop check.</li>
</ul>
<p style="font-size:13px;color:#6B7280;margin:14px 0 0;padding-top:12px;border-top:1px solid #E5E7EB;">Free <a href="https://www.maptrack.com/templates/forklift-pre-start-checklist" style="color:#071D49;font-weight:600;text-decoration:none;">Forklift pre-start checklist</a> by MapTrack</p>
</div>Free to reuse, including commercially. This template is published under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence. Copy it, adapt it, put it on your own site or in your own docs. All we ask is that you credit MapTrack with a link back to this page. The snippet above already includes that credit, so if you use it as-is you’re covered.
About the author
Co-Founder & Commercial Director
Jarrod has spent over a decade in technology consulting and asset management, including roles at Accenture (mining and heavy industry) and CGI as an Asset Management Consultant. He co-founded MapTrack and built and scaled its original platform, then rebuilt it with Lachlan and Alex from thousands of customer conversations and 300+ user research sessions with field teams. His consulting background gives him deep insight into the operational and compliance challenges facing asset-intensive Australian businesses.
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