As California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations evolve, businesses operating forklifts must take action to ensure CARB forklift compliance. These new regulations, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, are poised to impact businesses relying on internal combustion forklifts significantly. This blog provides key insights into these changes and helps companies navigate the transition with minimal disruption.

Understanding CARB Forklift Compliance & Regulations

CARB’s latest initiative targets Class IV (cushion tire forklifts) and Class V (pneumatic tire forklifts) with lifting capacities up to 12,000 lbs powered by LPG or gasoline. The goal is clear: reduce greenhouse gas emissions, curb air pollution, and accelerate the adoption of zero-emission material handling equipment.

For businesses operating in California, compliance with CARB’s forklift regulations means a significant shift in fleet management strategies. Companies must phase out non-compliant equipment and transition to electric forklifts or zero-emission alternatives. While this presents an operational challenge, it also offers an opportunity to modernize fleets, reduce long-term operating costs, and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Who Needs to Comply with CARB Forklift Compliance Regulations?

These regulations will impact a wide range of businesses, including:

• Warehouses and distribution centers that rely on LPG or gasoline-powered forklifts.
• Manufacturing facilities with aging internal combustion fleets.
• Companies planning new operations in California, such as zero-emission forklifts, must be integrated from the outset.
• Businesses with upcoming forklift lease expirations must align fleet decisions with CARB’s requirements.

The Road to CARB Forklift Compliance: What Businesses Need to Do

Transitioning to a zero-emission, CARB forklift-compliant fleet, requires careful planning and execution. Here are key steps businesses should take:

1. Conduct a Fleet Assessment – The first step is to understand your current fleet composition. Identify which forklifts will be affected by CARB’s regulations and determine the best replacement strategy.
2. Evaluate Electric Forklift Solution – The shift to zero-emission forklifts primarily involves adopting electric models. While electric forklifts offer long-term savings on fuel and maintenance, businesses must consider charging infrastructure, battery life, and operational efficiency.
3. Plan for Infrastructure Changes – Deploying electric forklifts may require facility upgrades, such as installing charging stations and ensuring adequate power supply. Fleet Team can help assess your site’s readiness and provide recommendations for seamless integration.
4. Explore Financial Assistance – California offers various incentives, grants, and low-interest financing options to assist businesses with fleet electrification. Fleet Team can help navigate these opportunities to maximize cost savings.
5. Implement a Phased Transition Plan – Replacing an entire fleet at once may not be feasible. A phased approach—starting with high-use forklifts or those nearing end-of-life—can help businesses manage costs and maintain operational efficiency.

Challenges and Considerations

While transitioning to electric forklifts offers long-term benefits, businesses must address some key challenges:

• Upfront Costs: Electric forklifts have lower operating costs, but initial acquisition and infrastructure investments can be significant.
• Charging Logistics: Managing battery charging schedules is essential to avoid downtime.
• Operational Adaptation: Training employees on new equipment and implementing new maintenance protocols will be necessary.

Our team works alongside businesses to develop customized transition plans that minimize disruption and maximize efficiency.

Why Proactive Planning is Crucial

Waiting until the 2026 deadline to address compliance could lead to rushed decisions, limited equipment availability, and higher costs. By acting now, businesses can take advantage of available incentives, ensure a smoother transition, and gain a competitive edge in sustainability efforts.

Fleet Team is committed to supporting businesses through this regulatory shift. Our expertise in fleet management, infrastructure planning, and financial assistance guidance ensures that companies can transition to zero-emission equipment without compromising efficiency.

Let’s Plan Your CARB Compliance Strategy

The material handling industry is evolving, and businesses that proactively adapt will be best positioned for success. Fleet Team is here to help you navigate CARB regulations with expert guidance, tailored transition plans, and strategic fleet management solutions.

Contact Fleet Team today to start planning your transition to a zero-emission fleet. Let’s turn compliance into an opportunity for efficiency, sustainability, and long-term cost savings.