*This article is based on the former versions of "The impact of tire wear" and "The impact of tire wear and when to replace your tires: training video series". The text was updated in June 2025.
When keeping track of the various powerful, hard-working components of an industrial forklift, it's easy to overlook some of the most subtle, yet crucial pieces: the tires.
They may not seem impressive but think about this: it is estimated that the average drive tire on a forklift carries more than 9,600 lbs., and unlike other vehicles, forklifts have no suspension systems to dissipate shock loads. The tires absorb every ounce of your forklift and its load, making it crucial to ensure they're safe to use at all times.