CAT EP16N

The CAT EP16N is a compact forklift rated at 1,600 lb nameplate capacity at a 24-inch load center. That puts it in the capacity range best suited for light warehousing, retail back-rooms, and small parts movement. Keep in mind that real-world working capacity drops below the nameplate when lifting above standard mast height, handling off-center loads, or running attachments like sideshifters or fork positioners — plan on the derated capacity from the manufacturer load chart for your actual use.

Propane is well-suited for mixed indoor/outdoor operations, loading docks, and facilities that need fast refuel cycles for multi-shift work.

Advantages: fast tank swap (under a minute), strong torque on ramps and grades, no charging infrastructure needed, reliable in cold weather.

Tradeoffs: higher operating cost than electric, produces CO and NOx that require ventilation or catalyst, noisier operation, emissions compliance overhead.

Propane (LPG) trucks are typically ITA Class IV (cushion tire, indoor) or Class V (pneumatic tire, indoor/outdoor). For a deeper power type comparison, see our Electric vs Propane Forklifts guide.

Cushion tires are bonded rubber on a metal band — ideal for smooth concrete floors indoors, with a tighter turning radius and lower overall truck height than pneumatic. Not suitable for outdoor or rough surfaces.

Operations that most commonly run the CAT EP16N or comparable compact forklifts include:

• Small to mid-size warehouses with standard 48×40 GMA pallets
• Retail back-room and receiving operations
• Light manufacturing and assembly support

New units in this capacity typically run $18,000–$28,000 before attachments; used units with under 4,000 hours list at $8,000–$14,000.

Leasing is worth considering if your accounting prefers operating expenses, or if you want a factory-backed service contract bundled in. Operating leases run 36–60 months with a fair-market-value buyout; capital leases let you own at the end with more up-front.

If the CAT EP16N fits your operation, the fastest path is to request quotes from three dealers with identical specs — capacity, mast height, tire type, and any attachments — then compare. Pricing can swing 10–20% on identical specs across dealers, and the dealer behind the truck matters more than the brand itself (response time, PM contract pricing, and loaner unit availability all vary).

For buyers evaluating used units, work through our used forklift inspection checklist before committing — hour meter reading, mast channel wear, and hydraulic drift under load are the three items that most commonly kill a used purchase after the fact.

For the regulatory side, every operator of a powered industrial truck must be OSHA-certified under 29 CFR 1910.178, with recertification every 3 years. See our OSHA certification guide for what a compliant training program covers.