Are Toyota Forklifts Made in the USA? A Comprehensive Overview

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Introduction to Toyota Forklifts and Global Manufacturing

Toyota, a globally recognized brand in the automotive industry, extends its engineering excellence to industrial equipment such as forklifts. The company has a long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation. But for U.S. consumers and business owners, a pressing question often arises: Are Toyota forklifts made in the USA?

The short answer is yes — many Toyota forklifts are indeed manufactured in the United States. However, the answer becomes more nuanced when considering the different models, components, and production processes involved. This article provides a detailed exploration of Toyota forklift manufacturing in the U.S., covering production facilities, supply chain practices, and the advantages of locally made equipment.

Toyota’s Entry into the U.S. Forklift Market

The Birth of Toyota Material Handling

Toyota’s presence in the forklift sector in the United States is largely through Toyota Material Handling USA (TMHU). This subsidiary was formed following the acquisition of two major U.S.-based forklift companies: The Raymond Corporation in 2002 and Toyota Material Handling, Inc. in 2007. These acquisitions allowed Toyota to establish a dominant footprint in the North American material handling industry.

By integrating local production capabilities and distribution networks, Toyota ensured that it could efficiently serve the U.S. market, including optimizing local manufacturing for many of its models.

Why Manufacturing in the U.S. Matters

Producing forklifts in the U.S. allows Toyota to meet the specific demands of American industries, from warehouse logistics to heavy manufacturing. Local manufacturing enables faster delivery times, better after-sales service, and compliance with U.S. safety and environmental regulations. It also contributes to the domestic economy through job creation and supplier partnerships.

Where Are Toyota Forklifts Manufactured in the USA?

Toyota forklifts in the U.S. are primarily manufactured at its Greenville, South Carolina facility, operated by Toyota Material Handling, Inc. (TMHI). This facility is central to Toyota’s strategy of lean manufacturing and just-in-time production — principles famously pioneered by Toyota in its automotive sector.

Another key production site is North Carolina, home of The Raymond Corporation, which specializes in electric forklifts and automated material handling systems. These domestic manufacturing sites help Toyota reduce lead times and maintain high standards of quality control.

Greenville, SC: The Hub for Toyota Lift Trucks

The plant in Greenville is one of Toyota’s most advanced production facilities in the material handling sector. It is designed with environmentally friendly principles and incorporates state-of-the-art automation and robotics. This location produces a wide range of products, including:

  • Internal combustion (IC) engine forklifts
  • Pneumatic tire forklifts
  • Order pickers
  • Reach trucks

What sets this facility apart is Toyota’s commitment to sustainability, including initiatives like reducing energy consumption and recycling plant waste.

North Carolina and Raymond Integration

Following the Raymond acquisition, Toyota significantly expanded its production capabilities in the U.S. The Raymond Corporation’s facility in Greensboro, North Carolina is instrumental in producing electric-powered forklifts, including the Raymond Core and Raymond 8210 Series. These models are designed for high-efficiency environments and are increasingly popular due to the industry’s shift toward electrification and battery-powered solutions.

The Scope of U.S. Production for Toyota Forklifts

While a significant portion of Toyota’s lift truck production is localized in the U.S., it’s important to understand that not all models are assembled on American soil. Toyota’s global manufacturing strategy involves a mix of local and international production depending on the product category and demand dynamics.

Which Models Are Made in the USA?

Toyota Material Handling USA (TMHU) produces a diverse lineup of forklifts locally. Among the most notable models made in U.S. factories include:

Model Type Manufacturing Location
Toyota 8FGU LPG-Powered Forklift Greenville, SC
Toyota 8FBU Electric Counterbalanced Greenville, SC
Raymond 8210 Electric Reach Truck Greensboro, NC
Raymond Core Electric Order Picker Greensboro, NC

The table above underscores Toyota’s integrated U.S. manufacturing capabilities across both IC and electric lift trucks.

Imported Models and Their Sources

Some Toyota lift truck models are imported from Japan, Europe, and other production hubs. For example, certain compact and indoor forklifts may be imported due to specialized manufacturing processes or component sourcing. Toyota often imports:

  • Small electric forklifts
  • Specialty order pickers
  • Narrow aisle reach trucks

These models may be used in highly specialized warehouses or applications where precision and minimal floor space usage are priorities.

What Toyota Stands For in U.S. Forklift Manufacturing

Toyota’s manufacturing philosophy, known as the Toyota Production System (TPS), places emphasis on eliminating waste, continuous improvement, and respect for people. These principles are applied globally — including at its U.S. forklift facilities — ensuring that every lift truck built in the U.S. meets Toyota’s high expectations for performance, durability, and efficiency.

Lean Manufacturing and Quality Assurance

At both the Greenville and Greensboro plants, a key tenet of TPS is incorporated. Lean manufacturing ensures that forklifts are built with minimal waste and maximum efficiency. Toyota also applies Total Quality Management (TQM) systems to maintain product consistency and minimize defects.

This attention to detail contributes to the low total cost of ownership (TCO) for Toyota forklifts in industries like food processing, automotive, and e-commerce logistics.

Sustainability in Production and Product Design

Toyota’s U.S. forklift manufacturing facilities are designed with zero landfill waste goals, energy-efficient operations, and recycling initiatives. In line with Toyota’s global environmental challenge (Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050), lift trucks built in the U.S. are increasingly aligned with energy-efficient and low-emission technologies.

These include:

  1. Use of lithium-ion batteries in electric models
  2. Hybrid and fuel-efficient engine designs
  3. Reduction in carbon footprint through local supply chains

This strategy not only supports environmental goals but also appeals to eco-conscious businesses.

Differentiating Toyota Material Handling in the U.S. Market

Toyota’s entry and development of U.S. manufacturing has strengthened its position in the material handling market. The company consistently ranks among the top three lift truck companies in North America, competing directly with the likes of Crown and KION Group.

A Focus on Customization and Performance

One of Toyota’s strengths in U.S. production is the ability to customize forklifts based on industry needs. Whether for cold storage, heavy manufacturing, or distribution, Toyota builds models that can adapt to various operating conditions. This is possible due to:

  • Dedicated U.S. engineering teams
  • Local testing environments
  • Rapid feedback loops with American customers

After-Sales Support and Service Network

Toyota Material Handling USA has the largest dealer network for industrial lift trucks in the U.S., with hundreds of branches offering sales, service, parts, and rentals. The proximity of this service network further enhances the value of U.S.-assembled Toyota forklifts.

Parts Availability and Diagnostics

With local manufacturing comes the benefit of faster access to replacement parts. Toyota’s dealers can source components quickly, reducing equipment downtime. Moreover, many models come equipped with Toyota’s System of Active Stability (SAS), which increases safety and operational efficiency.

Comparing U.S.-Built Toyota Forklifts with Imported Models

There are key differences between lift trucks manufactured in the U.S. and those imported from Japan or other global factories.

Design and Configuration Differences

U.S.-built forklifts are often configured to meet specific North American standards, including:

  • Federal safety regulations (OSHA)
  • Preferred power sources (LPG, diesel, and lead-acid or lithium battery options)
  • Right-hand drive requirement

Performance and Reliability

In third-party reliability tests and customer feedback, U.S.-made Toyota forklifts receive high marks for endurance and uptime. Their production in advanced facilities — combined with Toyota’s global standards — results in equipment that is both robust and easy to repair.

Rugged Terrain Models

Forklifts built at the Greenville plant often include rugged terrain versions, suitable for outdoor use and heavy duty cycles — something that domestic users demand in sectors like construction and distribution.

Warranty and Support

Toyota’s U.S.-manufactured forklifts typically come with localized warranty terms and service packages. These terms align with North American expectations and usage conditions, giving American buyers peace of mind.

Are All Components U.S.-Made?

While the final assembly occurs in the U.S. for many Toyota forklifts, it’s important to note that not all components are manufactured domestically. Like all major global manufacturers, Toyota relies on a global supply chain for certain parts like engines, transmissions, and electronic components. However, the percentage of U.S. content in domestically assembled models is consistently high, particularly for:

  • Sheet metal and body components
  • Welded masts and frames
  • Hydraulic systems and tires

Toyota maintains strong partnerships with U.S.-based suppliers, contributing to both quality assurance and economic growth.

Consumer Benefits of Choosing U.S.-Manufactured Toyota Forklifts

Purchasing a Toyota forklift manufactured in the U.S. delivers several distinct advantages, which can be summarized as follows:

Lower Total Cost of Ownership

U.S.-produced forklifts from Toyota offer:

Benefit Explanation
Faster Part Replacement Proximity to a vast parts network ensures reduced downtime.
Reliable Performance Made for U.S. conditions, improving operational longevity.
Custom Configurations Flexibility to tailor forklifts based on user-specific needs.

Toyota’s local manufacturing ensures that these benefits are realized across thousands of industrial operations nationwide.

Environmental and Economic Impact

Toyota’s U.S. production hubs are not just manufacturing centers; they are also committed to environmental stewardship. By operating in the U.S., Toyota reduces logistical emissions from long-distance transport and supports regional green energy initiatives.

Supporting the American Workforce

Toyota’s domestic forklift operations support thousands of skilled jobs, ranging from manufacturing and engineering to logistics and distribution. This investment in the American economy helps sustain communities and build a robust industrial sector.

Conclusion: Choosing Confidence with U.S.-Made Toyota Lift Trucks

In conclusion, many Toyota forklifts are made in the USA — specifically in South Carolina and North Carolina at advanced manufacturing facilities. While some models and components may be imported, the majority of lift trucks sold in North America are produced locally, taking into account the specific needs of U.S. industries.

Toyota’s U.S. manufacturing operations reflect its core values: quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. For business owners seeking reliable, high-performance material handling solutions, choosing Toyota offers a compelling combination of American production and global expertise.

When purchasing lift trucks for your warehouse, distribution center, or manufacturing site, asking “Are Toyota forklifts made in USA?” is a valid concern — and the answer should reassure you that many are. U.S.-built Toyota forklifts offer a perfect blend of domestic efficiency and Toyota’s legendary engineering.

Resources for Further Reading

To learn more about Toyota’s U.S. forklift operations and product lines, you can visit:

Whether you’re planning to buy, rent, or service a forklift, understanding where your equipment comes from can make a meaningful difference in performance, cost, and sustainability — and Toyota delivers strong across all these fronts with its U.S. manufacturing commitment.

Are Toyota forklifts made in the USA?

Toyota forklifts are not exclusively made in the USA, but a significant portion of their production does occur within the country. While the parent company, Toyota Industries Corporation, is based in Japan, the manufacturing and distribution of Toyota forklifts in North America are handled by Toyota Material Handling, Inc. (TMH), which operates several production and assembly facilities across the United States. This allows Toyota to tailor its products to meet the specific demands of the North American market while also supporting local job creation and economic growth.

One of the primary manufacturing sites for Toyota forklifts in the U.S. is located in Columbus, Indiana, where the company produces electric and internal combustion forklifts for the North American market. In addition to production facilities, Toyota has a strong dealer and service network throughout the U.S., enhancing accessibility and after-sales support for customers. Therefore, while the original design and research may originate from Japan, much of the production, customization, and distribution for U.S. customers takes place domestically.

Where are Toyota forklifts manufactured globally?

Toyota forklifts are manufactured in several countries around the world to support global demand and regional logistics needs. The primary manufacturing site is in Japan, where Toyota Industries Corporation develops and produces many of its core forklift models. In addition to Japan, Toyota has established production plants in the United States, Thailand, China, and Brazil. These facilities help Toyota serve regional markets more efficiently and adapt products to local conditions and regulations.

Each facility plays a role in Toyota’s global material handling strategy, reflecting the company’s commitment to localization, quality, and responsiveness. For example, the Indiana facility serves the North American market, while the operations in Thailand support Southeast Asia and global export needs. Through this global manufacturing footprint, Toyota is able to maintain high standards of quality control and innovation, ensuring that its forklifts meet the needs of businesses across a wide range of industries and geographic locations.

What is Toyota Material Handling, Inc. (TMH)?

Toyota Material Handling, Inc. (TMH) is the North American subsidiary responsible for the sales, service, and manufacturing of Toyota forklifts and related material handling equipment. Established in 1990 and headquartered in Columbus, Indiana, TMH plays a central role in serving the U.S., Canadian, and Mexican markets. It provides a full line of forklifts, warehouse equipment, automation solutions, and comprehensive support services, including parts and maintenance.

TMH operates multiple facilities, including a major manufacturing plant in Indiana, a parts warehouse, and a research and development center. This local infrastructure enables Toyota to meet the specific needs of North American businesses while adhering to the company’s world-renowned standards in quality, reliability, and innovation. Through TMH, Toyota maintains a strong, customer-focused presence in the material handling industry across North America.

How much of a Toyota forklift is made in the USA?

The level of U.S. content in a Toyota forklift varies depending on the model and specifications, but a considerable portion of the components and final assembly occurs domestically. The Columbus, Indiana, facility assembles both internal combustion and electric forklifts using a mix of imported and locally sourced parts. Toyota invests heavily in local suppliers and partnerships to increase the amount of domestically sourced material used in its forklifts, enhancing cost efficiency and supporting regional manufacturing.

This localization extends beyond manufacturing. Toyota offers U.S.-specific configurations, features, and support services to better meet the needs of American businesses. Components like engines, batteries, and safety systems may come from various sources, including U.S.-based manufacturers. Thus, while not every part of a Toyota forklift is American-made, a majority is produced or assembled in the U.S., giving customers a reliable, high-quality product with strong domestic support.

Does Toyota’s U.S. forklift manufacturing affect quality?

Toyota’s U.S. manufacturing of forklifts maintains the same high-quality standards that the brand is known for globally. The company implements strict quality control measures at its Indiana facility in line with Toyota Production System (TPS) principles, ensuring that every unit produced meets rigorous performance and safety benchmarks. The factory employs highly trained workers and uses advanced robotics and engineering techniques to maintain consistency and precision in production.

Moreover, TMH collaborates closely with Toyota’s global R&D teams to ensure that U.S. made forklifts incorporate the latest innovations and technological improvements. This approach guarantees that American-made Toyota forklifts are not only built to last but also offer enhanced efficiency, ergonomics, and environmental performance. As a result, customers can trust that Toyota forklifts built in the U.S. deliver the same world-class reliability and functionality as those made in Japan or other manufacturing hubs.

Are Toyota forklift parts made in the USA?

While some Toyota forklift parts are made in the USA, others are imported from Japan or other countries to maintain consistency in design and performance. Toyota works with a mix of global and local suppliers to source components such as engines, brakes, and electronic systems. Many of these suppliers have U.S. operations or develop parts specifically tailored for North American production models, ensuring a balance between cost-efficiency and quality.

In addition to supplier partnerships, Toyota has a major parts distribution center in Indiana that supports dealers and customers across North America. This facility ensures timely availability of genuine Toyota parts, whether they are manufactured domestically or imported. The combination of local and global sourcing helps Toyota maintain high standards in its forklifts while providing reliable, compatible replacement parts and service support to customers in the United States.

Why does Toyota manufacture forklifts in the USA?

Toyota manufactures forklifts in the USA to better serve the North American market by reducing lead times, transportation costs, and response times for customer support. By having a domestic manufacturing presence, Toyota can more effectively tailor its products to meet local preferences, regulations, and industry standards. This strategy also allows the company to strengthen its supply chain resilience, particularly by working closely with local suppliers and distributors.

In addition, Toyota’s U.S. manufacturing operations support the broader economy by creating jobs and investing in local communities. The Indiana facility, in particular, serves as a hub for production, innovation, and training, reinforcing Toyota’s long-term commitment to the American market. Manufacturing in the U.S. also allows Toyota to implement sustainable practices tailored to North American environmental goals, such as energy-efficient production methods and electric forklift development.

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