Walk-behind stackers with a counterweight instead of straddle legs, so the forks reach closed-bottom pallets, stacked skids and loads a straddle machine cannot clear.
Get Free Quotes 👑A counterbalanced stacker solves the one problem a straddle stacker cannot. Instead of outrigger legs running forward under the pallet, it carries a counterweight in the chassis behind the mast, exactly the way a sit-down forklift does. Nothing projects ahead of the fork tips, so the truck will pick up a closed-bottom skid, a drum on a pallet, a crate sitting flat on the floor, or a load pushed tight against a wall. That capability costs capacity. Because the counterweight has to balance the load on a frame small enough to walk behind, machines in this class are rated from about 1,550 lb at the compact end up to 3,300 lb on the heaviest frames, where a straddle stacker of similar size manages 4,400 lb. You are paying weight for access. Lift heights follow the same fixed bands as the rest of the walkie market: 118, 130, 138, 177 and 189 inches are the ones you will actually be quoted. Side-shifting masts are a common option and worth asking about. A side shift of three or four inches each way lets the operator line the forks up with a pallet without inching the whole truck back and forth, which on a shift of 150 picks is real time. These machines sit between an electric pallet jack and a three-wheel rider forklift. If your loads are all open-bottom pallets, buy a straddle stacker and save the money. If you handle mixed loads, closed-bottom skids, or anything that has to come off the floor flat, the counterbalanced version is the only one of the two that will do the job every time.
Whether you're outfitting a new facility, replacing aging equipment, or scaling up for a busy season, choosing the right counterbalanced stackers comes down to matching the machine to your loads, your environment, and your budget. Below we break down what they cost, how to choose, and whether buying or renting makes more sense — then connect you with trusted dealers for free quotes.
Counterbalanced Stackers are a fit for operations that need walk-behind stackers with a counterweight instead of straddle legs, so the forks reach closed-bottom pallets, stacked skids and loads a straddle machine cannot clear. You'll find them across warehousing, distribution, manufacturing, retail stockrooms, construction, and logistics — anywhere loads need to be moved, stacked, or placed efficiently and safely. The right configuration depends on your surface, aisle width, lift height, and duty cycle, all of which a good dealer will factor into their recommendation.
Pricing spans a wide range depending on capacity, age, hours, brand, and condition. As a general guide, used counterbalanced stackers often sell for roughly 40–60% of comparable new pricing, making them the value choice for many buyers, while new units command a premium in exchange for full warranty coverage, zero operating hours, and the latest safety and efficiency technology. Rental is also an option, typically billed daily, weekly, or monthly, with longer terms delivering better effective rates. Because the same spec can vary by thousands of dollars between suppliers, comparing multiple quotes is the best way to know you're paying a fair price. See our full forklift price guide →
If you'll use a counterbalanced stacker regularly and long-term, buying almost always costs less over time and builds an asset for your business. If your need is short-term, seasonal, project-based, or uncertain, renting protects your cash flow and avoids maintenance and storage obligations. A common rule of thumb: if you'll need the machine more than about six to eight months a year, buying tends to win. Many operations run a mix — owning their core fleet and renting to cover peaks. Explore rental options →
When evaluating counterbalanced stackers, pay close attention to the hour meter and maintenance history, the condition of the mast, forks, tires, and hydraulics, and any signs of hard use or deferred service. Confirm the capacity rating suits your heaviest loads, that the fuel or power type fits your environment, and that parts and service support are available locally. Whenever possible, inspect the machine in person or have a qualified technician do so before you commit.
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Counterbalanced Stackers prices depend on capacity, age, hours, brand, and condition. Used models typically offer the best value at roughly 40–60% of new pricing, while new units carry full warranties and the latest features. Because pricing varies so widely by spec and supplier, the fastest way to get accurate numbers is to request free quotes and compare several dealers side by side.
Yes. Counterbalanced Stackers are available for rent by the day, week, or month, which is ideal for short-term projects, seasonal demand, or trying a model before you commit to buying. Longer rental terms carry much better effective daily rates. Request a quote and we'll match you with rental providers in your area.
Counterbalanced Stackers are typically available in the 1,550 to 3,300 lb range. Choosing the right capacity means accounting for your heaviest expected load plus the pallet and any attachments, with a safety margin on top. If you're unsure, our specialists can help you size it correctly.
For most buyers, yes. A well-maintained, inspected used unit from a reputable dealer delivers reliable service at a fraction of new-equipment cost. The keys are buying from a trusted source, reviewing the maintenance history, and having the machine inspected before purchase.
The single most effective way to get a fair price is to compare multiple dealers rather than accepting the first offer. The same specification can vary by thousands of dollars between suppliers. Forklift Quote King gathers competing quotes for you at no cost, so dealers compete for your business.
Absolutely. Tell us what you're lifting, where you're operating, and whether you want to buy or rent, and we'll match you with dealers who can recommend the right counterbalanced stackers for the job and quote it for you — free and with no obligation.