OEM vs. Aftermarket Forklift Parts: What’s the Difference and When Does It Matter?

🕒 Updated November 10, 2025


When a forklift breaks down, nobody cares about brand names — they care about getting back up and running.

But choosing the wrong part can cost more later.

Here’s the simple breakdown.



What Are OEM Forklift Parts?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the same brand that built the forklift.

In plain terms:

OEM = exact fit, exact performance.

Why people choose OEM:

  • Guaranteed compatibility with your model
  • Ideal for critical lifting and safety components
  • Maintains warranty and compliance certifications (CSA, UL, etc.)

Why people don’t choose OEM:

  • Higher price
  • May require ordering and waiting

Best used for:

❗ brakes, hydraulics, mast components, electrical systems, anything tied to safety or certification.


What Are Aftermarket Forklift Parts?

Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers.

In plain terms:

Aftermarket = lower cost, faster availability.

Why people choose aftermarket:

  • Typically 25–50% cheaper than OEM
  • Great for older equipment or large fleets
  • Fast access — often stocked and ready to go

Why people don’t choose aftermarket:

  • Quality varies depending on the supplier

Best used for:

✔ filters, PM kits, tires, lights, switches, general wear items.



So When Does the Choice Actually Matter?

Choose OEM when:

  • The component affects lifting, braking, or steering
  • The equipment still has a factory warranty
  • Compliance labels matter (CSA, UL, CE, EE-rated)

This is your “don’t risk it” zone.


Choose Aftermarket when:

  • You want to save money on routine maintenance
  • The forklift is older and out of warranty
  • Fast turnaround matters more than brand-label precision

This is your “smart budgeting” zone.



The Real Takeaway

Using OEM for every part is unnecessary.

Using aftermarket for every part can be risky.

Smart operations mix both.

OEM protects reliability.

Aftermarket protects your budget.

The right choice depends on the part, the forklift’s age, and how critical uptime is to your operation.



Need help deciding what you actually need?

We source both OEM and top-tier aftermarket — and we’ll recommend what’s best based on:

  • Your budget
  • Your timeline
  • The criticality of the part


👉 Click here to request a quote.

👉 Find out which parts are more likely to fail and how to prevent downtime.

👉 Browse our CSA-certified inventory.

👉 Get a free Planned Maintenance when you sign up this month!


OEM vs. Aftermarket Forklift Parts: What’s the Difference and When Does It Matter?