Choosing the right forklift tyres is one of the most important decisions for warehouse managers, logistics operations, and construction companies in South Africa. Quality tyres directly impact your equipment's performance, safety, durability, and ultimately your bottom line. Whether you run a fleet of electric forklifts in a warehouse or manage heavy-duty diesel machines on a construction site, understanding the available brands and options is essential.
In this guide, we'll explore the top-rated forklift tyre brands available in South Africa. Both are locally-manufactured and internationally-renowned, along with their pricing, sizes, and where to purchase them.
Local Forklift Tyre Brands Manufactured in South Africa
South Africa's manufacturing capabilities have produced world-class forklift tyres specifically engineered for African conditions, superior to generic imports in many cases.
1. NUVO™ Rhino (Premium Local Brand)
Overview: NUVO™ Rhino is the only premium solid forklift tyre developed and manufactured in South Africa specifically for African environments. It's the market leader for demanding operations requiring reliability and performance.
Key Features:
- Three-stage custom rubber compound construction reinforced with steel
- Engineered to withstand harsh South African climate conditions
- Superior abrasion resistance and cut resistance
- Smoother, more controlled ride reducing driver fatigue
- Extended service life compared to imported alternatives
Sizes Available: Full range of sizes from 5.00-8 through 28x9-15, compatible with all major forklift brands including Toyota, Hyster, Yale, Crown, Linde, Nissan, and Clark.
Cost: Approximately R3,800–R4,500 per tyre (premium range, justified by longevity and performance).
Best For: 8+ hour shift operations, heavy-duty use, outdoor applications, and operations where durability is non-negotiable.
Where to Buy: Everest Material Handling – official distributors nationwide. Phone: Available through their website at everestmh.co.za. They offer collection and delivery options.
2. NUVO™ Buffalo (Value Local Brand)
Overview: Launched recently, NUVO™ Buffalo is South Africa's most competitively-priced solid forklift tyre, developed for businesses seeking value without compromising durability. It's engineered specifically for African conditions.
Key Features:
- Cost-effective alternative to NUVO™ Rhino
- Reliable performance for demanding 8–12 hour shifts
- Built for tough environments
- Compatible with all major forklift brands
- Quick dispatch available
Sizes Available: Comprehensive range covering most forklift tonnages (5.00-8 to 28x9-15).
Cost: Approximately R2,200–R3,200 per tyre (budget-friendly with solid performance).
Best For: Small to medium warehouses, businesses on a tight budget, operations with 8–12 hour shifts, new companies establishing fleets.
Where to Buy: Everest Material Handling – same distributor as NUVO™ Rhino. Bulk orders and single units available.
International Forklift Tyre Brands Readily Available in South Africa
While local brands dominate the market, several established international brands are stocked by South African distributors with quick turnaround.
1. Advance Brand Tyres (China, Imported)
Overview: Imported from China Guizhou Tyre Co. Ltd, Advance is a trusted imported brand widely available through South African dealers.
Key Features:
- Proven reliability in industrial applications
- Competitive pricing on imported goods
- Range of solid and pneumatic options
- Readily stocked by major distributors
Sizes Available: Standard sizes from 5.00-8 to 8.25-15.
Cost: R1,800–R3,200 per tyre (mid-range pricing).
Where to Buy: Forklift Industrial Tyres (Pty) Ltd – official South African agent. Also stocked by TVH South Africa and major forklift parts retailers nationwide.
2. Camso (Canadian Brand)
Overview: A globally-recognized brand for industrial tyres, Camso offers premium performance for demanding applications. Directly stocked in South Africa.
Key Features:
- Premium quality construction
- Excellent grip and traction control
- Available in solid and pneumatic varieties
- Next-day delivery available
Sizes Available: Comprehensive range for all forklift types.
Cost: R2,500–R4,200 per tyre (premium international pricing).
Where to Buy: TVH South Africa – stock Camso directly. Available through their online shop (tvh.com) with next-day delivery in 95% of cases. Call TVH for specifications and pricing.
3. Yantai WonRay (China, Premium Import)
Overview: Sole African distributor is Sunbrite Forklift Parts. WonRay WRST series tyres are engineered for high-wear environments including ports, mining, and supply chain centers.
Key Features:
- Extremely deep tread pattern and unique design
- Higher wear resistance than similar brands
- Reduced ground pressure and rolling resistance
- Available in marking and non-marking variants
- Full suspension and universal options
Sizes Available: Standard industrial range including specialty sizes.
Cost: R2,000–R3,600 per tyre (competitive imported pricing).
Where to Buy: Sunbrite Forklift Parts – sole African distributor. Website: sunbriteforklift.co.za. Specialists in Wonray tyres with comprehensive stock and fitment services.
4. Exmile (China, Multi-Tier Import)
Overview: Orizen Group is the authorized supplier of Exmile solid tyres in Gauteng. Exmile offers multiple quality tiers to suit different budgets and shift requirements.
Key Product Lines:
- Eclat Premium Range: For 8+ hour shifts, eco-sustainable components, cool-running, low rolling resistance. Cost: R3,000–R4,000 per tyre.
- Kilomax Mid-Range: Durable, all-round effective, perfect design and compounding. Cost: R2,200–R3,200 per tyre.
- Milemax Budget Range: Affordable solution for shifts under 8 hours, unique upgraded design, longer-lasting tread. Cost: R1,500–R2,500 per tyre.
Sizes Available: Full range from 5.00-8 to 8.25-15.
Where to Buy: Orizen Group – authorized Gauteng distributor. Office-based; contact for quotations and delivery options.
5. Alliance (International Premium Brand)
Overview: Everest Material Handling is the official distributor of Alliance tyres in South Africa. Alliance is a global leader in commercial tyre manufacturing for industrial applications.
Key Features:
- Premium international engineering
- Tested across multiple industries
- Excellent longevity in warehouse environments
- Backed by major distributor network
Where to Buy: Everest Material Handling – official distributor. Also available through specialist forklift retailers.
6. Yokohama-ATG (International Premium Brand)
Overview: Everest Material Handling also distributes Yokohama-ATG, a global leader in commercial tyre design for agriculture, forestry, construction, industrial, earthmoving, mining, and port operations.
Key Features:
- Engineered for harsh operating environments
- Extended service life with reduced energy costs
- High resilience with cut and abrasion resistance
- Increased tyre width for improved stability
Best For: Rough terrain forklifts, outdoor operations, mining, and construction sites.
Where to Buy: Everest Material Handling – official distributor.
Top Forklift Tyre Suppliers in South Africa
Here's where to find quality tyres, regardless of brand choice:
1. Everest Material Handling – Nationwide distributor of NUVO™, Alliance, and Yokohama-ATG brands. Collection and delivery available. Website: everestmh.co.za (Parts and Tyre premises in Boksburg Pretoria, Cape Town and Pintetown (KZN)
2. TVH South Africa – Pan-African parts distributor with over 50 years' experience. Stock TotalSource brand (proprietary), Camso, and Advance. 95% next-day delivery. Online shop available.
3. Forkman (Pretoria) – Specializes in solid tyres, pneumatic tyres, and rough terrain options. Known for "Excalibur" wide-tread brand. Contact: forkman.co.za
4. Sunbrite Forklift Parts – Sole African distributor of Yantai WonRay tyres. Comprehensive range and fitment services. Website: sunbriteforklift.co.za
5. Orizen Group (Gauteng) – Authorized Exmile supplier. Offers Eclat, Kilomax, and Milemax ranges. Website: orizengroup.com
6. ForkNTire (Durban) – Supplies and fits industrial, agricultural, and construction tyres. Serves South Africa and neighboring countries. Website: forkntire.co.za
7. Auto & Truck Tyres (ATT) – Nationwide onsite fitment services, fleet solutions, and bespoke rim customization. Trusted by OEMs and logistics companies. Website: autoandtrucktyres.co.za
8. ForkliftTyres.co.za – South Africa's first-choice forklift tyre dealer and importer. Affordable to premium options. Website: Forklifttyres.co.za
Forklift Tyre Sizes by Tonnage
Choosing the correct size is critical for safety and performance. Here are typical tyre sizes for common forklift models:
1.8–2.0 Tonne Forklifts
- Common Sizes: 5.00-8, 5.50-8, 6.00-9
- Suitable For: Small warehouse operations, retail, light manufacturing
- Example: Toyota small electric models typically use 5.00-8 solid tyres (front) and smaller rears
2.5 Tonne Forklifts
- Common Sizes: 6.00-9 (front), 5.00-8 (rear), 700-12
- Suitable For: Standard warehouse operations, most common South African specification
- Note: Front tyres typically larger than rear for load distribution
- Example: Hyster and Yale mid-range models often use 6.50-10 (front) with 5.00-8 (rear)
3.5–5.0 Tonne Forklifts
- Common Sizes: 6.50-10, 7.00-12, 7.50-15
- Suitable For: Heavy warehouse operations, larger facilities, outdoor use
- Example: Toyota and Hyster diesel/LPG models commonly use 7.00-12 or 28x9-15
Important Notes:
- Front and rear tyres are rarely the same size (fronts support load, rears for steering)
- Always consult your forklift manual or contact a specialist (like Everest Material Handling) for exact specifications before ordering
- Using incorrect sizes affects stability, load capacity, and operator safety
Understanding Forklift Tyre Types
Before purchasing, understand which type of tyre your forklift requires:
Solid Tyres (Press-On, Solid Pneumatic): Made from solid rubber, impervious to punctures, ideal for indoor warehouses and clean floors. Most common in South Africa.
Cushion Tyres: Semi-solid, used on electric forklifts in clean warehouse environments. Provide comfortable ride on smooth floors.
Pneumatic (Air-Filled) Tyres: Traditional inflatable tyres, used on outdoor and rough terrain forklifts. Provide cushioning on uneven surfaces but prone to punctures.
The Process of Changing a Solid Forklift Tyre
While professional tyre technicians handle most changes, understanding the process helps you plan maintenance and manage downtime. Note: We strongly recommend hiring a qualified tyre technician for all forklift tyre replacements, especially for solid press-on and pneumatic types, due to safety risks involving pressures up to 5,000 PSI.
Step-by-Step Solid Tyre Replacement Process
Preparation Phase:
- Park the forklift on a flat, level surface
- Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake
- Remove any load from the forks and lower forks to the ground
- Gather tools: hydraulic jack, jack stands, lug wrench, wheel blocks, and impact wrench
- Place wheel blocks under opposite side wheels to prevent rolling
- Loosen lug nuts in a crisscross pattern while forklift is still on ground
Removal Phase:
- Use hydraulic jack to lift forklift, ensuring stability with jack stands at four points
- Fully loosen and remove lug nuts
- If changing steer (rear) tyres, remove dust cap, cotter pin, and castle nut
- Remove old wheel assembly from hub
- For solid tyres: Place wheel and old tyre in tyre press
- Technician presses old tyre off slowly, ensuring wheel stays straight
- Clean and inspect wheel rim for damage
- Remove and grease bearings
Installation Phase (Solid Tyres):
- Apply heavy coating of tyre grease to wheel rim and inside of new tyre
- Place wheel on support plate with cone on top
- Carefully align new tyre with wheel
- Using hydraulic press (5,000+ PSI capacity), press new tyre onto wheel slowly
- Ensure lock ring and side rings are properly seated
- Inspect tyre for proper fitment before removal from press
Mounting Phase:
- Position wheel assembly back on hub
- Thread lug nuts on by hand until snug
- Tighten lug nuts in star/crisscross pattern to ensure even seating
- Use calibrated torque wrench to apply manufacturer-specified torque value
- For rear steering tyres, replace cotter pin and castle nut, then dust cap
Completion Phase:
- Remove jack stands and carefully lower forklift to ground
- Verify wheel spins freely and is balanced
- Test drive at low speed to confirm proper installation
- Check wheel alignment and stability before returning to operation
Why Professional Installation Matters
Solid forklift tyres require 5,000+ PSI hydraulic pressure to install—forces that can cause catastrophic equipment failure or personal injury if mishandled. Professional technicians use:
- Specialized high-tonnage hydraulic presses
- Proper safety protocols and cage containment for inflation
- Calibrated torque equipment for accurate fastening
- Expert knowledge of equipment-specific requirements
Cost of Professional Fitment: Most suppliers include fitment fees of R500–R1,500 per wheel depending on size and complexity. This is a worthwhile investment for safety and proper installation.
Forklift Tyre Costs in South Africa
Pricing varies by brand, size, and supplier:
Budget Options (Milemax, Budget Imports): R1,500–R2,500 per tyre
Mid-Range Options (Advance, some Exmile, Orizen imports): R2,200–R3,200 per tyre
Premium Local (NUVO™ Buffalo, WonRay): R2,500–R3,600 per tyre
Premium International (Camso, NUVO™ Rhino, Alliance): R3,200–R4,500 per tyre
Fitment/Installation Costs: R500–R1,500 per tyre (includes removal, pressing, balancing, mounting)
Complete 4-Tyre Replacement Cost Estimate (2.5 tonne forklift):
- Budget Option: R6,000–R10,000 total (tyres + fitment)
- Mid-Range Option: R9,000–R14,000 total
- Premium Option: R14,000–R22,000 total
Recommendations by Use Case
For High-Volume Warehouse Operations (8+ hour shifts): Invest in premium local brands like NUVO™ Rhino or international premium options (Camso, Alliance, Yokohama-ATG). Extended tyre life offsets higher upfront cost.
For Small Warehouses or Occasional Use: NUVO™ Buffalo, Advance, or Exmile Kilomax offer excellent value with reliable performance.
For Tight Budget Operations: Exmile Milemax or budget imports provide basic reliability for operations with lower shift hours.
For Outdoor/Rough Terrain: Yokohama-ATG or premium rough terrain pneumatic options engineered for construction and mining sites.
For Port and High-Wear Environments: Yantai WonRay (deep tread, designed for abrasive conditions) or Camso premium range.
Your Questions Answered
Where can I find a reputable forklift tyre supplier?
South Africa has several established, reputable suppliers with nationwide networks. Everest Material Handling (everestmh.co.za) is the largest distributor of local premium brands (NUVO™) and international brands (Alliance, Yokohama-ATG). TVH South Africa (tvh.com/en-za) is a pan-African distributor with 50+ years' experience, offering next-day delivery in 95% of cases. Auto & Truck Tyres (ATT) provides nationwide onsite fitment services, making them ideal for fleet operations. For specific brands: Sunbrite Forklift Parts for WonRay; Orizen Group for Exmile; Forkman for specialized solid tyres in Pretoria. Always verify the supplier stocks your specific tyre size and offers fitment services before placing orders.
How much do forklift tyres cost?
Prices range from R1,500 to R4,500 per tyre depending on brand and size. Budget imported options (Exmile Milemax, basic Advance) cost R1,500–R2,500. Mid-range options (NUVO™ Buffalo, Advance premium, Kilomax) cost R2,200–R3,200. Premium local brands (NUVO™ Rhino) and international premium options (Camso, Alliance, Yokohama-ATG) cost R3,200–R4,500. A complete 4-tyre replacement for a 2.5-tonne forklift ranges from R6,000 (budget) to R22,000 (premium) including fitment. Fitment costs add R500–R1,500 per tyre. Always request quotations from multiple suppliers—prices vary based on size, brand, and supplier volume discounts.
What are the main types of tyres used on forklifts?
Forklifts use three main tyre types: Solid Tyres (Press-On/Solid Pneumatic): Made from solid rubber, impervious to punctures, ideal for warehouse and indoor use. Most common in South Africa. Provide stability but less cushioning. Cushion Tyres: Semi-solid, semi-pneumatic construction, used on small electric warehouse forklifts. Provide smoother ride than solid, but only suitable for clean, smooth floors. Pneumatic (Air-Filled) Tyres: Traditional inflatable construction, used on outdoor, rough terrain, and heavy-duty forklifts. Provide cushioning on uneven surfaces but are prone to punctures from debris. Choose based on your operating environment: indoor warehouses use solid tyres; outdoor construction/mining sites use pneumatics; electric forklifts on smooth warehouse floors use cushion tyres.
What size forklift tyres does a 1.8 ton and a 2.5 ton forklift use?
1.8 Tonne Forklifts: Typically use 5.00-8 or 5.50-8 solid tyres (front) with smaller 5.00-8 or 4.00-8 rears. Small electric warehouse models may use 18x7-8 cushion tyres. Always check your specific model manual as configurations vary. 2.5 Tonne Forklifts: Most commonly use 6.00-9 (front) with 5.00-8 (rear) or 700-12 solid tyres for both axles. Some models use 6.50-10 fronts. Note: Front and rear sizes differ because front tyres carry load while rear tyres handle steering. Example: Hyster 2.5T models often specify 6.50-10 front / 5.00-8 rear. Do not assume—always consult your forklift manual or contact a specialist like Everest Material Handling with your model and serial number to confirm exact sizes before purchasing. Installing incorrect tyre sizes affects stability, load capacity, and operator safety.
Best forklift tyres for heavy-duty use in South Africa
For heavy-duty applications requiring maximum durability and performance, NUVO™ Rhino is the clear choice—it's the only premium solid tyre manufactured in South Africa specifically for harsh African conditions. Its three-stage rubber compound and steel reinforcement deliver extended service life, superior abrasion resistance, and a smoother ride that reduces operator fatigue during 8+ hour shifts. Cost is justified by longevity. Alternatively, Yokohama-ATG (distributed by Everest Material Handling) is engineered for extreme environments including mining, construction, and port operations, offering excellent cut resistance and reduced rolling resistance. Camso (stocked by TVH South Africa) is another premium international option trusted for demanding warehouse and industrial applications. For heavy-duty outdoor rough terrain, pneumatic options from premium manufacturers provide superior cushioning on uneven surfaces. Budget-conscious operators with heavy-duty needs should consider Exmile Eclat (premium range by Orizen Group), designed specifically for 8+ hour shifts with proven durability in African conditions. Avoid budget options for heavy-duty applications—the cost savings during purchase are quickly offset by frequent replacements and potential safety risks.
Final Recommendations: Quality forklift tyres are a long-term investment in safety, productivity, and cost-efficiency. Choose reputable local manufacturers like NUVO™ or established international brands through authorized South African distributors. Always verify tyre size with your equipment manual, invest in professional fitment services, and establish a preventative maintenance schedule. With proper care, premium tyres can significantly extend equipment life and reduce your total cost of ownership.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on current market information as of 2026. Prices and availability are subject to change. Always confirm specifications and pricing directly with suppliers before making purchase decisions. For safety-critical tyre installations, always use qualified professional technicians.
