3,500 lb
Rated capacity
Electric
Power
cushion
Tire
Electric
Series
The Bobcat BC18S-5 is a 3,500 lb four-wheel electric counterbalance forklift, the middle model in Bobcat’s small-capacity cushion line. It runs the same 36V system and cushion tires as the BC15S-5, built for smooth-floor indoor work rather than yard duty.
That extra 500 lb over the BC15S-5 gives it room for heavier sub-assemblies, component racks, and packaged electronics without stepping up to a bigger machine. At 118.7 in overall length and a 70 in turning radius, it still handles tight production-floor aisles.
For light assembly and electronics work confined to a smooth concrete floor, cushion tires and the 36V drivetrain are the simpler package. Bobcat’s pneumatic X-7 trio exists for the operations that also need to cross a dock apron or a yard, so there is no need to pay for that capability if you never leave the building.
Choose the BC18S-5 when your typical pallet or rack runs a bit heavier than 3,000 lb but you do not need the full 4,000 lb of the BC20SC-5. Send us the details of what you move and we will confirm it is the right size before you order.
Companies that run our forklifts*
Specifications
Capacity & load
| Rated load capacity | 3,500 lb |
|---|---|
| Load center | 24 in |
| Configuration | 4-wheel sit-down counterbalance |
Electrical & power
| System voltage | 36V |
|---|
Dimensions
| Free lift | 5.1 in |
|---|---|
| Mast lowered height | 83.9 in |
| Overhead guard height | 86.8 in |
| Overall length | 118.7 in |
| Outside turning radius | 70 in |
| Wheelbase | 48 in |
Performance & chassis
| Travel speed | 9.3 mph |
|---|---|
| Tire type | Cushion |
Part of the Electric Counterbalance Forklifts range →
Other models in this series
Bobcat BC18S-5 sales, rentals & service near you
We stock, rent, and service the BC18S-5 across Southern Indiana, Kentucky, Middle Tennessee, and North & Central Alabama. Find your local team:
BC18S-5 FAQs
Is 3,500 lb enough for light assembly or electronics handling?
It covers most component racks, sub-assemblies, and packaged electronics loads on a single-shift indoor line. If you regularly run heavier, the BC20SC-5 tops the family at 4,000 lb, and if you run lighter, the BC15S-5 saves a little on the entry price at 3,000 lb.
Where does the BC18S-5 sit in the small-capacity cushion family?
It is the middle model, 500 lb above the BC15S-5 and 500 lb below the BC20SC-5, with a 70 in turning radius between the two. It shares the same 36V system and cushion tires as both.
Do I need cushion tires or the pneumatic X-7 line?
Cushion tires and a 36V system are the straightforward, lower-cost pick for indoor work on smooth floors. If your operation needs to travel a dock apron, gravel, or a yard, the pneumatic X-7 trio is the better match.