2021 Caterpillar GC55K-STR Propane

Hours 5559, Year 2021, Make Caterpillar, Model GC55K-STR, Category Straight Mast Forklift

This 2021 Caterpillar GC55K-STR Straight Mast Forklift shows 5,559 hours and is offered by NLEQ under stock number 148085. Priced at $29,875, it is a propane-powered, cushion-tire forklift with a 3-stage mast and 48" forks—an ideal configuration for high-throughput indoor material handling where maneuverability, clean emissions, and dependable lift performance matter.

Overview

The Caterpillar GC55K-STR is a purpose-built straight mast forklift designed for efficient, predictable handling in warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution operations. Caterpillar’s K-series cushion-tire trucks are known for robust construction, intuitive operator controls, and long-term parts support, and this GC55K-STR continues that legacy. The propane fuel system helps keep operations running with quick refueling and low exhaust odor, while the cushion tires excel on smooth floors with tight turning in aisles and staging areas. The 3-stage mast balances a low collapsed height with strong overall reach, and the 48-inch forks provide the most common pallet handling length for general warehousing.

With 5,559 hours, this straight mast forklift has been used but remains well within the typical service window for a late-model indoor unit. As with every piece of equipment NLEQ offers, it has been carefully tested and inspected so you can buy with confidence, backed by accurate, honest information about what you’re getting for your operation and budget.

Key Specifications

• Year: 2021
• Manufacturer: Caterpillar
• Model: GC55K-STR
• Category: Straight Mast Forklift
• Hours: 5,559
• Fuel Type: Propane
• Tires: Cushion
• Mast Type: 3-Stage
• Fork Length: 48"
• NLEQ Stock Number: 148085
• Price: $29,875

The listing specifies a propane powerplant, cushion tires, a 3-stage mast, and 48-inch forks—four core elements that define how the forklift will behave day-to-day in your facility. Additional common features on many GC-series forklifts include a fork positioner, side shift, multi-function hydraulic controls, specific mast heights (often stated as lowered/raised, for example 102"/219"), and capacity ratings. Because those details are not listed here, please contact us to confirm whether this unit has a fork positioner, side shift, a 4-valve hydraulic setup, specific mast heights, and the exact rated capacity. Many GC55K-STR forklifts are associated with high-capacity handling; if your application targets around 12,000 lbs or requires a particular mast height such as 102"/219", we can verify this unit’s serial-plate information for precise specs.

Condition

Every used forklift we sell is carefully tested and inspected before being offered. This 2021 Caterpillar GC55K-STR has 5,559 operating hours and presents as a solid late-model option for buyers who value dependable performance and a straightforward, indoor-ready configuration. While used equipment will naturally show signs of normal wear, our process focuses on functional integrity and accurate representation. If you need details on cosmetics, tire life, mast chain condition, or any other component-level observation, ask our team—we can provide photos, video, or a walkaround to help you evaluate the machine’s condition for your standards.

Advantages of This Configuration

• Propane power: Propane forklifts refuel quickly, run clean, and keep consistent power through the shift. For indoor operations with ventilation, propane offers a proven alternative to diesel, with less odor and faster turnaround than many battery-electric change-outs.
• Cushion tires: Cushion tires are ideal for smooth, finished floors. They provide a compact turning radius and excellent maneuverability in tight aisles, shipping lanes, and dock areas, whereas pneumatic tires are better for uneven or outdoor surfaces.
• 3-stage mast: A 3-stage mast delivers a low collapsed height for doorways and low storage beams while still offering strong lift height for racking. This helps maximize vertical storage without compromising clearance where it matters.
• 48" forks: The 48-inch fork length is the most common standard for U.S. pallet work, making everyday handling predictable and efficient. Operators can pick, stack, and stage standard loads with confidence.
• Caterpillar build quality: CAT forklifts are known for structural durability, intuitive controls, and long service life. The GC55K-STR platform is engineered for repeatable performance in high-cycle indoor environments.

Applications

This Caterpillar GC55K-STR straight mast forklift is a strong match for:

• Warehousing and distribution: Pallet-in/pallet-out handling, dock work, loading and unloading trailers, and fast-paced order fulfillment on smooth floors.
• Manufacturing: Line feeding, WIP movement, and finished goods staging where tight turning and clear sightlines are key.
• Food and beverage: Clean-running propane power with cushion tires for indoor beverage plants, cold storage docks, and production areas with maintained floors.
• Paper, packaging, and printing: Efficient handling of pallets, rolls (with the right attachment), and stacked goods, leveraging the 3-stage mast for versatile stacking heights.
• Retail and big-box distribution: Cross-docking and staging where rapid refueling and high uptime are priorities.

If your job requires specialized handling—such as frequent offsetting or aligning loads—ask about side shift and fork positioner options. Side shift allows lateral adjustment across the carriage without repositioning the truck, and a fork positioner lets the operator hydraulically move forks in and out for faster handling of varying pallet widths. Likewise, a 4-valve hydraulic setup provides the control functionality needed for common attachments. We can confirm whether this GC55K-STR is equipped as such or configure the machine to suit your needs where possible.

Ownership Value

Choosing a used Caterpillar straight mast forklift is about reliability, parts support, and total cost per hour. CAT’s dealer network and aftermarket ecosystem make it straightforward to source wear items and maintenance parts. Propane systems are widely supported, and cushion tire trucks typically see lower tire costs on smooth floors than outdoor trucks. With 5,559 hours and a recent model year, this 2021 GC55K-STR offers a compelling balance of remaining service life and capital cost control. At $29,875, buyers can capture CAT performance and proven indoor handling without the steep depreciation of new equipment.

Additionally, a 3-stage mast and standard 48" forks minimize training friction for your operators—most will be comfortable and productive quickly. If your operation is scaling, a unit like this can be integrated rapidly with minimal disruption, backing your throughput goals and safety standards.

Why This GC55K-STR

• Late model year: 2021 gives you modern refinements with a contemporary operator environment and robust componentry.
• Controlled hours: 5,559 hours is a practical range for buyers expecting many more productive cycles in indoor service.
• Indoor-optimized spec: Propane, cushion tires, and a 3-stage mast with 48" forks check the boxes for common warehouse and manufacturing needs.
• Brand confidence: Caterpillar’s GC-series forklifts have a strong reputation for longevity and predictable maintenance schedules.
• Value pricing: At $29,875, this forklift positions your operation for ROI while preserving budget flexibility for attachments or additional fleet units.

If your application targets a particular capacity or mast height—for example, a 12,000 lbs capacity target or a commonly referenced 102"/219" lowered/raised mast combination—let us confirm the exact rated capacity and mast measurements for this specific machine before purchase. We are happy to verify the serial-plate details.

Why Buy from NLEQ

NLEQ is one of the top leaders in used heavy construction and material handling equipment. Every listing is carefully tested and inspected before being offered for sale, ensuring you receive accurate, honest, and reliable information. Our team understands how equipment needs to perform on your floor—not just on paper—so we prioritize functional checks that matter to uptime, safety, and operator confidence. We provide clear photos, transparent details, and hands-on assistance to help you select the right straight mast forklift for your workload and budget.

Beyond the machine itself, NLEQ can assist with freight coordination and answer integration questions, whether you’re adding a unit to an existing fleet or building out capacity for a new facility. If you need features like a fork positioner, side shift, or a 4-valve hydraulic configuration, ask us about availability and setup options—we can help you get the right tool for the job.

Next Steps

• Request a detailed walkaround: Ask for current photos or video to review the mast, carriage, forks, tires, and operator station.
• Verify configuration: We will confirm any feature not expressly listed—such as side shift, fork positioner, mast heights (e.g., 102"/219"), 4-valve hydraulics, and the exact rated capacity—so you can plan with certainty.
• Discuss delivery: Our team can help arrange shipping to your dock with reputable carriers.
• Hold or purchase: At $29,875, this 2021 Caterpillar GC55K-STR represents strong value for indoor handling. Ask about securing the unit while you finalize arrangements.

Looking for a dependable, indoor-ready cushion tire forklift with a 3-stage mast and 48" forks? This Caterpillar GC55K-STR Straight Mast Forklift, NLEQ# 148085, is a clean, late-model option with 5,559 hours and the right fundamentals for warehouses and manufacturing floors. Contact NLEQ today to review the details, verify any additional features such as a fork positioner, side shift, mast height, or 4-valve hydraulics, and put this CAT forklift to work in your operation.