Forklift telematics typically tracks who is driving each truck, when and where it is used, impacts above a set threshold, speed, idle time against time spent travelling or lifting, battery or fuel status, fault codes and the results of the pre-shift checklist. Many systems pair this with access control, so only trained and authorised operators can start a truck, and alert supervisors to impacts or failed checks. The data supports maintenance planning, fleet sizing and safety coaching. Some telematics units share hardware with proximity detection, so safety and fleet data come from one device on the truck.
The full guide is What is forklift telematics, which covers how the data is collected and its limits. Telematics records what the truck did; on its own it does not detect pedestrians, so it complements a collision warning system rather than replacing one. When comparing products, check whether impact thresholds can be set per truck type, whether a severe impact can lock the truck out until a supervisor inspects it, and how operator IDs are tied to training records. The telematics comparison sets products side by side. Agree with operators which data will be used for coaching before it is switched on.