How to Lay Gravel for Forklift Traffic

Measure the area for the forklift traffic to traverse. If it is a yard-type area, where the forklift will need to access all directions, the entire area needs to be gravel. Construct a gravel pathway or drive to lead to access points to save some work.

Mark the boundaries of the gravel area. Use a measuring tape to measure the sides of the drive or pad. Place a temporary wood stake at each corner, or at 20-foot intervals along a long drive on each side. Use the chalk string line to mark the outside lines of the area.

Dig and scrape 2 inches of the top of the soil away in the area the gravel will be laid. Use the boundary lines to mark the edges of where the soil needs to be removed. Use the front end loader to scrape the soil out and smooth the base to prepare for the gravel.

Begin at the farthest point of the drive or pad to fill the area with gravel. Take one bucket full of 2A modified gravel and dump it, then using the bucket spread it evenly. Fill the 2-inch area and add another 2 inches of gravel on top for a total gravel base of 4 inches. When you have a section filled move forward and continue filling out until the entire drive or pad has a 4-inch pad of the gravel.

Drive over the gravel with the front end loader or other heavy equipment to pack it down. More gravel may need to be added once this is done. This type of gravel is designed to pack together and interlock with less gaps between the stone for a tight even base, but it takes heavy weight to push it in place. Add more gravel as needed during the packing and settling work. Make the surface as smooth and hard packed as possible so the forklift wheels will adhere without sinking.