A container forklift is particularly utilized to unload and load large, heavy freight containers. They are used to transport freight on and off truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the most durable and largest types of forklifts made. They need to be very maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient torque and power to lift bulky containers safely. Normally, they have heavy-duty diesel engines and big pneumatic tires.
A container forklift, like all types of forklift, utilizes forks to be able to lift the containers. Forks should be positioned to make certain the load is secure during transport. Some types of container forklifts are only designed to raise the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers utilize another technique for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler makes use of a device affixed to the front of the vehicle to clamp down on either end of the container like jaws. The machine is counterbalanced with weights to maintain stability.
Lifting and transferring containers is the main purpose of a container forklift. Standard forklifts do not have enough reach for working in ports. The forks are rated based on the maximum weight they can handle. The capabilities of the forklift must be posted prominently in the cockpit and should never be exceeded.