A container forklift is specifically utilized to load and unload large, heavy freight containers. They are utilized to shuttle freight on and off trains, ships and truck beds. Container forklifts are the most durable and biggest kinds of forklifts made. They need to be extremely maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient power and torque to raise large containers safely. They typically have large pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
A container forklift, like all types of forklift, utilizes forks in order to raise the containers. Forks must be positioned to make certain the load is secure during transport. Some types of container forklifts are only designed to lift the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers use another technique for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler utilizes an apparatus affixed to the front of the vehicle to clamp down on either end of the container like jaws. The machinery is counterbalanced with weights to be able to maintain stability.
The main purpose of a container forklift is to lift and transport containers. Standard forklifts do not have enough reach for working in ports. The forks are rated according to the maximum weight they could handle. The capabilities of the forklift should be posted prominently in the cockpit and should never be exceeded.