A container forklift is specially used to unload and load big, heavy freight containers. They are used to shuttle freight on and off ships, truck beds and trains. Container forklifts are the biggest and most sturdy types of forklifts made. They have to be very maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient power and torque to safely raise bulky containers. They typically have large pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks to be able to lift the containers. Forks must be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Some kinds of container forklifts are only meant to lift the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers utilize a different technique for carrying containers to greater heights. A container handler uses a device attached 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.
Carrying 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 could handle. The capabilities of the forklift must never be exceeded and should be posted prominently in the cockpit.