A type of machine which is particularly utilized to load and unload heavy, big freight containers is called a container forklift. They are utilized to shuttle freight off and on ships, truck beds and trains. Container forklifts are the most durable and biggest types of forklifts made. They need to be extremely maneuverable on terrain which is uneven and have sufficient power and torque to raise bulky containers safely. Normally, they have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
A container forklift, like all kinds of forklift, utilizes forks to lift the containers. Forks have to be positioned to make certain the load is secure during transport. Some types of container forklifts are just designed to raise the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers utilize another method for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler utilizes a device attached 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.
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 most weight they could handle. The forklift's capabilities should be posted prominently in the cockpit and must never be exceeded.