A container forklift is specifically used to load and unload huge, heavy freight containers. They are utilized to shuttle freight on and off truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the most durable and largest kinds of forklifts manufactured. They have to be very maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient torque and power to lift bulky containers safely. They typically have large pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
A container forklift, like all kinds of forklift, uses forks to be able to raise the containers. Forks need to be positioned to make certain the load is secure during transport. Various kinds of container forklifts are just designed to lift the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers use a different method for carrying containers to greater heights. A container handler utilizes an apparatus 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.
Lifting and transporting containers is the main purpose of a container forklift. Standard forklifts do not have sufficient reach for working in ports. The forks are rated according to the most weight they can handle. The capabilities of the forklift should never be exceeded and should be posted prominently in the cockpit.