A kind of equipment that is specially used to unload and load heavy, huge freight containers is referred to as a container forklift. They are used to transport freight on and off truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the most sturdy and biggest types of forklifts manufactured. They have to be extremely maneuverable on uneven terrain and have enough torque and power to safely raise large containers. They usually have big pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all types of forklifts, a container forklift uses forks to be able to raise the containers. Forks have to be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Various kinds of container forklifts are just meant to raise the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers use a different 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 maintain stability.
Carrying and transferring containers is the main purpose of a container forklift. Standard forklifts do not have sufficient reach for working in ports. The forks are rated based on the most weight they can handle. The capabilities of the forklift must be posted prominently in the cockpit and must never be exceeded.