A container forklift is specially utilized to load and unload huge, heavy freight containers. They are utilized to transport freight off and on truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the most sturdy and biggest kinds of forklifts manufactured. They need to be very maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient power and torque to safely raise bulky containers. They typically have big pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all types of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks to lift the containers. Forks should be positioned to make sure the load is secure during transport. Some container forklift models are only meant to raise the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers use another technique for carrying containers to greater heights. A container handler uses 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.
Carrying and transporting containers is the main purpose of a container forklift. Standard forklifts do not have enough reach for working in ports. The forks are rated according to the most weight they could handle. The forklift's capabilities must never be exceeded and must be posted prominently in the cockpit.