A container forklift is particularly utilized to load and unload huge, heavy freight containers. They are utilized to shuttle freight on and off trains, ships and truck beds. Container forklifts are the biggest and most durable types of forklifts made. They have to be extremely maneuverable on uneven terrain and have enough power and torque to safely lift bulky containers. They typically have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks in order to raise the containers. Forks need to be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Some kinds of container forklifts are only designed to lift the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers utilize a different technique for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler utilizes a device 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 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 according to the maximum weight they could handle. The forklift's capabilities must be posted prominently in the cockpit and must never be exceeded.