A kind of machine which is particularly utilized to unload and load heavy, large freight containers is known as a container forklift. They are used to transport freight off and on ships, truck beds and trains. Container forklifts are the most durable and biggest kinds of forklifts manufactured. They need to be extremely maneuverable on terrain that is uneven and have enough torque and power to lift large containers safely. They usually have big pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift uses forks to lift the containers. Forks must be positioned to make sure the load is secure during transport. Some types of container forklifts are only meant to lift the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers utilize another technique for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler uses 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.
Lifting 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 most weight they could handle. The capabilities of the forklift must never be exceeded and must be posted prominently in the cockpit.