A container forklift is specially used to unload and load large, heavy freight containers. They are utilized to transport freight on and off ships, truck beds and trains. Container forklifts are the most durable and largest kinds of forklifts made. They need to be very maneuverable on terrain that is uneven and have sufficient torque and power to raise bulky containers safely. Usually, they have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks to raise the containers. Forks have to be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Several container forklift models are just meant to lift the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers use a different technique for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler utilizes a device attached 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 sufficient reach for working in ports. The forks are rated according to the maximum weight they could handle. The capabilities of the forklift must never be exceeded and must be posted prominently in the cockpit.