A container forklift is particularly used to load and unload large, heavy freight containers. They are utilized to shuttle freight on and off ships, truck beds and trains. Container forklifts are the most durable and largest types of forklifts manufactured. They need to be extremely maneuverable on terrain which is uneven and have sufficient power and torque to safely raise large containers. They typically have big pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift uses forks in order to lift the containers. Forks must be positioned to make sure the load is secure during transport. Several types of container forklifts are only meant to lift the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers use another method for carrying containers to greater heights. A container handler makes use of a device affixed 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.
The main purpose of a container forklift is to lift and transport containers. Standard forklifts do not have enough reach for working in ports. The forks are rated based on the most weight they could handle. The capabilities of the forklift should be posted prominently in the cockpit and should never be exceeded.