A type of equipment which is specifically designed to unload and load heavy, big freight containers is referred to as a container forklift. They are used to transport freight off and on truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the most durable and largest types of forklifts manufactured. They need to be very maneuverable on uneven terrain and have enough power and torque to safely lift large containers. They usually have big pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all types of forklifts, a container forklift uses forks in order to raise the containers. Forks must be positioned to make certain the load is secure during transport. Various kinds of container forklifts are just 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 makes use of an apparatus 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.
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 according to the maximum weight they can handle. The capabilities of the forklift must never be exceeded and should be posted prominently in the cockpit.