A kind of machine that is specially designed to unload and load heavy, large freight containers is referred to as a container forklift. They are utilized to shuttle freight off and on ships, truck beds and trains. Container forklifts are the most sturdy and largest kinds of forklifts made. They have to be very maneuverable on uneven terrain and have enough power and torque to safely lift bulky containers. Normally, they have big pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks in order to lift the containers. Forks need to be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Several kinds of container forklifts are just meant to lift the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers use a different method for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler uses 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 be able to maintain stability.
Lifting and transporting containers is the main purpose of a container forklift. Regular forklifts do not have enough reach for working in ports. The forks are rated according to the maximum weight they could handle. The capabilities of the forklift must be posted prominently in the cockpit and must never be exceeded.