A container forklift is particularly designed to load and unload huge, heavy freight containers. They are used to transport freight off and on trains, ships and truck beds. Container forklifts are the most durable and biggest types of forklifts made. They have to be extremely maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient torque and power to raise large containers safely. They usually have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks to lift the containers. Forks must be positioned to make certain the load is secure during transport. Several container forklift models are just meant to lift the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers utilize a different method for carrying containers to greater heights. A container handler makes use of 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 maintain stability.
The main purpose of a container forklift is to raise and transport containers. Regular forklifts do not have enough reach for working in ports. The forks are rated according to the maximum weight they can handle. The forklift's capabilities should be posted prominently in the cockpit and must never be exceeded.