A type of machine which is particularly designed to unload and load heavy, big freight containers is known as a container forklift. They are utilized to shuttle freight off and on truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the largest and most sturdy types of forklifts manufactured. They have to be very maneuverable on terrain that is uneven and have sufficient power and torque to safely lift bulky containers. Usually, they have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
Like all types 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 only meant to lift the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers use another technique 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 machinery is counterbalanced with weights to maintain stability.
The main purpose of a container forklift is to lift and transfer containers. Regular 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 be posted prominently in the cockpit and must never be exceeded.