A type of machine that is specifically utilized to load and unload heavy, big freight containers is called a container forklift. They are utilized to shuttle freight off and on truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the biggest and most sturdy types of forklifts made. They have to be extremely maneuverable on terrain which is uneven and have sufficient power and torque to safely raise large containers. They usually have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
A container forklift, like all kinds of forklift, uses forks in order to lift the containers. Forks must be positioned to make sure the load is secure during transport. Several container forklift models are just designed to raise the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers use another technique for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler uses a device 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.
Lifting and transferring 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 most weight they could handle. The forklift's capabilities should never be exceeded and should be posted prominently in the cockpit.