A kind 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 on and off trains, ships and truck beds. Container forklifts are the largest and most durable kinds of forklifts manufactured. They have to be very maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient torque and power to lift large containers safely. Typically, they have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks to lift the containers. Forks have to be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Several kinds of container forklifts are only designed to lift the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers use a different method for lifting containers to greater heights. A container handler utilizes an apparatus affixed 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.
The main purpose of a container forklift is to raise and transport containers. Standard forklifts do not have sufficient reach for working in ports. The forks are rated based on the maximum weight they could handle. The forklift's capabilities should never be exceeded and should be posted prominently in the cockpit.