A container forklift is specially used to unload and load huge, heavy freight containers. They are used to shuttle freight off and on truck beds, trains and ships. Container forklifts are the largest and most durable types of forklifts manufactured. They have to be extremely maneuverable on uneven terrain and have enough torque and power to safely raise bulky containers. They typically have large pneumatic tires and heavy-duty diesel engines.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift utilizes forks to be able to lift the containers. Forks should be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Several types of container forklifts are just meant to raise the containers several meters off the ground. Other container handlers use a different technique for carrying containers to greater heights. A container handler makes use of 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.
The main purpose of a container forklift is to lift and transfer 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 capabilities of the forklift must never be exceeded and should be posted prominently in the cockpit.