A kind of machine that is particularly designed to unload and load heavy, huge freight containers is called a container forklift. They are utilized to transport freight off and on ships, truck beds and trains. Container forklifts are the most sturdy and largest types of forklifts manufactured. They have to be extremely maneuverable on terrain which is uneven and have sufficient torque and power to raise large containers safely. They typically have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
A container forklift, like all types of forklift, uses forks to be able to lift the containers. Forks must be positioned to make certain the load is secure during transport. Several kinds of container forklifts are just designed to raise the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers use another method for carrying 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 raise and transport containers. Standard forklifts do not have sufficient reach for working in ports. The forks are rated according to the maximum weight they could handle. The forklift's capabilities should never be exceeded and should be posted prominently in the cockpit.