A container forklift is specifically used to load and unload big, heavy freight containers. They are used to shuttle freight off and on trains, ships and truck beds. Container forklifts are the biggest and most sturdy kinds of forklifts made. They have to be extremely maneuverable on uneven terrain and have sufficient torque and power to safely raise large containers. Typically, they have heavy-duty diesel engines and large pneumatic tires.
Like all kinds of forklifts, a container forklift uses forks to raise the containers. Forks need to be positioned to ensure the load is secure during transport. Some container forklift models are just meant to raise the containers a few meters off the ground. Other container handlers utilize a different technique for lifting 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 maintain stability.
Lifting and transferring containers is the main purpose of a container forklift. Standard 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 must be posted prominently in the cockpit and must never be exceeded.