Using Forklifts to Load or Move Empty Shipping Containers
Any decent forklift or handling company will ensure that you have all the necessary equipment to carry out the loading job in the best possible way. If you approach a consultant about buying or renting a forklift, then they should also suggest appropriate accessories. For example, container loading forklift trucks will need to have a ramp to get items into the container from ground level. Which we also offer here.
When loading a container, safety should be the top priority. There should also be safety equipment such as safety lighting, proper training on the forklift operation, and a full rundown of the machine’s service history, especially if you are renting equipment. Forklifts should always be operated by a qualified driver.
To get the most out of your forklift for loading empty shipping containers you should have a look at the following suggested minimum specifications, as this will allow you to get more out of a single machine.
Function | Specification |
Lifting Capacity | 8 – 50 tons |
Lifting Speed | 47 – 65 FPM |
Travelling Speed | 10 – 20 MPH with a full load |
Never use a forklift truck which has the capacity the same as the weight of the load you are trying to lift. You typically want to use a truck with at least 25% more capacity than the load you are lifting.
It also never hurts to have a truck capable of lifting the gross weight (ie. The units you are loading + the container itself) just in case you ever need to move it around on site when fully laden.
Always ask your supplier about their suggested additional equipment to ensure you get the best out of the service.
For container loading, there is a wide range of options available. To ensure that you get the machine that can do the job properly, there are a few key points you need to know before contacting a forklift supplier.
- Which items are being loaded into the shipping container
- The gross weight of the container after it has been loaded
- The weight of individual items
- Information on how the items should be stored
- Whether or not the container will need moving before or after loading
- Functions to be performed during loading (e.g. distance to move stacking, loading, or removing items
Having this information to hand will make the process of acquiring the right forklift a lot easier, although a professional will be able to ascertain the best solution for you through understanding the scope of the container loading project.
Many thanks to Josh and the team of experts at Alto Handling for providing the content for this guest post. UK based Alto Handling has been established for over 20 years, they offer a comprehensive range of forklift services including new and used sales, hires, maintenance, field service, emergency repairs, and operator training. If you need a forklift truck for your UK based operation please get in touch with Alto Handling.