Using Forklifts to Move Loaded Shipping Containers
Having the right equipment for shipping container loading is a critical aspect of any transportation process. Loaders need reliable machinery to carry out the job safely and efficiently to avoid asset damage and keep their clients’ goods intact. This includes forklifts. So what are the best forklifts to use when loading shipping containers?
Forklift Functions Required For Shipping Container Loading
Before starting on the hunt for forklifts, you need to make a list of the minimum capabilities the vehicle needs to be able to perform for various load capacities. The machine also needs to be able to safely load these capacities without dropping loads abruptly.
When looking at forklifts to carry out container loading, you need to ensure they have the following functions:
- Appropriate load capacity: Container loading can be for transportation or simply storage, and as professionals know, there is no limit to items that can be put into a shipping container. A good forklift will therefore ideally have a high maximum load capacity, so that it can be used to load various items.
- Stacking ability: Stacking is especially important if a container is loaded for storage purposes. You need to ensure that the forklift can stack items safely and securely, so a vehicle with a bit of reach is a must when loading shipping containers.
- Manoeuvrability: When you load a shipping container, you have to pack items in a concentrated space, so a forklift needs to be able to move in small areas. An ideal machine will therefore have a relatively small turning circle and dynamic movability to ensure items are placed to maximise storage efficiency.
- Pallet loading: Oftentimes items are stored in shipping containers on pallets, especially when loading bulk items and cargo. A good forklift for shipping containers must therefore have pallet-stacking functionality.
- Driver comfort: Operators will usually spend extensive periods when carrying out a container loading job. It’s therefore important that the forklift can accommodate the drivers’ comfort, ensuring they can do their jobs in a safe working environment.
Specs and Load Capacities for any Loading Job
To get the most out of your forklift moving shipping containers around a depot, you should ensure that it meets the following minimum specifications, as this will allow you to get more out of a single machine. The below table breaks down the specifications to look for when sourcing a decent forklift for this purpose.
Function | Specification |
Lifting Capacity | 8 – 50 tons |
Lifting Speed | 47 – 65 FPM |
Travelling Speed | 10 – 20 MPH with a full load |
Many professionals in the forklift business prefer brands like Toyota and Mitsubishi. Some of the best container-loading forklifts currently available on the market include:
- Mitsubishi Trexia ES (Diesel) FD80N3. This powered forklift truck has an 8 tonne load capacity and is perfect for moving empty containers around a yard.
- Toyota THD8000-L6. This has a massive load capacity of 43 tonnes and can help in moving loaded containers around a yard.
Do you use fork pockets when moving loaded shipping containers?
Short answer is no. Fork pockets on shipping containers are designed for empty lift only. Most 40ft shipping containers are no longer made with fork pockets, but there are still some being manufactured with fork pockets, and there is at least 1 major shipping line that commonly has its 40fts manufactured with fork pockets included.
Fork trucks can lift and move loaded shipping containers using lifting frames that are specifically designed for fork trucks and shipping containers.
Always follow guidelines for safe handling and moving of ISO shipping containers when using any machinery to lift and move a loaded shipping container.
Expert forklift content input for this post was kindly provided by Josh and the team of experts at Alto Handling. Established for over 20 years and based in the UK, Alto Handling offers a comprehensive range of forklift services including new & used sales, hires, maintenance, field service, emergency repairs, and operator training. If you’re in the UK and need a forklift truck for your operation please get in touch with Alto Handling.