A forklift is a powered industrial vehicle used to lift, move, stack, load, and unload heavy goods over short distances. It has front forks that slide under pallets, crates, containers, or other loads so cargo can be raised and transported safely within warehouses, ports, factories, yards, and distribution centres. Forklifts are essential for palletised freight handling, truck loading, racking operations, inventory movement, and warehouse productivity. Operators usually need training because forklifts can create safety risks if used incorrectly.
- Standard counterbalance forklift: most common for loading trucks and containers
- Reach truck: extends to reach high racking without wide turning radius
- Pallet jack (manual): for moving pallets short distances on flat surfaces
- Side loader: for handling long loads such as lumber, pipes, and steel
Cargo that cannot be moved by forklift due to weight, size, or lack of pallet requires special handling arrangements. Notify your forwarder or 3PL if your cargo requires special equipment.
Related terms: Warehousing Services, WMS, Break Bulk.
