A forklift’s load capacity is defined as a specific weight at a specific load center. While your forklift may be rated to lift 6,000 pounds, that maximum capacity can be reduced based on the shape of the load you are moving. Objects with longer load centers cannot be as heavy as shorter objects due to the physics involved with forklift counterweights. The maximum capacity of a forklift is negatively affected by larger load centers, higher lifting heights, and added attachments to the forklift, as well as other factors.
A forklift data plate contains essential information about the forklift, such as its operating weight, rated maximum capacity, model and serial numbers, any present attachments, and it load capacity chart. Some manufacturers include the load capacity chart as a table giving the maximum weight lifted at different mast stages for different load centers. Others provide this information as a chart to highlight the differences between the different factors. Being able to locate the maximum capacity, load center dimensions, and load height are essential for safe operation of the forklift.
Click to download Forklift Load Capacity Chart
Forklift attachments, carriages, and other features each carry their own rated maximum capacity. If you are modifying a forklift after purchase it must be re-rated by the manufacturer to ensure safety and compliance with OSHA standards. It is important to know that your maximum load capacity is determined by the lowest maximum capacity of any of the components present on that particular piece of equipment.
Yes, forklift load capacities decrease at higher load heights. This is due to a forklift’s multi-stage mast’s construction. It is essential for operators to understand the decreased lifting capacities at tall heights in order to avoid equipment malfunction, damage, and possible harm to equipment operators.
Both OSHA and ANSI require that each forklift attachment has its own data plate. They also require written approval to be secured from the forklift manufacturer for any after-market modifications that can affect the equipment’s capacity, stability, and safe operation.
ANSI B56.1 Section 7.6.3 provides two methods for forklift manufacturers to calculate a forklift’s capacity. The maximum capacity can be calculated based on various factors, such as lift heights, load centers, attachments, and other factors. The second requires forklifts to be chained to a tilt table and tested according to guidelines in ANSI B56.1 Section 7.6.4.
Maintaining accurate documentation of your fleet’s rated capacities is essential for the safety of your warehouse, equipment, and employees. Some other best practices include:
The potential damage and harm from exceeding a forklift’s rated load capacity is devastating. Building a culture of safety that includes understanding how to read a forklift load capacity chart and how to apply that information to your daily operation is essential for keeping your workplace and employees safe.
Further Reading:
Remote or On-Site Forklift Operator Training Classes
Top Reasons to Buy a Used Forklift
Kalmar Forklift Models for Sale