Don't choose a forklift on tonnage alone
How lift height, load center and floor conditions shape your choice.
The first step in choosing a forklift is defining the load and the working environment together. Beyond load weight, consider the load dimensions, its center of gravity and the height it must be lifted to.
Read the load chart
The manufacturer's load chart shows the permitted capacity at a given height and load center. The nominal tonnage on a listing card does not replace this check.
Environment and power
Indoors, look at the power type, ventilation and charging options; outdoors, at the floor, tires and gradients. Door heights, aisle widths and turning space belong on the checklist too.
Compare models within the same class. Verify mast type, lift height and the effect of attachments on capacity against manufacturer documents.
