Load Capacity Chart for Forklift

When it comes to operating a forklift, understanding its load capacity is crucial. With the increasing availability of various forklift options and attachments, it's essential that operators comprehend the load capacity they operate with. The load capacity of a forklift reduces when the weight is not placed at the position specified by the manufacturer. A load capacity chart provides a good basis for discussion with your supplier and gives you an idea of your ballpark limits.

The maximum weight that a forklift can lift safely when the load center is at a specified point is called its load capacity. It's essential to note that this figure may not be the same as the truck's original rated capacity. The formula used to calculate the net capacity, which is in effect your load-weight limit, can be substantially lower than the truck's original rated capacity.

When selecting an attachment for your forklift, you should also consider the truck's original capacity rating. If the load-weight limit is too restricting for your job, you may need a truck with a higher original capacity rating. Many truck manufacturers prefer not to rely solely on arithmetic formulas but instead use test methods, such as the tilt-table test.

Truck manufacturers generally calculate the net capacity of a truck with an attachment using simple formulas. The farther forward the center of gravity moves, the smaller the load weight must be and the more likely the truck is to tip forward. Attachments tend to move the center of gravity of the combined truck and load forward, which can affect the load capacity.

In addition to ensuring the safety aspect - stability and avoidance of damage to the truck - you should also ensure that the truck can do the work you need done. The capacity factor is important in your selection regardless of whether you are buying the truck with the attachment or adding it to a truck yourself.

Before making a decision, you should work closely with your truck manufacturer to ensure that you have the correct information. Their data reflects testing with specific trucks and attachments, which can help you make an informed decision about your forklift's load capacity.

Load capacity chart forklift