Search

Buying and Selling Autos and Auto Accessories

Checking a Forklift Truck is Ready to be Transported Safely

2 October 2017

Henry Obrien

Forklift trucks are relatively small pieces of machinery, which is one of the reasons they're so useful in cramped, compact working areas. When you need to move them from one place to another, however, don't let their small size fool you into thinking it's a simple task.

If you're loading a forklift onto a transportation truck, complacency can have serious consequences, for the driver, the people receiving the equipment, and the equipment itself. Because it's such an unusually-shaped machine, a forklift needs to be loaded with particular care. Follow these tips and you'll help ensure everyone involved is kept safe.

Load it the right way around

You might not think it matters which way round a forklift is loaded, but there's one very good reason for taking care with it. If the truck is loaded with the forks facing in the direction of travel, it can put the driver at serious risk. In the event of an accident, those forks can pierce through the truck's cab and cause injuries. Because of this, you should make sure they're pointing backwards. This might make it more difficult to load multiple forklifts onto the same truck, but it's an essential thing to do.

Check the forklift over

Before loading, you should give the forklift truck a visual inspection. Look out for any signs of damage and anything that might cause problems while it's being transported. Pay particular attention to the wheels, forks, and any parts that are removable.

Make sure it's secured

Because forklift trucks are quite small, they're even more important to secure properly once they're on the larger truck. They can move about more due to their low weight, which presents a danger to the driver and to other vehicles on the road.

Use strong straps or chains and ensure they're properly secured to the transporter before you allow it to leave. It's also a good idea to put some chocks next to the forklift's wheels to make doubly sure it won't roll out of place.

Leave the forklift in a safe state

Make sure it's powered down, and also disengage any power switches you can. Put the brakes on, disconnect the battery if possible, and make sure the forks are in the lowered position. You should also check that windows and doors are closed and locked, but remember to send the keys to its destination so it can be unlocked again when it arrives.

Share