{"id":7491,"date":"2024-01-17T13:27:07","date_gmt":"2024-01-17T13:27:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/news\/forklift-glossary-everything-forklift\/"},"modified":"2024-01-17T13:27:07","modified_gmt":"2024-01-17T13:27:07","slug":"forklift-glossary-everything-forklift","status":"publish","type":"news","link":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/uk\/news\/forklift-glossary-everything-forklift\/","title":{"rendered":"Forklift Glossary: Everything Forklift"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Forklift terms can be hard to comprehend, especially if you&#8217;re new to the industry. To assist you in navigating the forklift world, we&#8217;ve compiled a comprehensive glossary of common forklift terms. This resource aims to clarify, educate, and support your understanding, whether you&#8217;re just starting out or are looking to refresh your knowledge.<\/p>\n<p>This glossary has 3 main categories, including forklifts <strong>types<\/strong>, <strong>parts<\/strong>, and <strong>features<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Forklift Types<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3>Reach forklift<\/h3>\n<p>This forklift is specialized for <strong>storage environments<\/strong> with very <strong>narrow aisles<\/strong>. It features a unique<strong> telescopic mast<\/strong> and an <strong>extendable fork<\/strong> that can &#8216;reach&#8217; into shelving units to access loads. This design allows for efficient use of storage space by minimizing the aisle width required for operation.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_93303\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-93303\" style=\"width: 722px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/efs101\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-93303\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/reach.jpg\" alt=\"Reach forklift with small size and dimensions.\" width=\"722\" height=\"333\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-93303\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Reach forklift with small size and dimensions by EP.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>At EP, we offer a range of warehouse equipment including <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/blog\/2022\/01\/21\/best-small-electric-forklifts-for-tight-spaces\/\">small electric forklifts<\/a>, which are perfectly suitable for maneuvering and operating in narrow aisles.<\/p>\n<h3>Counterbalance Forklift<\/h3>\n<p>The most widely-used type of forklift. It has a straightforward design with the forks protruding from the front of the machine, and a counterweight at the back to <strong>stabilize loads<\/strong>. This forklift is versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, from <strong>warehouses<\/strong> to <strong>construction sites<\/strong>, for transporting and lifting a range of goods.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_93315\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-93315\" style=\"width: 529px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/cpd15-20-30-35l1\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-93315\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Counter-1024x683.png\" alt=\"Electric counterbalance forklift by EP.\" width=\"529\" height=\"353\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-93315\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Electric counterbalance forklift.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>EP has a wide portfolio of electric counterbalance trucks, for example, our <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/cpd15-20-30-35l1\/\">CPD series<\/a> are electric counterbalance forklift trucks with up to<strong> 2000KG of capacity<\/strong>. With Li-Ion technology build into the L1 counterbalance truck, the machine even allows <strong>quick charging<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>Rough Terrain Forklift<\/h3>\n<p>Built for outdoor use on uneven and rough surfaces, this forklift is equipped with large, durable tires and a <strong>robust design<\/strong>. It&#8217;s commonly used in construction, agriculture, and <strong>any industry requiring the movement of materials over challenging terrain<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_93906\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-93906\" style=\"width: 466px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/efl702-1002\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-93906\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/rough.png\" alt=\"Electric forklift with robust design, durable tires and high capacity, suitable for heavy industry and rough terrain.\" width=\"466\" height=\"396\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-93906\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Electric forklift by EP, with robust design, durable tires and high capacity, suitable for heavy industry and rough terrain.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>At EP, we proudly present the <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/efl253-303-353s-p\/\">EFL series<\/a> &#8211; they keep pace with every application need, especially challenges posed by rugged environments or tight work shifts.<\/p>\n<h3>Order Picker Forklift<\/h3>\n<p>Specifically designed for warehouse <strong>order picking tasks<\/strong>. This forklift allows the operator to be lifted up with the forks to access high shelves directly. It is ideal for hand-picking and transporting smaller orders and is commonly used in distribution centers and large-scale retail warehouses.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_93917\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-93917\" style=\"width: 378px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/order-picker\/jx0-2\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-93917 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/order.png\" alt=\"EP's JX0 order picker, with low self weight and compact design.\" width=\"378\" height=\"452\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-93917\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">EP&#8217;s JX0 order picker, with low self weight and compact design.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>EP offers <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/order-picker\/\">various models of order pickers<\/a> for diversified requirements, with different batteries and picking height of up to 6.5 meters.<\/p>\n<h3>Walkie Stacker Forklift<\/h3>\n<p>A type of <strong>pedestrian forklift<\/strong> where the operator <strong>walks behind the vehicle<\/strong>. It\u2019s ideal for stacking operations in tight spaces and for short-distance transportation of pallets.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_93952\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-93952\" style=\"width: 716px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/stacker\/es16-rs\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-93952\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/DSC02575.jpg\" alt=\"EP's ES-RS electric stacker.\" width=\"716\" height=\"358\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-93952\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">EP&#8217;s ES-RS electric stacker.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>EP offers a range of <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/stacker\/\">diversified models<\/a> that can be used as both <strong>standard walkie stackers<\/strong> (when the platform is raised and operated with low speed) and <strong>ride-on, drive-through stackers<\/strong> (when the platform is used by the operated and the speed is increased), to suit your needs for different tasks.<\/p>\n<h3>Telescopic Handler Forklift<\/h3>\n<p>Telescopic handler, as called <strong>telehandler<\/strong>, is a highly versatile forklift, featuring a boom and extendable arm that can reach high elevations. It&#8217;s often used in construction and agriculture for tasks that require lifting materials to <strong>significant heights<\/strong> or <strong>distances<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>Side Loader Forklift<\/h3>\n<p>Uniquely designed for handling long or wide loads, such as timber or pipes, in<strong> narrow aisles <\/strong>where turning is difficult. This forklift carries loads on its side, allowing it to move easily through narrow passageways without turning the load.<\/p>\n<h3>Pallet Stacker<\/h3>\n<p>A stacker is a vehicle that is used to lift, move and stack pallets. Designed for stacking and transporting pallets in <strong>confined spaces<\/strong>, stackers are an alternative to traditional pallet trucks as they can <strong>lift<\/strong> as well as <strong>move<\/strong>, and they are a better choice than forklifts as they are <strong>less cumbersome<\/strong> and <strong>easier to manoeuvre.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_93895\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-93895\" style=\"width: 424px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/stacker\/esa121\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-93895\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/stacker-819x1024.png\" alt=\"EP's ESA121 stacker product.\" width=\"424\" height=\"530\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-93895\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">EP&#8217;s ESA121 stacker product.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>EP Equipment offers a large variety of <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/stacker\/\">electric pallet stackers<\/a><strong> for every application.<\/strong> Starting with entry level stacker for<strong> light duty application<\/strong> over <strong>heavy duty stacker with lead acid<\/strong> or <strong>Li-Ion Battery<\/strong> to special application trucks like <strong>counterbalance stacker trucks<\/strong> or<strong> end rider solutions. <\/strong>Read our <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/blog\/2020\/07\/28\/the-ultimate-guide-to-electric-stackers\/\">complete stacker guide<\/a> to understand more about stackers &#8211; how do they work, their use cases, benefits, and what is the right one for you.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Parts &amp; Attachments<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3>Pneumatic Tires<\/h3>\n<p>These tires are<strong> air-filled<\/strong> and designed for <strong>outdoor forklift use<\/strong>. They provide excellent traction and shock absorption on<strong> rough, uneven terrain<\/strong>. Their air-filled nature helps cushion the ride, reducing the impact on the forklift and load, which is crucial for operations on construction sites or over irregular surfaces.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_93928\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-93928\" style=\"width: 426px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/tow-tractor\/qdd10\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-93928 \" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/PICTURE.jpg\" alt=\"EP's QDD series tow tractors.\" width=\"426\" height=\"341\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-93928\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">EP&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/tow-tractor\/qdd10\/\">QDD10 and QDD10L<\/a> tow tractors with 250mm diameter pneumatic tyres,<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>Cushion Tires<\/h3>\n<p>Made from<strong> solid rubber,<\/strong> these tires are compact and suitable for <strong>indoor or smooth concrete surfaces<\/strong>. Their small turning radius makes them perfect for tight spaces, commonly used in warehouse environments where space efficiency is key.<\/p>\n<h3>Forklift Side Shift<\/h3>\n<p>A versatile attachment that enables the forklift operator to <strong>move the forks and the load laterally<\/strong>, enhancing precision without needing to reposition the entire vehicle. This is especially useful in tight warehouse spaces for aligning pallets or loads with more accuracy.<\/p>\n<h3>Forklift Rotator<\/h3>\n<p>Fork rotators allows for <strong>360-degree rotation<\/strong> of the forks, enabling tasks such as dumping bins or rotating loads. It&#8217;s particularly useful in industries like<strong> recycling<\/strong> or <strong>agriculture<\/strong>, where materials need to be poured or positioned differently.<\/p>\n<h3>Fork Positioner<\/h3>\n<p>Fork positioners are designed to automatically <strong>adjust the distance between the forks,<\/strong> this attachment adds <strong>flexibility<\/strong> and efficiency, especially when handling loads of <strong>varying sizes<\/strong>. It saves time by allowing the operator to adapt fork spacing without manual adjustment.<\/p>\n<h3>Forklift Load Backrest<\/h3>\n<p>A frame attached to the carriage to <strong>prevent the load from shifting backward toward the operator,<\/strong> enhancing safety during lifting operations.<\/p>\n<h3>Forklift Overhead Guard<\/h3>\n<p>A protective metal <strong>roof-like<\/strong> structure over the operator&#8217;s head. It provides safety by protecting the operator from falling objects.<\/p>\n<h3>Forklift Fork Extensions<\/h3>\n<p>Attachments that slide over the existing forks to <strong>extend their length<\/strong> for handling larger and more stable loads.<\/p>\n<h3>Forklift Mast<\/h3>\n<p>The upright assembly on the forklift\u2019s front, responsible for <strong>lifting, lowering, and positioning<\/strong> the load. Available in different configurations, the mast&#8217;s design determines the maximum height to which a load can be lifted and how far forward it can reach.<\/p>\n<h3>Forks<\/h3>\n<p>Also known as <strong>tynes<\/strong>, these are the<strong> horizontal blades on which the load is placed<\/strong>. They are available in various lengths to accommodate different types of loads and pallet sizes.<\/p>\n<h3>Tynes<\/h3>\n<p>Another term for the forks or the arms of the forklift that support and lift the load.<\/p>\n<h3>Counterweight<\/h3>\n<p>Located at the rear of the forklift, this weight helps <strong>balance the loads<\/strong> lifted by the forks. It is essential for maintaining the forklift\u2019s stability and preventing it from tipping over when carrying heavy loads.<\/p>\n<h3>Tilt Cylinders<\/h3>\n<p>Hydraulic cylinders that enable the mast to<strong> tilt forwards and backwards<\/strong>. This feature helps the operator to correctly angle and securely manage the load during lifting and lowering operations.<\/p>\n<h3>Lift Cylinder<\/h3>\n<p>A key component of the forklift&#8217;s lifting mechanism, this hydraulic cylinder <strong>raises and lowers the mast<\/strong>, allowing for the vertical movement of the forks and the load.<\/p>\n<h3>Forklift Carriage<\/h3>\n<p>The framework to which the mast, forks, and other attachments are mounted. It <strong>moves vertically along the mast<\/strong> and is a crucial part of the forklift\u2019s lifting mechanism.<\/p>\n<h3>Hydraulic Fluid Reservoir<\/h3>\n<p>This tank holds the hydraulic fluid that powers the forklift\u2019s<strong> lift and tilt functions.<\/strong> It is a crucial component for the hydraulic system&#8217;s operation.<\/p>\n<h3>Hydraulic Lift Cylinder<\/h3>\n<p>This cylinder powers the lifting mechanism. Using hydraulic fluid, it creates the force needed to <strong>raise and lower the mast and, consequently, the load.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>Tiller Head<\/h3>\n<p>Found on walk-behind forklifts, this is the <strong>steering handle<\/strong> containing controls for the forklift\u2019s movement and the operation of the forks. It allows for precise maneuvering in tight spaces.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Forklift Features\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3>Free Lift (FL)<\/h3>\n<p>This refers to the <strong>height a forklift&#8217;s forks can be raised<\/strong> before the mast itself starts to extend. Free lift is particularly important in<strong> low-clearance<\/strong> environments, allowing for the lifting of the load without increasing the overall height of the mast.<\/p>\n<h3>Hook Fork<\/h3>\n<p>A type of forklift fork that attaches to the carriage using <strong>hooks<\/strong>. These forks are easily adjustable and replaceable, making them versatile for different types of loads and operations.<\/p>\n<h3>Maximum Full Lift Height (MFH)<\/h3>\n<p>This is the <strong>highest point to which the forks of a forklift can be raised<\/strong>. It is a critical factor in determining the suitability of a forklift for various stacking and storage heights.<\/p>\n<h3>Overall Lowered Height (OAL)<\/h3>\n<p>This dimension indicates the <strong>total height of the forklift<\/strong> when the<strong> mast is fully collapsed.<\/strong> It is crucial for ensuring that the forklift can pass safely under overhead obstructions like doorways or beams.<\/p>\n<h3>Rated Load Capacity<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>maximum weight a forklift can safely carry.<\/strong> This capacity can vary based on factors like the load center, lift height, and the forklift&#8217;s configuration.<\/p>\n<h3>Turning Radius<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>minimum space<\/strong> required for a forklift to <strong>make a full turn<\/strong>. A smaller turning radius indicates better maneuverability, particularly important in tight warehouse spaces.<\/p>\n<h3>Fork Length<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>measurement<\/strong> of the forks from the front to the back. The length of the forks should be suitable for the type of loads being handled, ensuring safe and balanced lifting.<\/p>\n<h3>Ground Clearance<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>distance<\/strong> between the <strong>lowest point of the forklift<\/strong> (excluding the wheels) and the <strong>ground<\/strong>. Adequate ground clearance is essential for preventing the underside of the forklift from scraping on uneven surfaces.<\/p>\n<h3>Fork Spread<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>distance<\/strong> between the<strong> outer edges<\/strong> of the forks. Adjustable fork spreads allow for the handling of loads of various sizes and contribute to the forklift&#8217;s versatility.<\/p>\n<h3>Load Center<\/h3>\n<p>This measurement indicates the distance from the <strong>face of the forks<\/strong> to the<strong> load&#8217;s center of gravity<\/strong>. The standard load center distance is critical in determining the forklift&#8217;s<strong> rated load capacity.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>Mast Type (e.g., Duplex, Triplex)<\/h3>\n<p>The mast type refers to the mast&#8217;s construction and <strong>how many stages it has for extension<\/strong>. Duplex (two-stage) and Triplex (three-stage) are common types, with Triplex being suitable for higher lifting heights.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Craving for more? Let us know!<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>As you&#8217;ve journeyed through this comprehensive glossary, we hope you&#8217;ve gained some insights into the world of forklifts.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking to enhance your operations with high-quality forklifts and material handling equipment, or if you have any questions about finding the perfect fit for your needs, don&#8217;t hesitate to reach out to us. Our expert team is always ready to assist you.<\/p>\n<p>???? Explore our range of products and services, and let&#8217;s elevate your material handling experience together. Contact us today and take the first step towards optimizing your operations with EP Equipment!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":""},"tags":[14761],"news-categories":[],"class_list":["post-7491","news","type-news","status-publish","hentry","tag-guides-insights-uk"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/news\/7491","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/news"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/news"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7491"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7491"},{"taxonomy":"news-categories","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/news-categories?post=7491"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}