Capacity
Capacity
The carrying capacity of a forklift truck shows the weight of a load that this truck can
carry safely under the set Safety Rules and Regulations. It is important to know the
difference between the rated capacity and the actual capacity for each truck.
• Rated Capacity
- is the capacity of the lift truck with standard lifting heights and with standard
sized loads.
• Actual Capacity
- is determined by tilting platform tests and shows the actual capacity based upon
lifting heights of that specific trucks - as well as the load size this truck is supposed
to carry. Attachments used with the lift truck will also alter the actual capacity.
The actual capacity of a specific truck must be listed by the truck manufacturer on a
capacity plate. The plate has to be permanently attached in the drivers compartment so
that the driver of the forklift truck can see and reference it at all times. The driver
should be informed that the rated capacities for this truck are given for travel on level
ground, driving with lowered loads only and lifting while the truck is not moving.
Attachments and their reduced capacity have to be listed separately.