All-terrain forklifts - the brawny choice for working off-road
Find out everything you need to know about the most important stacker models, their application fields, and their advantages and disadvantages.
Profile: Outdoor applications, off-road use, high stability and resistance, high ground clearance, often available with all-wheel drive, primarily used in the construction industry, agriculture and forestry.
Similar to front loaders, all-terrain forklifts are counterbalance trucks, however they have a structure and tires designed for off-road operation. All-terrain forklifts are also equipped with a lift mast, to which forks or other attachments can be fastened and used to lift and transport loads. All-terrain telescopic forklifts are also available, with a telescopic arm in place of the lift mast that can also be extended vertically.
A high ground clearance is characteristic for all-terrain forklifts, allowing them to easily handle sections of potholes, bumpy areas and scree or gravel. Large tires with thick tread ensure good hold and stability. Rough tread, low pressure tires give the vehicle the grip it needs and help absorb impacts. Because of this, all-terrain forklifts are also known as large tire forklifts. All-terrain forklifts with all-wheel drive can be used in muddy and unpaved construction site areas or hilly areas in agricultural applications. Often, the tires on the drive axle are larger than those on the steering axle. Likewise, all-terrain forklifts are often equipped with twin tires to increase traction an improve load-bearing capacity. Normal forklifts are specifically designed for use on smooth asphalt or warehouse floors, and would quickly be pushed to their limits in these kinds of environments; they could even be dangerous, since they don’t deliver the necessary level of stability.
Often, good off-road capability requires a strong drive. Because of this, all-terrain forklifts are equipped with high-capacity diesel or gas motors. All units are protected from dust, dirt and water by encapsulation, a very important feature for use in rough outdoor areas in order to prevent damage due to moisture or dirt. Driver’s cabins are often tilting, to allow good access to the units and simplify maintenance work. The driver’s seat is spring-loaded, the cabin is sound-insulated, and often equipped with an air conditioning and heating system to provide the driver with a comfortable work area.
Many attachments and accessories are available for all-terrain forklifts. In addition to forks, bale clamps, mandrels, shovels, and many other devices can be attached. All-terrain forklifts with telescopic arms can also be used as cranes.
You can purchased or rent used all-terrain forklifts from Supralift from a variety of manufacturers, such as Manitou, Caterpillar, Ausa or JCB.
View used all-terrain forklifts here:
Rough terrain truck