

Depending on the circumstances, rated capacity and net capacity may differ.

Net capacity accounts for de-rated capacity, mast type, attachments, forklift weight and any modifications. Net capacity, or payload capacity, is the actual weight a forklift can carry. De-rated capacity is how much load capacity drops when old devices, unstable terrain or other factors hamper performance.

Generally, rated capacity encompasses a recommended weight range, not a hard limit. Rated capacity refers to the maximum weight listed on a forklift’s data plate. When looking at the total mass a forklift can carry, you want to consider its rated capacity and net capacity. How Much Can a Forklift Lift?ĭepending on the model, forklifts can haul between 3,000 and 158,000 pounds. Taking these details into account will maximize safety on a work site and ensure your device has the longest possible service life. Operators have to consider factors like lift height, attachment weight and their machine’s condition. In fact, carrying too heavy a load is one of the leading causes of forklift accidents.Ĭalculating forklift load capacity takes time and expertise. According to a 2018 report by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), up to 62,000 workers suffer forklift-related injuries a year. While most forklifts come with a data plate listing their estimated capacity, this figure isn’t always accurate. Forklift capacity is the total weight a machine can safely hold at a given time.
