10 Biggest Forklifts: If you’re interested in how big and powerful forklifts may grow, consider the Kalmar DCG850, which presently holds the Guinness World Record for forklift lifting capacity at approximately 190,000 pounds. When you think “big,” you’re probably thinking of the forklift’s weight, and the higher the lift capacity — the greatest weight a forklift can lift while being stable — the heavier the forklift weighs.
From a practical aspect, you may want a high-capacity forklift for a heavy-duty job. In that scenario, you need take into account the lift height and turning radius, as well as the weight and lift capacity.
With those parameters in mind, this essay will look at the world’s largest forklifts. Our top ten list is confined to pneumatic forklifts; while some marina forklifts are rather large, they are highly specialized devices that are not intended for public usage.
If you’re searching for a large forklift, look no further—we’ve compiled a list of the top ten largest forklifts in the globe.
The Biggest Forklifts and Their Specs
We highlight the brands and models that represent the industry’s largest forklifts, ranking them from largest to smallest. Although companies such as Kalmar and Hoist have many high-capacity versions to examine, we’re just presenting one of them.
1. Kalmar DCG850-12LB
The Kalmar DCG850-12LB is the first—and largest—on our list. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 187,393 pounds.
- Weight: 214,951 pounds.
- Lifting height: 13’1″.
- Engine: Volvo Dana T30 Stage V
When you look at the largest forklift, the Kalmar DCG850-12LB, you’ll see a masterpiece of forklift engineering that blends strong design with excellent capabilities. This pneumatic forklift, which can lift 187,393 pounds, is the record holder for heavy-duty material handling.
This model has innovative features such a roomy cabin for operator comfort and cutting-edge technology for accurate control. And the DCG850-12LB provides unsurpassed efficiency for moving huge loads.
Kalmar, a renowned name in freight handling systems, has been manufacturing it since the 1940s. The DCG850-12LB demonstrates Kalmar’s dedication to innovation and dependability, making it an excellent choice for tough work in shipping yards, warehouses, and industrial sites where lifting huge loads is a common issue.
2. Konecranes SMV 65-1200 C
Second on our list is the Konecranes SMV 65-1200 C. Although its lift capacity of 143,300 pounds is not as high as Kalmar’s, this machine nevertheless has amazing capability. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 143,300 pounds.
- Weight: 197,534 pounds.
- Lifting height: 13’1″.
- Engine: Volvo.
- Outside turning radius measures 13’8″.
The Konecranes SMV 65-1200 C forklift delivers accuracy and power in the form of heavy-duty material handling. Designed to handle the most demanding industrial jobs with ease, it nonetheless has high-end features like powerful load-sensing hydraulics and a configurable touchscreen. This forklift prioritizes comfort and safety, with a roomy operator cabin for maximum visibility and a strong chassis for stability in a wide range of working circumstances.
It is made by Konecranes, a worldwide lifting solutions company that has been in the forefront of crane and material handling equipment innovation for more than a century. The SMV 65-1200 C demonstrates Konecranes’ dedication to excellence and cutting-edge technology. It’s ideal for use in ports, shipping yards, and large industrial industries where accuracy, dependability, and exceptional lifting capability are critical.
3. Versalift 100/140
The Versalift 100/140 ranks third on our list. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 140,000 pounds.
- Weight: 120,000 pounds.
- 4.3L GM engine.
The Versalift 100/140 forklift combines a sturdy construction with impressive lifting capabilities. With a lift capability of 140,000 pounds, this equipment has precise control systems and a strengthened chassis for stability in harsh situations.
It also has a lift capacity calculator, a load-sensing pump, an extended counterweight, and machine override options in case the pedals or levers fail. You may also add a boom to increase lifting and hauling capabilities.
Versalift has a long history of providing customized lifting solutions. The 100/140 model embodies their dedication to innovation and is an important tool in a variety of applications, including building sites and industrial facilities.
4. MKF CS 600/1000 D
The MKF CS 600/1000 D ranks fourth, having a lift capability of 132,277 pounds.
For heavy-duty material handling, the MKF CS 600/1000 D forklift is an excellent choice because to its strong engineering and lifting strength. This forklift has a sturdy chassis intended for stability in a variety of operational settings and has cutting-edge technologies like as state-of-the-art load management systems and wireless operation via a remote.
MKF, the company behind this behemoth, is well-known for its expertise and creativity in providing lifting solutions. The CS 600/1000 D model demonstrates their dedication to providing top-tier performance for sectors demanding significant lifting capabilities.
5. Toyota THD12500-48
Next up is the Toyota THD12500-48. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 125,000 pounds.
- Weight: 159,400 pounds.
- Lift height: 23’1″.
- Engine: Cummins.
- The outside turning radius is 25’4″.
Toyota is well-known for its dependability and efficiency in both automotive and industrial equipment, and the big forklift does not disappoint.
The THD12500-48 is designed for heavy-duty material handling with a lifting capability of 125,000 pounds. It is supported by innovative features such as a responsive control system and a strengthened frame for stability in demanding conditions, as well as safety measures such as the operator presence sensing system (OPSS), which detects the operator while driving.
6. Hoist P1250
The next model is the Hoist P1250. Here are the specifications:
Lift capacity: 125,000 pounds.
Engine: Cummins 6.7L
The Hoist P1250 is designed to perform well in tough industrial situations. It has modern components such as precise hydraulics and a robust chassis for maximum stability. With durability and performance in mind, its cushion tires and built-in engine protection system keep your forklift operating smoothly, while a load-sensing hydraulic system boosts productivity and fuel economy.
Hoist provides decades of experience to its material handling systems, and the P1250 is no exception. Its lift capability of 125,000 pounds makes it strong enough to meet the diversified demands of contemporary warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and construction sites.
7. HangCha CPCD480-W61
The HangCha CPCD480-W61 is next on our list. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 105,822 pounds.
- Weight: 137,789 pounds.
- Engine: Cummins QSM11-CT3.
With a lift capability of 105,822 pounds, this forklift is a heavyweight performer, demonstrating HangCha’s reputation for producing efficient material handling machinery.
Precision-engineered features such as superior hydraulics and a strong frame offer maximum performance and stability in a variety of operating settings, making the CPCD480-W61 an excellent choice for a wide range of demanding industrial jobs.
8. Hyster H1050XDS48
The Hyster H1050XDS48 is ranked ninth in our ranking. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 105,000 pounds.
- Weight: 134,400 pounds.
- Lift height: 14’4″.
- Engine: Cummins.
- Outside turning radius measures 23’3″.
The Hyster H1050XDS48 forklift is a workhorse that can be used in a variety of industries, including heavy manufacturing and logistics. With a lifting capability of 105,000 pounds, this heavyweight champion is capable of handling large loads with accuracy and ease. Notable features include an innovative hydraulics system, an ergonomic chassis for optimal balance, cooled exhaust recirculation, and automated throttle-up for economical operation.
Hyster, a well-known company with a long history, earns its name for producing efficient, technologically sophisticated material handling equipment with the H1050XDS48 model.
9. Svetruck 52120-60
The Svetruck 52120-60 is next on our list. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 104,000 pounds.
- Weight: 132,498 pounds.
- Lifting height: 13’1″.
- Engine: Cummins.
- Outside turning radius is 27’6″.
The Svetruck 52120-60, with modern features such as a precise control system and a sturdy structure, excels in a wide range of industrial applications, from lumber yards to shipping ports.
Svetruck is a global leader in heavy-duty forklifts, and this product is no different. With an emphasis on quality and cutting-edge technology, Svetruck machines like the 52120-60 are built to fulfill the stringent requirements of sectors that require substantial lifting capabilities and dependability. Its wet disc brakes enable for rapid stops in difficult situations while preventing the brakes from overheating.
10. Sany SCP460C
Finally, we have the Sany SCP460C, the smallest of the giants. Here are the specifications:
- Lift capacity: 101,413 pounds.
- Weight: 127,648 pounds.
- Lifting height: 13’1″.
- Engine: Volvo.
Despite being the “smallest” on our list, the Sany SCP460C is a formidable contender in the material handling area. This forklift, with a lift capability of 101,413 pounds, is designed specifically for demanding tasks in industrial environments such as construction and manufacturing.
The SCP460C delivers accurate and dependable performance, thanks to advanced features such as a sophisticated control system, automatic stabilizers to keep forklift operators safe, and a sturdy chassis, all of which align with Sany’s dedication to solving the dynamic requirements of industrial material handling.
High-Capacity Forklift Applications
General material handling is a broad category that covers a wide range of jobs and applications. enormous-capacity forklifts perform best at the extreme end of the range, in applications requiring enormous load capacities, significant accuracy and stability, and plenty of power.
Here is a summary of some popular uses for high-capacity forklifts:
- Wind power handling: High-capacity forklifts can handle massive wind turbine components such as blades, towers, and nacelles during wind farm building and maintenance.
- Steel and concrete: These forklifts can transport large composite materials such as steel coils, beams, and concrete blocks, which are often found at steel mills, building sites, and industrial facilities.
- Industrial and manufacturing: In large-scale production, high-capacity forklifts may transport heavy components, machinery, or raw materials at various stages of the process.
- Ports and shipping yards: High-capacity forklifts load and unload heavy cargo, such as huge shipping containers and bulk items, as ships arrive and leave.
- Construction sites: High-capacity forklifts are used to handle heavy building materials and components throughout the construction process, from site preparation to project completion.
- Warehousing and logistics: These forklifts transfer large pallets, machinery, and raw products within and between warehouses, frequently in high-bay storage spaces, assisting with storage, retrieval, and distribution activities.
- Mining and quarry operations: Heavy equipment and significant amounts of mined materials are transported to and from work sites using high-capacity forklifts.
What to Consider When Choosing the Right Forklift
Capacity is typically the deciding factor when choosing a class V forklift over a normal type. If you operate in heavy-duty applications, you should choose a machine with a large capacity.
However, not all heavy duty forklifts are the same. Make sure the one you pick is capable of doing the tasks you want. When comparing different industrial trucks, consider the following factors:
- Lift capacity is the highest weight a forklift can carry while remaining stable. This is critical because a forklift cannot safely lift more than its rated lift capacity. If you know you’ll be lifting hefty loads, pick a model that fits the requirements.
- Weight: Depending on the surface you’re working on, the weight of your machine may be a consideration. It determines whether your forklift meets roadworthy standards or if weight restrictions prevent its use on a specific site. Furthermore, heavier weights often equate to higher lift capacity.
- Lift Height refers to how high your forklift can raise or stack goods, which is vital for jobs that involve lifting such as storing, removing, or placing objects.
- Outside turning radius: This factor helps evaluate a forklift’s mobility since it defines how wide its turns are. If you’re working in a large, open place, it’s less of an issue, but in tiny and tight settings, you’ll want to ensure the equipment can perform securely.
Each of these variables influences what your machine can perform. Matching lift capacity to typical loads, ensuring that the forklift’s weight is counterbalanced to your loads for stability, selecting the appropriate lift height for your storage needs, and ensuring that the turning radius fits in your work area all contribute to the forklift’s safety, efficiency, and effectiveness in your operational environment.
