{"id":15136,"date":"2026-05-23T02:41:12","date_gmt":"2026-05-23T06:41:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/?p=15136"},"modified":"2026-05-25T12:52:03","modified_gmt":"2026-05-25T16:52:03","slug":"how-to-determine-your-forklifts-lifting-capacity","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/how-to-determine-your-forklifts-lifting-capacity\/","title":{"rendered":"How to determine the lifting capacity of your forklift?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"15136\" class=\"elementor elementor-15136 elementor-15122\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-39a5bb77 e-flex e-con-boxed parallax_section_no qode_elementor_container_no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"39a5bb77\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2cea47ea elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2cea47ea\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Using a forklift requires perfect knowledge of the machine&#8217;s various <strong>characteristics<\/strong>. Its <strong>capacity<\/strong> is one of the most important pieces of information. How do you decipher and wisely use this data? Your forklift&#8217;s capacity is determined by several factors, such as the <strong>maximum weight<\/strong> it can lift and the <strong>height<\/strong> at which it can do so safely. Several concepts are linked to a forklift&#8217;s capacity, such as <strong>rated capacity<\/strong>, <strong>residual capacity<\/strong>, and the <strong>center of gravity<\/strong>. Discover the different characteristics of your forklift with Vall\u00e9e.<\/p><p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19730\" src=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma1png.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"499\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma1png.webp 749w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma1png-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma1png-700x466.webp 700w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma1png-600x400.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/><\/p><h2><strong>Each forklift has its own lifting capacity<\/strong><\/h2><p>Lifting capacity is an important criterion when choosing your <a href=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/forklift-parts\/\">forklift<\/a>. Depending on its design and use, each model offers its own maximum load capacity:<\/p><ul><li>The rough-terrain forklift is a machine designed to <strong>handle difficult outdoor<\/strong> <strong>environments<\/strong> such as construction sites, mines, and industrial yards. Equipped with <strong>all-wheel drive<\/strong>, it ensures excellent stability on uneven, slippery, or muddy surfaces. Its agility allows it to maneuver easily in tight spaces while guaranteeing <a href=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/what-solutions-to-reduce-forklift-accident-risks\/\">safety<\/a> and efficiency. Its lifting capacity varies by model, generally ranging <strong>from 3,000 to 60,000 pounds<\/strong>, with industrial models, such as those from the Vall\u00e9e brand, capable of lifting up to 55,000 pounds.<\/li><li>The reach truck: it lifts loads to great heights in confined spaces. Its lifting capacity generally <strong>decreases<\/strong> as the height <strong>increases<\/strong>.<\/li><li>The reach truck: it lifts loads to great heights in confined spaces. Its lifting capacity generally <strong>decreases<\/strong> as the height <strong>increases<\/strong>.<\/li><li>The electric forklift is silent and non-polluting, making it better suited for indoor environments. Its lifting capacity is often <strong>moderate<\/strong>, but some models can <strong>handle significant loads<\/strong>. At Vall\u00e9e, an electric rough-terrain model will launch in 2026. The customer will be able to choose the battery that best suits their usage. Discover your electric model, the <a href=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/chariots-elevateurs\/4da25-xrt-25-000-lb-epower\/\">\u00a0Vall\u00e9e 4DA 25-XRT<\/a>. This model is designed for zero emissions.<\/li><li>The gas or diesel forklift: <strong>powerful<\/strong> and <strong>robust<\/strong>, this category of vehicle offers the highest lifting capacity and is ideal for <strong>very heavy loads<\/strong> outdoors.<\/li><li>Other compact models: the three-wheel forklift and the stacker are intended for <strong>lighter loads<\/strong> and <strong>medium lift heights<\/strong>.<\/li><li>Various technical factors, such as lift height, options and accessories installed on the mast, mast type, or weight distribution, directly influence the actual load capacity.<\/li><\/ul><h2><strong>Identifying lifting capacities using regulatory plates<\/strong><\/h2><p>Two plates are always present on a forklift and provide key information about its lifting capacities:<\/p><ul><li>The <strong>load plate<\/strong> indicates the residual capacity, i.e., the load the forklift can actually handle based on its configuration.<\/li><li>The <strong>nameplate<\/strong> mentions the rated capacity, defined as the maximum load the forklift can lift without attachments and at a standard height of 3.30 meters.<\/li><\/ul><p>This plate may also include other information, such as that regarding the chassis.<\/p><h3><strong>What is the rated capacity of a forklift?<\/strong><\/h3><p>The rated capacity of a forklift is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.quebec.ca\/nouvelles\/actualites\/details\/utiliser-un-chariot-elevateur-de-facon-securitaire\">safety characteristics you absolutely must know<\/a> about your forklift. Often expressed in pounds and sometimes in kilograms, it represents <strong>the maximum load the vehicle can safely lift when its mast is vertical at a given height and over a standardized distance<\/strong>.<\/p><p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19731\" src=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma2gif.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"460\" height=\"293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma2gif.webp 460w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma2gif-300x191.webp 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 460px) 100vw, 460px\" \/><\/p><p>Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ccohs.ca\/oshanswers\/safety_haz\/forklift\/load.html\">https:\/\/www.cchst.ca\/oshanswers\/safety_haz\/forklift\/load.html<\/a><\/p><p>This distance refers to the horizontal distance between the vertical face of the forks and the load&#8217;s center of gravity. The rated capacity is determined by a standardized center-of-gravity that varies with the forklift&#8217;s rated capacity.<\/p><p>Knowing your forklift&#8217;s rated capacity is essential because the risk of overturning increases if it is exceeded. Choosing your forklift with a rated capacity adapted to the loads to be handled also helps optimize handling operations and minimize risks.<\/p><h3><strong>What to know about actual capacity?<\/strong><\/h3><p>A forklift&#8217;s actual capacity <strong>represents the maximum weight the lifting vehicle can safely lift in a given situation<\/strong>. The actual capacity may be lower than its rated capacity indicated on the nameplate. Unlike rated capacity, which is a fixed value, actual capacity varies based on several factors:<\/p><ul><li>Lift height has a direct impact first. <strong>The higher the load is lifted, the more the actual capacity decreases<\/strong>. For example, a forklift that can lift 10,000 pounds at a low height might only lift 6,000 pounds at maximum height;<\/li><li>Weight distribution also plays a role. If the load is not well balanced or its center of gravity is far from the forks, the actual capacity may decrease because the forklift becomes less stable;<\/li><li><strong>The type of attachment used also influences<\/strong> actual capacity. Additional equipment, such as clamps or fork extensions, thereby reducing the load it can lift;<\/li><li><strong>Environmental conditions<\/strong>, such as uneven ground or slopes, can also reduce the forklift&#8217;s actual capacity by compromising its stability.<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Note:<\/strong> <strong>There is no simple formula to calculate actual lifting capacity.<\/strong> Each situation is specific and requires a personalized assessment.<\/p><h3><strong>The center of gravity<\/strong><\/h3><p>The center of gravity plays a key role in a forklift&#8217;s load capacity. It <strong>represents the balance point of the assembly consisting of the forklift and its load<\/strong>. If this center of gravity is not correctly aligned with the forklift&#8217;s support surface, the risk of overturning, whether lateral or frontal, increases significantly.<\/p><p><strong>Each forklift is equipped with a load capacity diagram<\/strong>, also called a center of gravity diagram, which indicates the lifting capacity based on the center of gravity&#8217;s height and position. Proper reading and understanding of this diagram are essential for safe forklift operation.<\/p><p>The center of gravity varies depending on the load being carried. The heavier the load and the farther it is from the mast, the more the center of gravity moves toward the front of the forklift, thus reducing its stability. Correct and well-centered positioning of the load, as well as <strong>a good interpretation of the capacity diagram<\/strong>, are essential to guarantee safe use of the forklift. Indeed, <strong>the greater the distance between the load and the mast, the lower the load capacity<\/strong>.<\/p><p><strong>HOW DO ATTACHMENTS INFLUENCE THE FORKLIFT&#8217;S RESIDUAL CAPACITY?<\/strong><\/p><p>A forklift&#8217;s residual capacity <strong>indicates the maximum load the vehicle can support at a given lift height<\/strong>, accounting for all factors that affect its stability, particularly installed attachments. This data also corresponds to the actual load capacity in a specific situation, which may be lower than the rated capacity indicated on the load plate.<\/p><p>Installing additional attachments, such as rotators, clamps, or side shifters, modifies the forklift&#8217;s mass distribution. This practice directly influences residual capacity. Each attachment indeed has its own rated capacity and center of gravity. These parameters must be taken into account when calculating the residual capacity of the equipped forklift. For example, <strong>a fork extension, although useful for handling longer loads, increases the distance between the load&#8217;s center of gravity and the forklift&#8217;s mast<\/strong>. Using this attachment <strong>reduces the forklift&#8217;s residual capacity<\/strong>.<\/p><p><strong>READING THE LOAD PLATE<\/strong><\/p><p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19732\" src=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma3png.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"750\" height=\"564\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma3png.webp 750w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma3png-300x226.webp 300w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma3png-700x526.webp 700w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma3png-600x451.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Note:<\/strong> The Maximum Hydraulic Pressure (Press.Hydr.Max) indicates the maximum recommended pressure to avoid straining the equipment (even if it could lift more) and to prevent breakage or a potentially dangerous situation.<\/p><p>The <strong>load plate<\/strong> is generally fixed in a visible location from the driver&#8217;s seat, such as the mast upright or the control console. It can be made of metal or a resistant material. This plate displays clear information, often engraved or printed in highly readable characters. It provides various information about the forklift:<\/p><ul><li>The name of the forklift manufacturer.<\/li><li>The forklift model number. This information is useful for ordering spare parts or searching for model-specific information.<\/li><li>The serial number, which identifies the forklift and is used for tracking and maintenance.<\/li><li>The <strong>forklift&#8217;s weight<\/strong> specifies the vehicle&#8217;s empty weight.<\/li><li>The <strong>rated capacity, or maximum load, that the forklift can lift at a specified height and center-of-gravity distance<\/strong>.<\/li><li>The <strong>maximum lift height<\/strong> to which the forklift can raise a load.<\/li><li>The center of gravity distance, which may be expressed in inches or millimeters, it corresponds to the distance between the load&#8217;s center of gravity and the heel of the forks.<\/li><\/ul><p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19737 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma4-e1727333592391png.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"557\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma4-e1727333592391png.webp 557w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma4-e1727333592391png-300x228.webp 300w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/pIma4-e1727333592391png-500x380.webp 500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 557px) 100vw, 557px\" \/><\/p><p>Various diagrams, curves, or illustrations may also be visible near or on the load plate. They are essential for determining the forklift&#8217;s actual capacity in different situations.<\/p><h2><strong>Load center, lift height, and attachments: 3 essential factors for lifting capacity<\/strong><\/h2><p>Even when an operator knows the values inscribed on his forklift&#8217;s load plate, the difficulty lies in applying this data in each work situation. The load center, lift height, and attachments are three interdependent parameters that require active reading before each operation.<\/p><h3><strong>Assess the load center before lifting<\/strong><\/h3><p>The load center is the <strong>horizontal distance<\/strong> <strong>from the face of the forks to the load&#8217;s center of gravity<\/strong>. The greater this distance, the lower the forklift&#8217;s lifting capacity, as the overall balance is directly affected. A load center exceeding the forklift&#8217;s reference value may be enough to make an operation dangerous, even if the load&#8217;s weight seems acceptable.<\/p><p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19711\" src=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2048\" height=\"2048\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-570x570.jpg 570w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-500x500.jpg 500w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-1000x1000.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-700x700.jpg 700w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-650x650.jpg 650w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-1300x1300.jpg 1300w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020704917-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/p><p>Before starting a lifting operation, the operator must ensure the load is correctly positioned on the forks. In practice, this involves checking that the load&#8217;s center of gravity does not exceed the reference distance indicated on the plate. If the load is bulky, irregular, or poorly conditioned, it must be repositioned before lifting, even if that means interrupting the operation. A poorly centered load may seem stable on the ground but become dangerous as soon as the forks rise.<\/p><h3><strong>Anticipate capacity loss at height<\/strong><\/h3><p>Lift height directly affects available load capacity: the higher the forks go, the lower the permissible capacity. This phenomenon is explained by the upward movement of the forklift-load assembly&#8217;s center of gravity, which reduces the machine&#8217;s stability. Manufacturers incorporate this reality into the capacity diagram provided with each forklift, which precisely indicates the maximum authorized load at each height level.<\/p><p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19712 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/vallee.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/unnamed-2026-05-25T020836298-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/p><p>Lift height is a parameter that the operator must integrate when planning the task, not during the operation. Concretely, if a load must be deposited at height, the forklift&#8217;s capacity diagram must be consulted to verify that the authorized weight at that specific height is compatible with the load to be handled. Making this decision upstream prevents a load from being immobilized at height in an unstable configuration, which is one of the riskiest scenarios during handling.<\/p><h3><strong>Recalculate the available capacity as soon as an attachment is installed<\/strong><\/h3><p>Adding an attachment to a forklift systematically reduces its residual capacity. Each additional piece of equipment has its own weight and its own center of gravity, which modifies the forklift&#8217;s overall balance. These two combined parameters reduce the payload that the forklift can still safely lift once the attachment is in place.<\/p><p>Installing an attachment should never be treated as a minor adjustment. Each added attachment modifies the total weight considered in the residual capacity and can shift the load center. Good practice consists of identifying the attachment&#8217;s rated capacity, subtracting its own weight from the forklift&#8217;s available capacity, and then verifying that the remaining payload is sufficient for the intended operation. This calculation must be redone for each change to the attachment, even if the operator is accustomed to the equipment.<\/p><p><strong>HOW CAN EXTERNAL FACTORS ALTER YOUR FORKLIFT&#8217;S LOAD CAPACITY?<\/strong><\/p><p>In addition to factors intrinsic to the forklift and its load, several external factors can reduce its load capacity and compromise its stability. Using the vehicle on <strong>uneven or unstable ground<\/strong> can thus affect its load capacity. On a sloped or slippery path, the forklift&#8217;s stability is reduced, directly diminishing its effective load capacity. On unstable surfaces like gravel or sand, the risk of overturning is increased, requiring lifting a lighter load to avoid accidents.<\/p><p>It is very important to check that the forks are adequate for the forklift&#8217;s lifting capacity:<\/p><ul><li>If the fork supports less than the forklift, the lifting capacity to be respected for safety reasons is the fork&#8217;s capacity.<\/li><li>If the forklift supports less lifting than the fork used, the lifting capacity to be respected will be that of the forklift.<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Weather conditions<\/strong> like rain, snow, or ice can also make the ground slippery and reduce the forklift&#8217;s stability. Such operating conditions directly impact its load capacity. In strong winds, for example, a load lifted to a significant height can become unstable, especially if it is bulky, thereby reducing the safe load the forklift can lift. In case of an unbalanced load with an off-center center of gravity, the forklift&#8217;s balance can also be compromised. Such a situation reduces lifting capacity and increases the risk of overturning.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Using a forklift requires perfect knowledge of the machine&#8217;s various characteristics. Its capacity is one of the most important pieces of information. How do you decipher and wisely use this data? Your forklift&#8217;s capacity is determined by several factors, such as the maximum weight it&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":19733,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_mbp_gutenberg_autopost":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15136","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15136","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15136"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15136\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19747,"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15136\/revisions\/19747"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19733"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15136"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=15136"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vallee.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=15136"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}