1. Rough Terrain Forklift Training
2. Rough Terrain Forklift Load Chart
3. Rough Terrain Forklift Work Platforms
4. Rough Terrain Forklift Manufacturers
5. Rough Terrain Forklift Certification

What is a Rough Terrain Forklift?

A rough terrain forklift operates much like a typical sit-down rider. The difference is that these machines are specifically designed to function in challenging outdoor environments.

Focusing on versatile mobility and easy control, rough terrain forklift manufacturers prioritize performance and traction to help each machine fulfill demanding tasks.

Rough terrain forklifts, also known as all-terrain forklifts, can tackle the toughest environments. They are capable of crawling efficiently over rocky and uneven surfaces, making rough terrain forklifts perfect for outdoor projects.

To help them cope with uneven terrain, both large and small rough terrain forklifts are equipped with large pneumatic tires that have deep treads. Rough terrain forklifts are also powered by an internal combustion engine that can run on either gasoline, diesel, or propane.

Office: 6-980 Rue Valois, Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC, J7V 8P2, Canada Toll Free: 877-319-HCFC (4232) Landline: 450-319-HCFC info@hcforkliftcanada.com. Rough terrain forklifts are designed to tackle uneven surfaces. However, some conditions and surfaces can cause rollovers. Always check the grade of the work area and confirm that the forklift can handle it safely. Check Tire Status. In many cases, proper tire inflation and tread are also key. Your crew members should check tire inflation. Pallets to pipes, CASE H Series rough terrain forklifts get it done smoother, easier and faster. With fast lifting speeds, roading speeds of up to 24 mph (38.6 km/h), lifting capacities of up to 8,000 lbs and a slew of unique features that keep loads level and forklift operators comfortable, these high-performance, Tier 4 Final forklifts truly do raise the bar. Rough terrain forklifts are most commonly used at construction sites. Construction equipment like rough terrain forklifts must be able to lift heavy loads, operate outside, and perform demanding work. With these capabilities, rough terrain forklifts are ideal for road work, building maintenance, and other all-weather operations. Rough Terrain Forklifts are among the largest of the forklift family. Rough Terrain Forklifts were designed to be driven over uneven and rocky surfaces, while still carrying heavy loads. Due to it's size, tires and weight capacity, these forklifts are used around various outdoor-based industries.

Be sure your machine has the qualities you need by comparing your options for rough terrain forklifts for sale before you choose.

Rough terrain forklifts have an enclosed spot for a driver, protected by a cage to shield the operator from dirt and debris.

The forks of the machine move up and down via a vertical mast that raises the load straight towards the sky. Small rough terrain forklifts with vertical masts have two large front tires and two small rear tires for maximum stability.

Telescopic forklifts are also considered a type of rough terrain forklift, but they utilize a telescoping boom, which lifts the load both up and away from the base.

Considered a Class 7 forklift by OSHA, rough terrain forklifts can have a load capacity anywhere from 5,000 to 36,000 pounds, depending on the model and rough terrain forklift manufacturer.

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We’ll send you free quotes for a variety of new and used rough terrain forklifts from the best rough terrain forklift manufacturers in the industry.

Many times, when people think of forklifts, they think of large, mobile machines moving pallets around inside of a warehouse. Although this image is often accurate, rough terrain forklifts are equally important and perhaps, even more useful.

So how exactly do rough terrain forklifts differ from indoor ones? Continue reading and we'll walk you through what defines a rough terrain forklift. We'll also go over important safety information as well.

What Is a Rough Terrain Forklift?

The purpose of pretty much any forklift is to carry heavy material from one location to another. Rough terrain forklifts are specifically built to move that material over rocky, hilly, or unstable ground. These machines are meant to be used outdoors instead of inside of a factory or warehouse.

At first glance, you'll notice how the tires on a rough terrain forklift differ from ones on an indoor lift. These tires are rugged and much more durable than ones designed for going over level cement. They also feature exceptional traction for optimal stability.

A rough terrain forklift that can't move on rocky or slippery surfaces isn't going to do you much good. The tires should be knotted and big. This will help them to grip the terrain and keep moving.

In order to make sure that rocks and other sharp materials don't damage or puncture the tires, the tires are reinforced. The larger the tire, the better you are able to prevent the machine from sinking into loose or soft ground. And in order to get improved handling, a lot of rough terrain forklifts will be all wheel or front-wheel drive.

These lifts are built to work in inclement weather conditions including snow, rain, mud, and heavy winds. Many times, rough terrain lifts are constructed out of composite materials or galvanized steel as this helps them to fight moisture. They are also stronger in general than indoor lifts and can often lift heavier weights.

Types of Outdoor Forklifts

There are three main types of builds for outdoor forklifts. Your lifting environment and also what you're going to be loading will determine which type of build you choose.

The variable reach configuration has the most flexibility as well as a telescoping boom. The point of this boom is so that the operator can lift materials and move them over and between different obstructions and objects.

The more common build is the vertical mast configuration. This forklift sports a vertical support in front of the driver.

The third type of forklift is the rotating telehandler forklift. These machines are similar to the variable reach configuration. They are able to lift extremely heavy weights and swivel the lifted materials 360 degrees on a turntable.

Rough Terrain Forklift Training

Some rotating telehandlers come with a second joystick so that you can separately control the rotation. These machines also come with stabilizers so that operators can safely shift loads from one side to the other.

Who Uses Rough Terrain Forklifts?

These forklifts are popular among the military because they are a great way to transport items within camps and military bases. You can also find rough terrain forklifts on a variety of construction projects. That's because they're perfect for raising materials onto an upper floor or roof of a building.

Rough terrain forklifts are also utilized when removing materials from a truck and moving them to a road construction site or oil refinery. Farmers and ranchers also make a lot of use out of outdoor forklifts.

Rough Terrain Forklift Safety Tips

When operating a forklift, drivers need to exercise plenty of caution. Just because these forklifts are meant to withstand rough conditions doesn't mean you shouldn't treat them with care. Improper operation of an outdoor forklift can quickly result in the machine tipping over.

Like with indoor lifts, operators should raise heavy materials when the forklift is on a stable and steady surface. Trained forklift operators know that being able to identify stable ground is absolutely necessary for safely using a rough terrain forklift. Having a good understanding of how to carry a load is also important.

The government agency that regulates how outdoor forklifts are safely operated is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. This agency teaches forklift operators that they should drive at safe speeds at all times. The agency, however, doesn't set specific speed limits.

A forklift driver must be able to determine a safe speed limit on their own. They do this by paying attention to the personnel that is in the location, load stability, surface conditions, and other machines that are operating in the area. Anyone who operates a rough terrain forklift should wear earplugs, safety glasses, a hard hat, and a seatbelt.

Rough terrain forklifts commonly utilize internal combustion engines, so the machines may need to be refueled every so often.

Those who operate these machines must take into consideration the different hazards that are associated with the type of fuel. This includes propane, diesel, and gasoline.

Whenever refueling a rough terrain forklift, the operator should have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Rough Terrain Forklift Load Chart

Should You Get an Outdoor Forklift for Your Next Project?

If you're planning on moving a lot of heavy materials over surfaces that are uneven, unstable, or bumpy, it would be wise to consider purchasing or renting a rough terrain forklift. Be sure to pick the specific build that works best for your project and make sure that your operator is well-informed on the safety guidelines.

Rough Terrain Forklift Work Platforms

Rough Terrain Forklift Manufacturers

Interesting in getting a forklift for your next construction project? Contact us today to learn more about buying and renting a rough terrain forklift!

Rough Terrain Forklift Certification