Forklift extensions, commonly referred to as fork extenders or long lifts, serve to temporarily enhance the length of your forks. Their versatility has led to widespread adoption across numerous industries, including logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, agriculture, food and grocery sectors, owing to their ability to simplify tasks without the need for swapping out forks.
What are forklift extensions and how do they operate?
Forklift extensions are mounted on top of the existing forks and secured securely, either with retaining pins or a steel retaining loop positioned behind the heel (also known as a strap or heel hanger). To gain further insight into fork extensions, please refer to this video:
- Widths 4-6”
- Lengths 45-96”
NOTE: Extensions may not exceed 150% of the length of the existing fork (also known as the support fork).
Custom sizes are available. You can also buy specialty fork extensions with a half-round or triangle top for transporting long rolls of material.
FORKLIFT EXTENSION DO’S AND DON’TS
DON’T:
- Utilize homemade or DIY forklift extensions.
- Pick up loads solely with the fork tips.
- Keep forklift extensions attached all the time; they are not intended for everyday operations.
- Attempt to lift loads near the forklift’s maximum rated capacity.
- Use forklift extensions that exceed 1.5 times the length of the original forks.
- Employ fork extensions that are wider than the original forks by more than half an inch.
DO:
- Train operators thoroughly on the safe operation of forklift extensions.
- Ensure extensions are securely fastened with a retainer (heel hook, pins, etc.) prior to use.
- Handle a forklift with fork extensions as if it were partially loaded, with caution and precision.
- Obtain written approval from the forklift manufacturer for the use of extensions (we can assist in this process).
- Update the forklift data plate (or name plate) accordingly to reflect the use of extensions.
