Forklift Transport Services

GET A QUOTE

thank you for
choosing us!

Checkout our socials

Whether youโ€™re moving pallets of product across your warehouse or loading heavy machinery onto a truck, getting the job done requires the right forklift.

Atlantic Project Cargo is a leading provider of professional forklift transport services, dedicated to helping businesses of all sizes streamline their operations and aid with the logistics of heavy cargo.

WHAT IS A FORKLIFT?

Often referred to as a lift truck, jitney, hi-lo, fork truck, a forklift is a powerful industrial vehicle. It issued primarily for materials handling within warehouses, factories, and other work sites. Equipped with a โ€œforkedโ€ device in front, it can lift and transport heavy loads over short distances. Forklifts operate on electric power or internal combustion engines and come in various sizes and capacities tailored to the industryโ€™s specific needs. Their mechanical proficiency and versatility make forklifts an essential piece of machinery in the construction, manufacturing, and logistics sectors.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FORKLIFTS?โ€‹

  • Counterbalance. These are the most common type, and theyโ€™re typically used for general material handling tasks. They have a weight attached to the rear to counterbalance the load being lifted, hence the name;
  • Reach Trucks. Designed for narrow aisles and high-density storage applications. They have a telescoping mast that allows them to reach and place loads in tight spaces;
  • Stackers or Pallet Jacks. Are the simplest type. Theyโ€™re manually operated and used to move pallets short distances;
  • Order Pickers. Are similar to reach forklifts, but they have a platform for the operator to stand on;
  • Side Loaders. Their forks are mounted on the side of the carriage;ย 
  • Telehandlers or Telescopic Handlers. They have a telescoping boom that can be extended and rotated;
  • Industrial Forklifts. These can handle heavier loads;
  • Rough Terrain Forklifts. Designed for use on uneven or unpaved surfaces. They have large tires and high ground clearance;
  • Container Handlers. A specialized type of forklift designed for the efficient handling of shipping containers;
  • Tractor(farm) forklifts. Standard agricultural tractors with a specialized attachment on the front;
  • Narrow Aisle Trucks (NATs) or Very Narrow Aisle Trucks (VNAs).ย  Designed to maximize storage space in warehouses by operating in narrow aisles;
  • Articulated (swing mast) forklifts. Designed for extremely narrow warehouse aisles, even narrower than those suitable for VNAs.ย 

MOVING FORKLIFT ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Hereโ€™s what you need to know.

Regulations and Restrictions

  • Size and weight
    Every state has different limits for vehicle dimensions and gross weight on their roads. So the transportation process might involve permits, special escorts, or even dismantling part of the forklift;
  • Height
    Be mindful of overhead clearances on bridges and tunnels;
  • Additional Permits
    For over-dimensional load permits or oversized/overweight permits.

Transport Options

  • Flatbed Trailer
    The most common option for transporting;
  • Tow Truck
    For smaller machines, towing can be an option;
  • Railway
    Ideal for long distances and heavy forklifts;

Research companies, compare costs, and consider partnering with experienced shipping companies like Atlantic Project Cargo.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING OF FORKLIFT

Moving forklifts across international borders can be a difficult thing. Letโ€™s have a look at methods of shipping and essential documents.ย 

Methods of Transportation

  • Ocean
    Done by using container shipping or Ro-Ro vessels. It is a cost-effective way to ship for long distances;
  • Air
    A good option for smaller forklifts. More expensive than ocean freight;
  • Land
    For shorter distances or neighboring countries. Options include:
  • Trucks. Versatile, but requires multiple trucks for oversized cargo;
  • Railroad. Great for bulk shipments, but has a limited flexibility and longer transit times.

Necessary Documents

  • Commercial Invoice
    Detailed document outlining the shipment details such as description, value, and origin/destination;
  • Packing List
    Specifies the number of packages, weight, and dimensions of each package;
  • Bill of Lading
    Contract between shipper and carrier;
  • Country-specific Documentation
    Each country has additional requirements like import/export licenses, specific custom forms and others.ย 

FACTORS AFFECTING THE COST OF FORKLIFT SHIPPING

Letโ€™s have a look at the key factors affecting forklift shipping costs.ย 

Forklift Characteristics

  • Size and weight
    The bigger and heavier, the higher the cost;
  • Dismantling
    If your forklift needs dismantling or crating, expect additional costs.ย 

Transportation Method

  • Ocean
    Container and Ro-Ro options vary in cost;
  • Air
    Fast, but expensive;
  • Land
    Cost-effective for short distances, but fuel and tools can add up.ย 

  • Distance
    Longer journeys increase the cost;
  • Route complexity
    If the route involves multiple transfers or countries with specific regulations, expect additional fees for documentation, and customs clearance.

  • Packing and Crating
    Secure packing adds costs for material and labor;
  • Insurance
    Comprehensive coverage comes at a price;
  • Customs clearance
    Hiring a customs broker simplifies the process but adds service fees.ย 

ADVANTAGES OF FORKLIFT SHIPPINGโ€‹ WITH ATLANTIC PROJECT CARGO

Move forklifts with confidence. We navigate the complexities of heavy and oversized cargo with our global network, custom solutions, and regulatory expertise. Trust us for efficient, cost-effective and on-time deliveries.