Concise Forklift Operating Instructions

Starting the Forklift Enter the operator's compartment properly and fasten the seatbelt securely. Shift the gear lever to Neutral (N) and engage the parking brake.

For electric forklifts: Turn on the main power switch. For internal combustion forklifts: Insert the ignition key. Start the engine/power system by turning the key or pressing the start button; release once started. Warm up the engine (2–3 minutes for IC forklifts) and check instrument panel gauges (oil pressure, temperature, battery level) for normal readings.

3. Basic Operation Controls Forward/Reverse: Use the directional lever (F=Forward, R=Reverse); shift only when stopped. Lift/Lower: Push lever up to lift forks; pull down to lower. Tilt Control: Tilt mast backward (toward operator) to secure loads; tilt forward to release loads. Accelerator: Control speed smoothly; avoid sudden acceleration. Brakes: Use service brake (foot pedal) for normal stops; parking brake for stationary securing.

4. Load Handling Procedures

4.1 Picking Up a Load Adjust fork width to match the pallet/load opening; keep forks level. Drive slowly toward the load (≈0.3m away); align forks precisely with pallet openings. Advance slowly until forks are fully inserted under the load. Lift forks slowly until the load is 5–10cm off the ground. Tilt the mast slightly backward to stabilize the load against the mast.

4.2 Transporting the Load Keep the load low to the ground (15–20cm) for maximum stability and visibility. Maintain a slow, controlled speed (max 5km/h in warehouses); avoid sudden turns or braking. Sound horn at intersections, blind spots and when approaching pedestrians. Keep safe distance from workers, obstacles and other equipment.

On inclines: Drive forward uphill, reverse downhill; keep load tilted back; avoid stopping on slopes.

4.3 Unloading the Load Approach the unloading area slowly; stop with load aligned to the target position. Raise the load to the required height; tilt mast forward slowly to level the forks.

Move forward gently to position the load; lower forks steadily until the load rests securely. Reverse slowly to withdraw forks from the pallet; lower forks completely to the ground.

5. Reversing, Parking & Shutdown

5.1 Reversing Check rear area thoroughly; use mirrors or get out to verify if visibility is poor. Sound horn to alert nearby personnel. Reverse slowly, controlling steering smoothly; watch for obstacles and people.

5.2 Parking & Shutdown Park on a flat, firm, unobstructed surface; avoid slopes or unsafe areas. Fully lower forks to the ground; return mast to vertical position. Shift to Neutral; engage parking brake firmly.

For IC forklifts: Idle 2–3 minutes before turning off engine. Turn off power/ignition; remove key; for electric models, disconnect power if needed. Never leave forklift unattended with engine running, forks raised or parking brake disengaged.

6. Critical Safety Rules No Overloading: Strictly follow the rated load capacity plate.

Load Balance: Keep loads centered; avoid uneven or unstable loads. Body Safety:

Keep hands, feet and body inside the cab at all times; no riding on forks or non-designated areas.

Visibility: Maintain clear sightlines; travel with load low; use spotter for large/obstructive loads.

Speed Control: Slow for turns, ramps, corners and congested areas. Seatbelt: Wear at all times during operation.

Report Defects: Immediately report any malfunctions or damage; do not operate faulty equipment.