CBFLTs, as shown in Figure 12 can vary in size from small 1 tonne capacity trucks to larger machines capable of lifting heavy loads in excess of 30 tonnes. They are also capable of high-stacking. CBFLTs are the most common form of MHE that is used in a warehouse. CBFLTs have their forks mounted at the front end so they have to be driven right up to the load to be carried. The forks at the front of the truck can be replaced with a wide variety of specialised attachments which allows the movement of abnormal loads such as reels of electrical cable, steel coils, drums of oils or piping.
Within a warehouse, they require wide aisles and areas for turning. Battery powered trucks require a dedicated charging area for frequent charging. CBFLTs require specific training for operators and only personnel who are appropriately trained should be permitted to operate them.
Finally, they also require regular maintenance and checks by operators to ensure they are in full working order.
Figure 5: Counterbalance Forklift Truck