Counterbalance Forklift training in Derby

About the counterbalance forklift

A counterbalance forklift is the truck most people picture when they hear the word "forklift". The mast and forks sit at the very front of the machine and a dense counterweight over the rear axle stops it tipping forward when the forks are loaded. Because there are no outriggers or reach mechanism, the operator can drive straight up to racking, a lorry bed or a stack of pallets and lift.

Counterbalance trucks are made in three-wheel and four-wheel layouts. Three-wheel electrics turn in a tight circle and suit narrower aisles indoors; four-wheel diesel and LPG trucks give more stability and traction for yard work and loading in all weathers. Masts come as duplex or triplex (two or three stage), with free-lift on some models so the forks rise before the mast extends — handy inside containers and under low door heights.

Operators learn to read the capacity plate, keep loads back against the heel of the forks, travel with the forks low and tilted back, and drive in reverse when a load blocks the forward view. Mast tilt, side-shift and fork positioners are covered where fitted.

What the course covers

• Pre-use inspection and defect reporting
• Stability triangle, load centres and the capacity plate
• Manoeuvring in confined spaces, forward and reverse
• Stacking and de-stacking at height, including racking and block stacking
• Loading and unloading vehicles, ramps and docks
• Fuelling or battery charging, parking and shutdown

On-site, on your truck

We bring an accredited instructor to your premises in Derby or anywhere in Derbyshire. You provide the truck and a safe working area; we provide everything else, including the theory material, test papers and HSE-recognised certificate. Novice, semi-experienced, refresher and conversion packages are all available for this truck.