Using one forklift to carry or lift another forklift is highly dangerous and generally prohibited by industry safety standards. However, there are safe, approved methods for towing a disabled forklift or transporting one on a trailer.
Lifting a Forklift with Another Forklift – Never Do This
Lifting a forklift with another forklift is considered a major safety violation and should never be attempted.
Risks Include:
Exceeding load capacity: The lifting forklift may not be rated for the weight of the other forklift, leading to tip-over
Damage to equipment: Forks or chassis can be damaged by improper lifting
Load instability: The lifted forklift may not be balanced correctly on the forks
Trailer or ground failure: The weight can cause a trailer to tip or collapse
Operator injury: Lack of proper safety equipment (seatbelts, PPE) and operation in unsafe areas (e.g., on roads) increases risk
Regulatory Requirement: OSHA requires that no forklift shall handle loads exceeding its rated capacity. The total weight of the object being lifted must be within the capacity of the lifting forklift; supporting part of the load with another truck is not permitted.
Towing a Disabled Forklift – Approved Method
If a forklift becomes disabled but can be moved freely on its wheels, towing is the approved method.
Towing Procedures (from Clark EC 70 Operator's Manual):
Prepare the disabled truck: Apply the parking brake or block the drive wheels.
Raise the carriage: If possible, raise the forks about 12 inches (300 mm) from the floor and secure the carriage with a chain.
Select the towing truck: Use another lift truck of equal or larger size. The towing truck should be partially loaded for traction.
Use proper tow bar: Use an approved solid metal tow bar with towing couplers that connect to the towing pin in the counterweight or to the frame/chassis.
Check counterweight bolts: Ensure counterweight bolts are in place and properly torqued.
Towing Precautions:
Never tow if there are problems with brakes, tires, or steering
Never tow up or down ramps or steep inclines
Never tow if traction conditions are poor
Always tow with the truck in "Neutral"
Manufacturer Warning: Standard forklifts are not designed for towing and should not be used to tow other forklifts or trucks. Some manufacturers explicitly caution against using the draw bar for towing.
Transporting a Forklift on Another Vehicle – Safe Method
For moving a forklift over public roads, it must be transported on a trailer or cargo unit, not lifted by another forklift.
Regulatory Requirements (Nevada Administrative Code):
The forklift must be required for loading/unloading the cargo unit
The forklift must be transported behind or on the last vehicle in the combination
It must be securely fastened using chains or cables of sufficient strength to prevent movement or separation
The total length of the forklift must not exceed 18 feet
Speed must be limited to prevent swaying
If transported after dark, tail lamps, stop lamps, and turn signals are required
Summary
Method Safety Status Key Requirement
Lifting a forklift with another forklift Prohibited Never attempt; violates load capacity rules
Towing a disabled forklift Approved (emergency) Use equal/larger truck, solid tow bar, safe procedures
Transporting on a trailer Approved Secure with chains/cables, follow road regulations
A forklift is designed to lift loads, not to lift other forklifts. Always use the correct equipment and facilities for the job.