A forklift load capacity chart is the visual guide on a forklift’s data plate that shows how much weight the truck can safely lift at different heights and load center distances . Understanding this chart prevents tip-overs, the leading cause of forklift fatalities.
What the Chart Tells You
The chart or data plate provides the forklift’s rated capacity at a specified load center—typically 24 inches (600mm) from the face of the forks . However, that full capacity only applies under ideal conditions: the load center at the standard distance and the mast fully upright.
The chart shows how capacity decreases as the load center moves farther forward or as the mast lifts higher .
Key Terms
Term Definition
Rated Capacity Maximum weight the forklift can lift under ideal conditions (standard load center, low height)
Load Center Distance from the fork face to the load’s center of gravity; standard is 24 inches
Residual Capacity Actual safe lifting weight at a given height and load center (often lower than rated)
How to Use the Chart
1. Find your load center—Measure the load’s center of gravity distance from the fork face .
2. Check rated capacity for that load center—Many data plates list capacities at multiple distances (e.g., 24", 30", 36") . Standard load center ranges vary by capacity:
0-1,000 kg (0-2,200 lbs): 400mm (16 inches)
1,001-5,000 kg (2,201-11,000 lbs): 500mm (20 inches)
5,001-10,000 kg (11,001-22,000 lbs): 600mm (24 inches)
3. Factor in lift height—Many charts adjust capacity at different heights . As lift height increases, capacity typically decreases—sometimes significantly (see example below).
4. Account for attachments—Attachments add weight and shift the load center forward, reducing capacity. Always check the adjusted rating .
Sample Toyota Traigo48 Chart
Toyota’s Traigo48-8FBE16T (1.6 ton nominal capacity) shows how capacity drops with height and load center :
Height (mm) Capacity at 500mm LC at 600mm LC at 1000mm LC
3000 1600 kg 1420 kg 990 kg
5000 1600 kg 1320 kg 930 kg
7000 750 kg 660 kg 460 kg
At 500mm load center, full capacity holds up to 5000mm height. At 1000mm load center, capacity drops by nearly 40% even at low heights.
Quick Calculation
If your data plate does not show the exact load center, use this formula:
Safe Capacity = (Rated Load Center × Rated Capacity) / Actual Load Center
Example: 5,000 lbs at 24 inches, lifting a load with center at 36 inches:
(24 × 5,000) / 36 = 3,333 lbs safe capacity
Where the Chart Is Located
The chart is typically found on the data plate mounted on the forklift dashboard or near the operator compartment . Missing or illegible plates violate OSHA standards.
The Bottom Line
A forklift’s rated capacity applies only at a standard load center (usually 24 inches) and low lift height. As the load center moves forward or lift height increases, safe capacity drops. Always reference the load capacity chart—operating by guesswork invites a tip-over .