Transform Your Crane into a Forklift with Crane Forks

Sometimes, you need to get pallets or other products into high places. A forklift is the usual equipment for this, but if you are working with a crane instead, there’s a solution: the crane forklift attachment. This specialized attachment works seamlessly with cranes, providing a practical solution for lifting and transporting palletized or loose loads.

What Is a Crane Fork Attachment?

A crane fork attachment, or crane pallet fork, is a lifting accessory that attaches to a crane to facilitate the safe and efficient handling of loads. It consists of two fork tines, similar to those found on a forklift, mounted on a robust frame. The attachment is designed to be suspended from a crane’s hook, allowing it to lift pallets, crates, or other materials easily.

Key Features of Crane Forks

Two Tines Styles: Most crane fork attachments are designed to accept different fork tine styles. General-purpose tines are the best choice for handling a wide variety of materials. Block tines are specially adapted for use with cubed or banded blocks but can also be used with other materials, including brick.

Self-Balancing Mechanism: Many modern crane forks are equipped with self-shifting (spring-loaded) load-leveling pickup trolleys, which keep the forks level when empty and maintain the payload’s center of gravity. This feature ensures that the load remains stable and level during lifting, reducing the risk of tipping or uneven weight distribution.

Adjustable Stops, Forks Spread, and Load Heights: Some crane forks have adjustable stops that can accept 36”, 40”, and 48” pallets.  The forks can spread up to 40 inches wide, and the king post can adjust for load heights from 48”to 68”.

Robust Construction: Well made crane fork attachments are typically constructed from high-strength steel, ensuring durability and the ability to handle heavy loads. They are designed to withstand the rigors of industrial environments, including construction sites, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities.

Safety Features: Safety is a critical consideration in the design of crane fork attachments. Many models include safety chains or hooks to secure the attachment to the crane and locking mechanisms to prevent accidental load slippage.

Typical Applications of Crane Fork Attachments

Crane fork attachments can handle various loads, from standard pallets to loose materials like bricks, blocks, or timber. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any lifting operation. Some of the most common applications include:

Construction Sites: Crane forks are frequently used to lift and transport building materials, such as bricks, concrete blocks, and timber, to elevated or hard-to-reach areas of a construction site.

Logistics: Crane fork attachments are employed to move palletized goods in warehouses, logistics centers, and manufacturing plants, especially in facilities where forklifts may not be available or practical.

Shipping and Ports: These attachments are ideal for loading and unloading palletized cargo from ships, trucks, or containers, ensuring efficient cargo handling in busy port environments.

Agricultural Operations: Forks are used in agriculture to lift and transport heavy loads, such as bales of hay, feed, or equipment, with ease.

Want to learn more about our full range of crane attachments? Contact our team today.