Ground-Level Loading for Forklift Transport

Looking for the right trailer for forklift transport?

A standard warehouse forklift may look compact, but the dense iron counterweight hung over the rear axle gives even small units an extreme weight-to-size ratio. Many warehouse forklifts combine substantial weight, a rear counterweight, and relatively low ground clearance. Moving that kind of machine on a ramp requires careful attention to ramp angle, traction, clearance, and the forklift manufacturer’s operating instructions.

Why fight physics on a high incline? Drop-deck trailers deliver gentle, near-ground-level drive-on capability. A hydraulic drop deck reduces the height and ramp angle the forklift has to negotiate, which can reduce loading difficulty and the potential for scraping, or for tipping the forklift.

Forklift Transport Ramp Traction

Ramp traction. Cushion tires and other forklift tires can lose traction on wet, dirty, or slick loading surfaces, so ramp condition and manufacturer guidance matter.

Low-clearance transitions. Some warehouse forklifts have relatively low undercarriage clearance, making a sharp ramp-to-deck transition more likely to create scraping or high-centering concerns.

Ramp stability. Forklifts are particularly sensitive to operating angle because of their weight distribution and center of gravity. OSHA identifies tip-over as a potential hazard when traveling on ramps and grades.

Good Trailers: Easy Forklift Hauling

A GoodMFG® drop deck changes the loading geometry by bringing the deck much closer to ground level. Using the wireless remote, the articulating suspension lowers the deck to 5.4 inches above the ground.

The GT19FL Ground-Level Advantage

Shallow 11° approach. A short 22-inch long, 76.5″-inch-wide ramp spans the entire full rear width of the trailer, eliminating narrow ramp balancing acts.
Reduced breakover angle. Because the lowered deck stays level, the forklift transitions from the short 11° ramp onto a 5.4-inch-high deck without a pronounced ramp-to-deck crest. That can help reduce scraping or high-centering for compatible low-clearance forklifts.
More accessible securement. The low deck can make some securement points easier to reach from ground level. Optional D-ring stake pockets add trailer-side anchor locations for use with an appropriate securement arrangement. Use the forklift manufacturer’s designated transport or tie-down points rather than attaching restraints to convenient-looking components.

Once loaded, push a button to raise the deck to standard 18-inch highway travel height, latch the safety locks, and hit the road.

Important Note: Forklift Transport Caveat

Follow the forklift manufacturer’s ramp instructions. OSHA guidance calls for unloaded forklifts to travel with the forks downgrade, prohibits turning on ramps, and says operators should not use grades beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations.

FAQ

What types of forklifts can you haul on GoodMFG® trailers?

It depends on the exact forklift. Compare its transport weight, overall length and width, undercarriage clearance, and any manufacturer transport requirements with the trailer.

The GT19FL provides a 17′9″ × 6′10″ usable deck and an estimated 8,000-pound carrying capacity. Remember that securement equipment and anything else carried on the trailer also consume available payload.

Which GoodMFG® model is the best for hauling forklifts?

The GT19FL is worth considering for forklifts that fit within its deck dimensions, available carrying capacity, loading geometry, and securement requirements.

Can you haul forklifts in an enclosed trailer?

Potentially, yes. GoodMFG® has physically demonstrated loading a forklift into one of our enclosed drop-deck trailers.

The limiting factors are the specific forklift’s weight and dimensions—particularly overall height and the trailer’s rear-door opening.

For example, the GT19AL has an 18′7″ × 6′10″ × 7′6″ interior, a 74.4″ × 85.4″ rear opening, and an estimated 7,929-pound carrying capacity. The GT19HDX increases the rear-opening height to 95 inches, although its estimated carrying capacity is lower at 6,622 pounds.

Key Takeaways

Here’s your TL;DR if you’re thinking hard about uploading to drop deck trailers for forklift transport this year.

Lower loading geometry. The GT19FL lowers to 5.4 inches and uses a short 22-inch, 11° ramp, reducing the climb to the deck.
Reduced breakover severity. The low transition can help reduce scraping or high-centering for compatible low-clearance forklifts.
Substantial carrying capacity. The GT19FL provides an estimated 8,000 pounds of carrying capacity, but select the trailer using the specific forklift’s actual transport weight and dimensions.
Follow forklift ramp procedures. Direction of travel, allowable grade, and operating procedure should come from the forklift manufacturer and applicable safety guidance.
Enclosed transport is also possible for appropriately sized forklifts. Check rear-opening height and width as well as payload before choosing an enclosed model.

Load Low, Haul Good

If you’re hauling forklifts on the regular, then you want to reduce the risk of damage or injuries as much as possible. This is especially true for equipment rental companies, who must haul forklifts weekly, or even daily. If you’re ready to upgrade, we’re here to help. Find your nearest dealer now or contact us for options.