The Importance of a Forklift Data Plate

There are many important components of a forklift – one of them being the data plate. The data plate contains vital pieces of information pertaining to the forklift including the fuel type, load capacity, model and serial numbers. When training, and prior to operating the truck, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the information found on this plate to minimize the risk of accidents and to better prepare yourself for operating the truck. Below you’ll see a list of key pieces of information that can be found on the plate and what they mean.

• Load Capacity: The load capacity is the most critical piece of information you’ll need to know regarding your forklift. You’ll see in the example below, this is circled. The load capacity indicates how much weight the forklift can carry and should never be exceeded to prevent tipping and other hazards.
  To the left of the load capacity in columns A,B & C are the load centre, the maximum fork height, and the vertical centre of gravity
• Name of Manufacturer: In the example shown below, you’ll find this on the left hand side of the plate.
• Model number: The model number of your forklift is important to have on hand in the case of needed service or ordering parts. It’s there so that you can quickly reference it if you need assistance regarding your truck.
• Serial Number: The serial number is crucial for forklift technicians. This number allows them to better understand the truck you’re operating and to better match parts to it as well as knowing how to service the particular lift in question.
• UL Classification Type: In this case for electric truck, (EE) – this item is applicable to various hazardous zones, and range in safety level from ‘E’ or standard, ‘ES’, ‘EE’ and highest level of safety rating of ‘EX’.
• Mast Type: The mast type varies based on the model of your forklift and specifications to meet your requirements.
• Fuel Type: Specifies how the truck is fueled or the kind of truck it is. The data plate below, for example, indicates that it’s an electric forklift and lists the battery type underneath. This portion indicates the battery specific criteria required by the manufacturer when selecting the correct battery. It must meet the minimum battery weight requirement in order for the truck to maintain its lifting capacity.
• Back Tilt: This number indicates the number of degrees the mast can tilt backwards to keep loads on the forks securely.
• Attachments: This tells you the type of attachment(s) the truck may be equipped with – in this case ISS (integrated side shift).
• Tire Type & Size: The data plate will indicate the size and type of tire. In the plate below, you’ll see that this forklift is equipped with cushion tires. If you’re ever in the position to replace tires on your lift truck, they should always be replaced with the same type they came with.
• Truck Weight: The overall weight of the truck.