LETENG / Load capacity guide
Forklift Load Capacity:
Load Centre & Lift Height
Read the configuration behind the capacity label: load centre, mast, lifting height and attachments all belong in the same quotation.
A model rating is only the starting point.
Nominal capacity describes a rated lifting condition. The permitted load for a particular job also depends on the load centre, lift height, mast and attachments. Ask for the capacity information covering that complete configuration before selecting a truck.
The buying question: “Can this configuration handle our heaviest loaded pallet at our required height?” Include the load dimensions and attachment details with that question.
Load centre: where the weight acts.
The horizontal load centre is measured from the vertical fork face to the load’s centre of gravity. A long or uneven load can place that point farther forward. Do not assume a truck’s nominal rating applies at any load centre.
A geometry example, not a capacity calculation.
For a uniformly distributed rectangular load placed flush against the fork face, a 1,000 mm load depth puts its centre halfway along, at 500 mm. A 1,200 mm depth puts it at 600 mm. Packaging gaps, overhang or uneven contents can change the actual position. These examples do not establish how much a LETENG model may lift.
Request capacity at the working height.
Capacity available in a given configuration is often called residual capacity. Higher placement and a different load centre may reduce it. Mast choice and attachments belong in the same review; an attachment adds weight and may move the load forward.
Use the selected truck’s capacity plate or manufacturer-approved capacity information. Do not use a simple ratio, an unrelated model’s chart or the model name to authorise a lift.
For quotation purposes, report the intended placement level and the handling clearances needed at that location. Also supply the lowest doorway and overhead restrictions. Maximum fork height, lowered mast height and free lift answer different questions and should be identified separately.
Ask for a quotation you can verify.
| You provide | Ask the supplier to confirm |
|---|---|
| Maximum total load | Capacity for goods, pallet and packaging together. |
| Load dimensions and weight distribution | The load centre used for the proposed configuration; identify any uncertain or irregular load. |
| Required placement height | Mast specification and permitted capacity at the relevant height and load centre. |
| Side shift, fork positioner or other attachment | The exact attachment included in the capacity assessment, not an unconfigured base-truck figure. |
| Doorway, aisle and route measurements | Configured dimensions and loaded manoeuvring requirements for the route. |
| Shift and charging arrangements | Battery and charger specification; do not infer runtime from motor power. |
Keep the quotation, configuration description and capacity information together. If the mast or attachment changes before delivery, ask for the updated specification and capacity confirmation for that change.
Compare nearby models on the same job.
For example, shortlist the 2-ton LT-CPD20, 2.5-ton LT-CPD25 and 3-ton LT-CPD30 using an identical requirement sheet. Changing the test load or lift height between quotations makes the nominal ratings a poor basis for comparison.
The same process applies to a 1.5-ton electric forklift or an electric pallet stacker. A higher tonnage label does not resolve a blocked pallet entry or a doorway that the mast cannot clear.
For heavier-load applications, also review the 7-ton LT-CPD70 electric forklift. Confirm the actual load chart, mast, attachments and site clearances before selecting a configuration.
For distributor orders, identify the machine and configuration supplied to each end user. A capacity statement for one mast and attachment combination should not be copied across the range.
Questions before you compare prices.
Does a 3-ton forklift lift 3 tonnes at maximum height?
That cannot be determined from the nominal rating alone. Check capacity at the required height and load centre for the actual mast and attachments.
Does choosing a larger model solve the problem?
It may be a candidate, but it still needs the same capacity, pallet-access and route checks. Compare the proposed configurations against one requirement sheet.
Can I use the load-centre example as a load chart?
No. The example only explains where the centre of a uniform load lies. It does not calculate permitted capacity and is not an operating instruction.
Technical reference: Toyota Material Handling: nominal and residual capacity. Consult the capacity information supplied for your actual machine; another manufacturer’s chart is not a LETENG load chart.
Bring the details.
Get a matched configuration.
Share your pallet photos, maximum load, lifting height and working route. Add quantity and destination so the quotation addresses the actual job.
Discuss your requirements