Telescopic forklifts (also known as telescopic handlers) are versatile workhorses that bridge the gap between forklifts and cranes—capable of lifting, reaching, and placing loads in tight or high-up spaces, making them essential for construction, agriculture, warehousing, and municipal projects. However, choosing the wrong telescopic forklifts or ignoring safe operation rules can lead to inefficiency, equipment damage, or serious accidents. At SECUN, we’ve engineered a range of telescopic forklifts to meet diverse needs, and we’re sharing a complete guide to selecting the right model and following critical operation norms—helping you maximize productivity while keeping safety a priority.

    Part 1: How to Select the Right Telehandler for Your Needs

    Choosing a telescopic forklift isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” decision—your selection must align with load requirements, working environment, and task type. Here’s how to narrow down the options

• Match Load Capacity & Lift Height to Your Tasks

    The first rule of selection is ensuring the telescopic forklift can handle your maximum load and reach the required height—overlooking this leads to overwork or task failure.

    Light-Duty Tasks (Agriculture/Warehousing): For lifting hay bales, pallets of feed, or warehouse stock (loads 1–3 tons, lift height 6–9 meters).

    Medium-Duty Tasks (Construction/Municipal Work): For lifting building materials (e.g., steel beams, concrete blocks) or maintaining streetlights (loads 3–5 tons, lift height 9–12 meters), opt for a mid-sized model. It features reinforced telescopic arms and a stable base for uneven job sites.

    Heavy-Duty Tasks (Mining/Large-Scale Construction): For heavy loads (5–8 tons) or high-reach work (12–15 meters, e.g., lifting equipment to upper building floors), choose a heavy-duty telescopic forklift. SECSUN telescopic forklift equipped with high-torque engines and wear-resistant forks to handle abrasive materials.

• Consider the Working Environment

    The terrain and space of your job site dictate key features:

    Outdoor/Uneven Terrain (Farms/Construction Sites): Select 4WD telescopic forklifts with large, rugged tires (e.g., SECUN’s all-terrain tire option) for traction on mud, gravel, or slopes. Look for models with slope stabilization systems to prevent tipping.

    Indoor/Tight Spaces (Warehouses/Factories): Choose 2WD telehandlers with compact dimensions and low-emission engines. 

    Extreme Conditions (High-Altitude/Cold Regions): Opt for telescopic forklifts with cold-start systems (-30°C compatibility) and high-altitude engine calibration (to avoid power loss above 3,000 meters). SECUN offers customized kits with heated cabs and anti-freeze hydraulic fluid for such environments.

• Choose the Right Attachments

    Telescopic forklifts’ versatility comes from attachments—select ones that match your tasks to avoid unnecessary costs:

    Standard Forks: For pallets, boxes, or flat materials. Bucket Attachments: For moving soil, sand, or loose materials (ideal for agriculture or construction site prep). Crane Hooks: For lifting irregular loads (e.g., pipes, machinery) that can’t be secured with forks.

    Platform Attachments: For lifting workers to high areas (e.g., maintenance, tree trimming)—ensure the attachment is certified for personnel use.

    Part 2: Critical Operation Norms for Safe & Efficient Telescopic Forklifts Use

    Even the right telescopic forklift requires proper operation to avoid risks. Follow these key norms:

• Pre-Operation Checks: Never Skip This Step

    A 5–10 minute pre-use inspection prevents breakdowns and accidents:

    Fluid Levels: Check engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, and fuel—SECUN’s digital display alerts you to low levels. Low hydraulic fluid can cause the arm to drop suddenly.

    Tires & Brakes: Inspect tire pressure (for 4WD models) and tread wear; test brakes and parking brake to ensure they engage firmly.

    Safety Components: Verify that the operator’s seatbelt, arm lock, and emergency stop button work. Check attachments for cracks or loose bolts—never use damaged attachments.

• Load Handling Rules: Avoid Tipping & Overloading

    Tipping is the most common telescopic forklift accident—follow these rules to stay stable:

    Never Exceed Load Capacity: Each telescopic forklift has a load chart (posted in the cab) that specifies maximum load at different lift heights.

    Center the Load: Position forks or attachments so the load’s center of gravity is over the telescopic forklift’s base. Avoid side-loading (lifting loads to the side)—this shifts balance.

    Keep Loads Low When Moving: Lift the load just enough to clear the ground (10–15cm) when traveling. High loads increase instability, especially when turning.

• Operator Position & Visibility

    Poor visibility or incorrect positioning leads to collisions or missed hazards:

    Sit Properly & Fasten the Seatbelt: Adjust the seat to see all controls and the working area; never lean out of the cab or stand on the seat to reach farther.

    Clear Blind Spots: Use mirrors and SECUN’s optional 360° camera system to check for workers, obstacles, or other equipment. Sound the horn before moving or turning.

    Avoid Operating on Slopes: Never lift or move loads on slopes steeper than 10° (SECUN’s telescopic forklifts have slope indicators to warn you). If you must work on a gentle slope, keep the load on the uphill side.

• Emergency Protocols

    Know how to respond to crises to minimize risk:

    Sudden Arm Drop: Engage the emergency arm lock (located near the controls) and use the manual lowering valve to safely lower the arm.

    Tipping Risk: If the telescopic forklift starts to tip, stay in the cab and lean away from the tipping direction—never jump out (this increases injury risk).

    Power Failure: Use the manual pump to lower the arm and exit the cab safely. SECUN’s telescopic forklifts have clearly labeled emergency controls for easy access.

    A telescopic forklift is a long-term investment—selecting the right model and following operation norms ensures it delivers value for years. With SECUN’s versatile telescopic forklifts, expert guidance, and ongoing support, you can tackle any task efficiently and safely.