The forklift is the main tool for moving warehouse cages, but improper operation is also a leading cause of workshop accidents. A warehouse cage has a high center of gravity and forklift slots at its base, so even a small deviation during pickup can tip it. Proper operation must be controlled at four points: fork alignment, lift height, travel speed and parking position.
Align before picking up. The forks must enter the forklift slots at the base of the cage from the front, to a depth of at least two-thirds of the cage length—never lift after only half insertion. Set fork spacing to match the slot width; typically the two forks sit under the base frame beams on each side, avoiding one-sided loading.
Control height when lifting and traveling. Once the cage leaves the ground, keep fork height at 15~20cm; higher travel means more wind resistance and a less stable center of gravity. Inside the workshop, travel no faster than 5km/h, and slow down and sound the horn when turning, passing doorways or when visibility is blocked. Never raise or lower the forks while moving, and never lift a cage on a single fork.
Watch the load state during transport. Cargo inside the cage must sit steadily and must not extend beyond the cage edges; if it is bulk material, confirm there is no loose shifting. After lifting, pause for 1~2 seconds to see whether the cage tilts, and move only once stability is confirmed. When setting down, wait until the cage is fully on the ground before withdrawing the forks—never drag it.
Parking and handover must follow the rules too. After transport, cages must be placed in designated areas, never blocking aisles or fire hydrants. Nanjing Tongnuo Warehouse Equipment Manufacturing Co., Ltd. reminds that forklift operators must be certified, must inspect forks, chains and hydraulics daily before work, and must replace forks once wear exceeds 10% of original size.