Forklift trucks provide (secure) the efficient loading and unloading of straight trucks, tractor trailers, railway cars and elevators.

• Set the vehicle's brakes up.
• Chock the vehicles' wheels.
• Install fixed jacks to support a semi-trailer that is not coupled to a tractor to prevent it from upending.
• Post signs warning not to move a vehicle.
• Check that the height of the vehicle's entrance door clears the forklift height by at least 5 cm (2 in.).
• Make sure floors can support the combined weight of the forklift and the load.
• Inspect interior of a vehicle for the following: trash, loose objects and obstructions; holes or weak floors; poor lighting; and low overhead clearance.
• Install anti-slipping material in any area that could be a hazard because of weather conditions.
• Ensure that docks and dock plates are clear of obstructions and not oily or wet.
• Protect gaps and drop-offs at loading docks.
• Use dock levelers.

• Keep forks pointed downhill when traveling without a load on a ramp.
• Keep forks pointed uphill when traveling with a load on a ramp.

• Stay clear of edges of docks, rail cars or ramps. Have edges clearly marked.
• Do not tow or push railway cars or trucks with a forklift.
• Do not operate forklifts inside vehicles for long periods without ventilation.
• Make sure that the dock plate is properly secured and can support the load before driving over it. (Load weight should be clearly marked.)
• Drive carefully and slowly over the plate. Do not spin wheels.

• Cross railway track on a diagonal.
• Set handbrakes, wheel blocks and derailer before entering a railway car.
• Do not park a forklift within three meters of railway tracks.
• Do not open railway car doors with forklift forks.

• Do not enter any elevator unless specifically authorized to do so.
• Before entering any elevator, ensure that the forklift plus load weight does not exceed the elevator capacity.
• Approach the elevator slowly, stop at a safe distance from the elevator gate and enter squarely.
• Neutralize the forklift controls, shut off a motor, and apply the brakes.