If a load is placed so that its center of gravity is further away from the fork carriage (an increased load center), what is the effect on the forklift?

Question: If a load is placed so that its center of gravity is further away from the fork carriage (an increased load center), what is the effect on the forklift?

Answer options:

• The forklift's capacity increases because the load is more balanced. ✅ The forklift's lifting capacity decreases.
• The forklift's capacity remains the same as long as the weight is unchanged.
• The stability triangle expands to provide better balance.

Correct answer: The forklift's lifting capacity decreases.

Explanation: The load center is the horizontal distance from the vertical face of the forks to the center of gravity of the load. As this distance increases, the leverage against the forklift increases, effectively reducing the rated lifting capacity.