Frequently Asked Questions

General Product Information

Q. What are forklift spreader beams used for?
A. Forklift spreader beams are designed to extend the versatility of your forklift by safely lifting wide or uneven loads. They provide balanced support for long items such as steel, timber, or bulky materials that cannot be lifted securely with standard forks.

Q. What are the standard fork pocket sizes on these spreader beams?
A. The spreader beams are supplied with fork pockets sized at 140x50mm for a maximum fork size. If your forklift has larger forks, contact us directly, as alternative pocket sizes can be manufactured to suit your requirements.

Q. Are these beams suitable for heavy-duty industrial use?
A. Yes. They are built with robust materials and a durable finish to handle demanding applications in warehouses, construction sites, and manufacturing environments.

Q. Is a user manual included with the product?
A. Yes. A user manual is supplied to provide clear setup, operation, and safety guidance.

Usage and Operation

Q. How does a forklift spreader beam improve lifting safety?
A. By distributing the weight of long or uneven loads across a wider span, the spreader beam prevents tipping and load damage, ensuring safer and more stable handling.

Q. Can the beam be attached quickly to my forklift?
A. Yes. The beam slides onto the forks through the pockets and secures in place, making attachment and removal straightforward.

Q. What types of loads can I use the spreader beam for?
A. It’s ideal for wide or irregular loads such as packs of timber, steel beams, pipes, panels, and other items that extend beyond the normal fork span.

Q. Can the beam be adjusted to suit different loads?
A. Yes. Depending on the design, lifting points and hooks can often be adjusted along the beam to best suit the load being lifted.

Maintenance and Care

Q. What regular checks should I perform on the spreader beam?
A. Inspect welds, lifting eyes, and securing pins for wear or damage before use. Ensure fork pockets are free from debris and confirm the locking system works correctly.

Q. How should I store the beam when not in use?
A. Store it on level ground in a dry area, ideally on a rack or pallet, to prevent damage and make handling easier when next required.

Q. Are replacement components available?
A. Yes. Replacement parts such as shackles, pins, or hooks can be supplied if needed to maintain safe use.

Purchasing and Delivery

Q. What is the typical delivery time for spreader beams?
A. Standard delivery is usually 10 working days. For larger or customised fork pocket sizes, delivery may take slightly longer depending on the specification.

Q. Can I request custom fork pockets or beam lengths?
A. Yes. If your forklift requires larger fork pockets or you need a specific beam size, contact us for a tailored solution.

Q. Are spreader beams sold individually?
A. Yes. Each beam is supplied as a single unit, complete with the required fittings for immediate use.

Safety and Regulations

Q. Are the beams compliant with workplace lifting regulations?
A. Yes. They are built to meet standard UK and EU safety requirements for lifting attachments, ensuring they can be used in compliance with site safety policies.

Q. What safety practices should operators follow?
A. Always secure the beam to the forks, centre the load evenly, and never exceed the stated working load limit. Operators should be trained in correct attachment use and load handling.

Q. Does the beam reduce the risk of load damage?
A. Yes. By spreading the lifting points across a wider distance, the beam prevents bending or distortion of long items, reducing costly damage during handling.