Telehandler Reach Capacity: How to Read the Load Chart and Avoid Tip-Over
Telehandler reach capacity is the most important number on the machine—more important than engine horsepower, travel speed, or bucket size. Every telehandler has a load chart that tells you exactly how much weight it can lift at every combination of boom extension and height. Ignoring telehandler reach capacity is the primary cause of telehandler tip-overs, and a tip-over at height can be catastrophic. This article explains how to read a telehandler load chart, what factors reduce capacity, and why the number on the chart is the absolute ceiling—not a suggestion.
Telehandler Load Chart Explained: The Grid That Saves Lives
A telehandler load chart is a grid with boom angle (or fork height) on the vertical axis and boom extension (or reach) on the horizontal axis. Each cell in the grid shows the maximum load in kilograms the machine can handle at that specific height and reach combination. The numbers are not linear: a telehandler rated at 4,000 kg at boom retracted may drop to 1,200 kg at maximum reach. This is because telehandler reach capacity follows the load moment principle—as the boom extends, the lever arm increases, and the tipping force grows proportionally.
The chart for a KL940 telehandler shows this clearly: at ground level with boom retracted, capacity is 4,000 kg; at 8 meters height with boom fully extended, capacity may fall to under 800 kg. Always read the chart before every lift—never rely on memory.
Telehandler Capacity at Maximum Reach: Why It Drops So Dramatically
Telehandler capacity at maximum reach is often just 15–25% of the rated capacity at boom retracted. This surprises many operators who assume "4,000 kg rated" means 4,000 kg everywhere. It does not. The physics is straightforward: the longer the boom, the greater the overturning moment. At maximum extension, even a small load creates a large tipping force because the lever arm is at its longest. Wind, dynamic swinging of the load, and uneven ground further reduce the effective telehandler reach capacity.
Two additional factors reduce capacity at height: load center and attachment weight. The load chart assumes the load center is at 500 mm from the fork carriage. If your pallet is deeper—say 600 mm—the effective load is heavier than the chart accounts for. And any attachment added to the forks (work platform, bucket, jib) subtracts from the available capacity because the attachment itself is part of the load. Always subtract attachment weight from the chart value before calculating how much payload you can lift.
How to Read Telehandler Load Chart: Step-by-Step
How to read telehandler load chart in three steps: First, identify the boom angle or fork height you need for your lift. Second, identify the boom extension or reach required. Third, find the cell where these two values intersect—this is your maximum rated capacity for that specific combination. If the load exceeds the chart value, you must reduce the load, shorten the reach, or lower the height.
Modern telehandlers include load moment indicators (LMI) that display real-time capacity as the boom moves. If the indicator shows you are at 90% of rated capacity, stop and re-evaluate. Never disable or ignore the LMI—it is the last line of defense between a routine lift and a tip-over. For operator training and telehandler accessories that keep your lifts safe, contact us.
