We receive many questions about forklift truck attachments but there is one question that is more common than others – “What is the difference between rotating forks and fork rotators?”

Whilst they sound similar, rotating forks and fork rotators have distinct operational uses and are suited to different types of handling tasks. Understanding the difference helps operators choose the right attachment for safe and efficient load movement and also request the correct training course. Below is our helpful overview of the key functions and use for these two attachments.

Fork Rotators

Function: Rotators allow the entire fork carriage to rotate, typically up to 360 degrees, enabling the operator to tip, dump, or invert loads.

This attachment is commonly used to emptying bins, skips, or containers, handle waste, recyclables, or bulk materials. If your site has drums or hoppers, you will normally find fork rotators on your forklift trucks for tipping.

The key benefits of using fork rotators is that is allows for a controlled rotation of the load for disposal or repositioning without manual handling.

Safety Reminder

The rotation of any load will affect the stability of the machine. It is vital that operatives understand the effect that the attachment has on the capacity and load centre of the machine. Tip overs have occurred when operatives are utilising rotating forks with a live load. As the load is tipped the movement of the load and the associated weight can result in a tip over being carried out incorrectly.

Rotating Forks

Function: The individual forks rotate independently, often used to reposition or align loads, commonly used to clamp or grab a load.

Predominately found in industries where bulk handling is required such as building materials, waste and resource management, warehousing and distribution. This attachment is normally used to handle palletised and bulk loads that require clamping. The forks themselves rotate, not the carriage plate. This allows the width of the fork to clamp the load.

Safety Reminder

Never use the thin park of the forks to clamp a load. This does not provide enough surface contact on the load, and you risk a dropped or damaged load.

Using the wrong attachment can lead to load instability, equipment damage, or safety risks. Always match the attachment to the task—and ensure operators are trained in its correct use.