In short: A Big Bag lifter is pushed onto the forklift's forks, and the straps of a bulk bag (FIBC) are hung from its hooks. This keeps the bag's shape and distributes the load more evenly than lifting it directly under the bag with the forks. Choose a bag lifter based on its capacity and number of hooks, according to the actual weight of your bulk bags.
Why shouldn't you simply lift a bulk bag with the forks?
If the forks are pushed under the bag and it's lifted directly on the forks, the bag is loaded unevenly and can tear against the fork's sharp corners. A bag lifter hangs the bag from its own straps or loops, exactly as intended, and distributes the load evenly.
What to pay attention to when choosing?
- Capacity: must exceed the heaviest bag's full weight with a margin, not just equal it.
- Number of hooks: most bulk bags have four lifting straps, so a four-hook lifter holds the bag the most stably. A two-hook version suits bags that have two loops.
- Fork compatibility: the lifter's inner dimensions must match your forklift's forks, like any other fork-mounted attachment.
- Hook construction: round, smooth hooks are gentler on the straps than sharp-edged hooks.
Common mistakes when working with bulk bags
- Using an old, worn bag: straps wear out over time, so check them before lifting.
- Uneven hanging: if the straps aren't all evenly tensioned on the hooks, the bag tilts and may slip.
- Overestimating what the eye sees: a full bulk bag can be heavier than it looks, especially if the contents have become damp or compacted.
Relation to other attachments
If the material you're transporting is in bulk or liquid form rather than in a bag, also look at tipping containers. For transferring liquids and handling drums, a drum lifter and drum rotator is a better fit.
You'll find all forklift attachments in our Big Bag lifter range. Send us the weight of your bags and the number of straps, and we'll recommend the right model. For questions, contact us via our contact page.
Tell us your machine's make and model - we'll help you find the right attachment. We are the official importer of SE Equipment in Estonia.
