3. Vehicle Selection: Most telehandlers and forklifts don’t have the capability to tow a trailer above 750kg. Over this weight, a proper towing hitch should be used in combination with inertia brakes (only between 750kg and 3,500kg), independent hydraulic or air braking systems. The vehicle, if it can tow, will have displayed a maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) and this mustn’t be exceeded. As an approximate guide, no telehandler or forklift will be able to tow over about 10,000kg. Always refer to the Operators’ Handbook before using the machine to tow.
To find out more, follow this link and download a free copy of the HSE regulations for vehicle safety:
HSG144 (Section 31. Vehicle Selection)
PUWER (regulation 9: training)