Lastcentrum explained: why 2,500 kg isn't always 2,500 kg
We often see it in enquiries: "We have a 2.5 ton forklift needed.” But whether that’s actually true depends on one detail that is often forgotten: the last center (last center). Below, we will explain it clearly, with examples you can apply directly.
The last center is the fork back distance to the center of gravity of the charge. Many forklifts are “called” on 500 mm center of last. If your load protrudes further forward (e.g., 800–1,000 mm due to long pallets, crates, or extended forks), then does the maximum safe lifting capacity decrease.
Tip In your request, do not just provide the weight, but also dimensions and how the load sits on the forks. Then we can recommend a forklift that stays safe and stable in practice. More terms are in the forklift glossary.
What is the center of gravity?
The load center is: how far the center of gravity of your load is in front of the fork back.With a standard pallet load, the center of gravity is often approximately in the middle of the pallet. That is why you very often see a nominal value of c = 500 mm.
Why this is so important
Forklifts are “rated” on a combination of factors: lift height, mast type, tires, attachments, and the load center. Therefore, the same forklift can have a larger load center lift fewer kilos safely.
Therefore, when we give advice, we often ask: “What is the weight and what are the dimensions?” This is how to prevent a truck from appearing to be within limits on paper but turning out to be underweight on location.
2) Why does the lifting capacity decrease as the load center increases?
Think of a seesaw: the further a weight is from the pivot point, the greater the tilting moment. The same happens with a forklift: if the load is further forward, the lifting moment increases. This reduces the maximum safe lifting capacity.
Important: always assume nameplate / load diagram of the specific forklift. Rules of thumb help, but the nameplate is decisive.
Rule of thumb + calculation example
A useful indication: lifting capacity is roughly inversely proportional to the load center. If the load center increases, the safe lifting capacity can significantly decrease.
| Situation | Lastcentrum (c) | What you often think | What can happen in practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 ton forklift (nominal) | 500 mm | “Good for 2,500 kg” | That's correct, if your center of gravity is around 500 mm |
| Same truck, load is further forward | 1.000 mm | “Still 2,500 kg” | Indication: much lower permissible lifting capacity (depending on mast/height/version) |
Please note: mast type, lift height, tires, and attachments make a big difference in reality.
4) Practical examples: where does it usually go wrong?
Common situations
- Long pallets / overhang center of gravity shifts forward.
- Large boxes/crates: A compact 1.200 kg can be safer than a long 900 kg.
- IBCs / Big Bags stability critical, especially at lifting height.
- Unilateral loading: not centered = extra risk.
Quick check
Meet (or estimate) the distance from the around until center of gravity.At 1200 mm pallet length, the center is at 600 mm. With goods protruding, you quickly reach 700–1000 mm.
5) Influence of attachments (and fork length)
An attachment changes the load centre and with it the lifting capacity. How to calculate this is explained in calculating residual capacity with attachments. This article explains the load centre itself.
Attachments are useful (side shifter, fork positioner, rotator, clamp, tilt bucket), but often affect the effective load center and net lifting capacity. Also extension spoons bring the load further forward.
Advice always pass on whether you are working with (or want to work with) pre-equipment. Then we will adjust the truck and configuration accordingly.
More info: rental equipment.
6) How to read the nameplate / load diagram
On the nameplate or load chart, you will see the safe lifting capacity for combinations of lift height, mast and last center.
Handy to remember
- Nominal power often applies to c = 500 mm.
- Higher lifting height = usually lower permitted power.
- Attachments and long forks often increase the effective load center.
7) Checklist: this is what we need for sound advice
With this information, we can recommend the right forklift in one go:
- Heaviest load (kg) typical load
- Dimensions (L × W × H) or protrusion beyond the fork back
- Type of lading (pallets, crates, rolls, big bags, IBCs, long goods)
- Lift height (claims, docks, containers)
- Work environment (inside/outside) + substrate
- Attachments or extension levers (yes/no)
- Duration of use (short, daily, long term)
Result: less risk, less downtime, and immediate correct deployment on site.
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