What Is a Forklift Hoist?

Warehouse terminology can get complicated because tools aren’t always named intuitively. For example, bulk boxes are more commonly known as Gaylord boxes — even though “bulk box" is quite a bit more descriptive. 

The term forklift hoists, on the other hand, is fairly straightforward: It refers to a range of products designed to turn a standard lift truck into a dedicated overhead lifting hoist.

Today, we’ll take a look at several different types of forklift hooks and their applications. If you’re looking for a specific lift truck attachment, call 1.800.BHS.9500 to speak with a member of our sales team or request a custom quote online. 

Forklift Hoists: Handling Materials Ergonomically and Cost Effectively

In most cases, “forklift hoist" refers to a single hoisting hook, which is exactly what it sounds like: A beam with an attached hook, used to lift batteries and other heavy objects. However, certain forklift truck attachments — such as a telescoping forklift jibs — can also qualify.

To understand how hoists impact efficiency and ergonomics, we’ll explore a few BHS products.

Forklift Attachment (FA)

Fork Attachments (FA) are the classic example of a versatile hoisting hook. It’s an industrial-strength accessory made of high-strength steel with a single-point lift design — essentially, it’s a secure heavy duty swivel hook that can lift several thousand pounds.

The FA has a weight capacity of up to 6,000 pounds, depending on the model, and a spring-latch hook keeps those loads in place. Operators should always consult the data plate for specific capacity limits. An acid- and impact-resistant powder coating provides durability for various industrial applications.

Use Cases: Lifting forklift batteries during maintenance, when used in conjunction with a BHS Battery Lifting Beam (see below). Maintenance technicians can also slip the FA onto a forklift to hoist motor housings, pumps, or tooling dies during facility repairs.

Battery Lifting Beam (BLB)

By definition, forklift hoists lift heavy materials — and the load needs to be adequately balanced in order to handle the heavy-duty material handling job safely.

Battery Lifting Beams (BLB) support and balance heavy industrial batteries during vertical extraction change-outs. Non-conductive hardwood load-bearing members protect battery casings from compressive damage while preventing electrical shorts during lifts.

Acid-resistant powder-coated steel framing supports loads up to 6,000 pounds. Multiple hook options — including fixed, adjustable, swing-latch, and slide-latch configurations — ensure compatibility with different battery brands and attachment points.

Use Cases: Attach the BLB to an overhead crane or gantry system to lift lead-acid batteries straight out of forklift compartments. Battery room operators managing mixed fleets can also configure the unit with adjustable hooks to service multiple battery dimensions.

Note that for larger fleets, dedicated battery handling options are preferable to using a forklift alone. Learn more: Choosing Between Powered and Manual Battery Handling Equipment.

Extendable Manual Forklift Jib Boom (MFJBE)

Forklift jib attachments convert standard lift trucks into mobile overhead cranes for flexible load positioning. Integrated fork pockets with retaining heel pins anchor the all-steel unit directly to the forks for safe, reliable transport.

A telescoping boom adjusts across pre-drilled points with laser-cut extension indicators, while a vertically pivoting base provides four discrete tilt angles (0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°) to gain added vertical reach. Features a retracted length of 92.25" (2,343 mm) and an extended length of 152.25” (3,867 mm).\

Use Cases: Assembly technicians can extend and tilt the jib boom to reach over equipment frames, positioning heavy parts into tight manufacturing bays. Dock workers can also use the telescoping reach to lift top-rigged cargo directly off flatbed trailers when side access is restricted.

Fixed Forklift Jib Boom (FFJB-6K-220)

Fixed Forklift Jib Booms (FFJB-6K-220) transform fork trucks into high-reach overhead lifting systems without relying on mechanical moving parts. Twelve distinct attachment points along the rigid steel beam allow operators to position the main hook based on load size and weight distribution.

A secondary Load-Lok hook situated at the boom tip stabilizes long or awkward materials during transit, eliminating load sway without requiring extra restraining chains.

Use Cases: Outdoor production yards can secure long items — such as steel pipes, roof trusses, or bundled tubing — using both hook points to keep materials steady across uneven ground.

Maintenance teams can also maneuver heavy generators or machinery into tight servicing areas where moving telescoping linkages could present mechanical wear risks.

Find the Right Forklift Hoists for Your Operation

Dedicated ergonomic equipment can make your facility much safer and more efficient. However, if you’ve already got a lift truck fleet, forklift jibs & hooks certainly have a role to play in your material handling strategy.

If you’re tackling a specific material handling challenge, we’re here to help. Get a quote for custom warehouse equipment online or call 1.800.BHS.9500 to explore options for hoists, bin tippers, battery handling systems, and more.