A counterbalanced forklift is a type of material handling equipment commonly used in warehouses and industrial settings to lift, transport, and stack heavy loads. It is called "counterbalanced" because the weight of the forklift itself, often enhanced by a cast iron counterweight at the rear, offsets the weight of the load being lifted at the front. This design allows the forklift to maintain balance and stability without the need for additional support legs. Equipped with forks at the front, these forklifts typically have a compact, versatile design, making them suitable for a variety of tasks, from loading and unloading trucks to moving pallets within confined areas. Their straightforward operation and robust build make them indispensable for efficient material handling.