FAQs Hoppers

A forklift hopper attachment, also known as the self-dumping hopper, is designed to automatically dump trash into a dumpster.
(Courtesy: Jacob Dickinson at flickr.com)

There are a plethora of accessory attachments that can be used to expand the capability of a forklift. One of the most important is the hopper. The hopper, also referred to as the self-dumping hopper, A hopper is designed to automatically dump trash into a dumpster.

What follows are some frequently asked questions concerning hoppers. It is hoped that the answers will enlighten you as to the practicality of this accessory.

Q: What is a self-dumping hopper?
A: A self-dumping hopper is a forklift attachment that gathers up trash and then deposits that trash in a dumpster. The dumping procedure occurs automatically when the bumper of the hopper releases the side of the dumpster. After the dumping occurs, the hopper returns to its upright position automatically.

Q: Can the hopper also be used manually?
A: Yes. The hopper includes a cable that permits the forklift operator to dump the contents manually from his seat.

Q: How is the hopper attached to the forklift?
A: The hopper includes 5.5-inch x 2.5-inch pockets as well as a base fork pocket that is 3/16-inch thick. The forklift forks slips into the pockets and then it is secured to the forklift using a locking chain.

Q: Does it come in different sizes?
A: Yes, it comes in a wide range of sizes as well as capacities and can be customized with a variety of options. The medium-duty steel hopper can hold up to a full cubic yard of waste weighing up to 4,000 pounds. When lowered to the ground, it returns to an upright position and locks. Another style of hopper is perfectly balanced so that it automatically returns to its upright locks when the contents have been emptied. There are also hoppers that hold up to three cubic yards of waste weighing as much as three tons. ForkliftAccessories.com offers self-dumping steel hoppers with and without bumper release, portable steel hoppers with power traction drive, fabric hoppers, steel shoot hoppers, and open ended steel dumping hoppers, portable steel and low profile hoppers that do not attach to forklifts.

Q: Are there options that can be purchased for the hoppers?
A: Yes. Forkliftaccessories.com offers leak-proof, drain plug, and sideways tilt options for “D” style hoppers and “H” style steel hopper options as well as heavy-duty poly lids and hopper casters.

Q: Why would a warehouse want to use a hopper?
A: It is an ideal tool that converts a forklift into a refuse remover. It can be used to clean out machine shops, construction sites, warehouses, and more. Affordable and easy to use, it can turn material handling and disposal into a simple, one person job.