JCB JCB Telescopic Forklift

That makes the range unusually easy to read. A 531-70 lifts around 3.1 tonnes to 7 metres, a 541-70 a good 4 tonnes to the same height. The first number decides the load, the second the reach — and together they decide whether the machine suits the job.

A trailing T marks differing versions of the same size, as in the 531-T70 against the 531-70. Anyone sourcing parts or comparing offers should read that letter too; it separates variants that would otherwise read alike.

One thing stays important with any telehandler: rated capacity applies to a specific load centre and to the boom retracted. The further the boom extends, the less may hang from it. What a machine may actually lift in a given position is in the load chart — not in the type designation.