If the load is not hard against the heel of the forks, what effect will it have on a forklift?

When the load is not hard against the heel of the forks, it creates an imbalance that can significantly affect the forklift's stability and capacity. The heel of the forks is designed to support the load securely and provide optimal weight distribution while lifting. If the load is positioned further away from the heel, it creates a higher center of gravity and can lead to an increased risk of tipping or instability during operation. Additionally, the forklift’s rated capacity is based on loads being properly positioned, meaning that any misplacement can reduce the effective lifting capacity. Hence, the situation directly affects both the stability of the forklift while lifting and its capacity to handle the load safely and effectively.