Professional Forklift Attachment Spreader Bars for Secure Wide-Load Handling | Vovlift

How to Choose a Forklift Spreader Bar

What is a forklift spreader bar?

A forklift spreader bar is an attachment that mounts to the forks or crane hook to widen the load-bearing points, letting a lift handle wide crates, panels, or slung loads without pinching or tipping them. Star Industries models on this page adjust from 12 to 20 feet to fit a range of load widths.

How wide does the bar need to adjust?

Measure the widest point of the load plus clearance for slings or rigging hardware, then confirm the bar's adjustment range covers that dimension with room to spare. All models here adjust between 12 and 20 feet, so match your widest expected load to the low end of that range for a margin of safety.

Do I need crane pick points or fork mounting?

Choose a bar with crane pick points if you're rigging loads with slings and a hook, or fork-mount versions if the load rides directly on the forks. The 1160BA and 1160B models on this page include 39″ OC fork spacing plus crane pick capability for either method.

What capacity does the bar need to carry?

Check the rated capacity against your heaviest load plus rigging weight, not just the forklift's own capacity — the spreader bar has its own limit that must clear the job. Confirm the capacity listed on each product page matches or exceeds your typical load before ordering.