I have a question for you that grow the large pumpkins. How do you lift them and put them on a pallet. I have a front end loader with forks but do not want to damage the pumpkin when lifting it. I am not going to move it until I pick it, but if it keeps growing like it is now it will be more than a person can lift by hand.

I have some really big rubber hose I slide over forks then set forks to correct width I might be able to find picture from few years back

When lifting are they at risk of collapsing under their own weight?

I've often wondered that and if special slings or cradles were needed.

I do not think they will collapse under its own weight.

my brother raises them every year, when they are smaller he puts them on a pallet and let's them grow on it

don't know how big you are talking , but if like1000lbs or more you will need a lifting ring. Its a metal ring about the size of steering wheel with several straps with a rope attached through loops in the bottom of the straps. Use the rope like a draw string to draw straps under pumpkin and tie.

Bingo same with huge watermelons

I should have put it own a pallet but got busy and did not do it. It should be around 550 pounds at time of harvest if it keeps growing at the rate it is now.

I’ve rolled pumpkins onto a bedsheet, cinched off the top with an 1/8” cable. Picked them up with cable hooked to tractor bucket. I’m talking 250 #, not a 1000+ pound Dill Atlantics.

Bearsallow is correct. I grow giants and purchased a special lift ring that is made specifically for the job. If under 200 lbs can use a tarp or heavy sheet and a friend.