An electromagnetic switching valve, for which the maximum opening is set to be small, is disposed on piping between a lift cylinder and a hydraulic pump motor. A pilot check valve, for which the maximum opening is set to be larger than the electromagnetic switching valve, is disposed on piping, different from the piping, between the lift cylinder and the hydraulic pump motor. In addition, during lowering operations, first, the electromagnetic switching valve is opened, and then after the same is opened, the pilot check valve is opened after a prescribed time has passed. Thus, the shock generated when lowering an object to be raised/lowered is reduced and a fork is operated quickly.