Definition of Forklift Classes
Forklifts are used in various everyday tasks in warehouse and retail settings, such as raising heavy merchandise, stocking shelves and delivering loads of goods. Based on the Industrial Truck Association there are eight categories of forklift. The machines are classified based on kind of engine or motor, kind of tires, and the way the machine is steered. Forklifts are also referred to as lift trucks.
Class I forklifts - Electric Motor Forklifts
This class includes all regular electric motor lift trucks. Types of Class I forklift consist of the sit-down, three-wheeled varieties that are commonly used to move pallets of mulch at home goods stores.
Class II forklifts - Narrow Aisle Electric Motor Lift Trucks
Narrow aisle trucks do not need a lot of space for operation. Class II trucks include side-loading models and forklifts with swinging masts.
Class III forklifts - Electric Motor Hand Trucks
Class IV forklifts - Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts
IC engine forklifts are quite similar to standard automobile engines. These machines do come with cushion tires or solid tires. Often the rear of the truck has a counterweight to make the machinery more stable.
Both Class IV and Class V are normally counterbalance forklifts with internal combustion engines. The difference is in the tire. Class V trucks utilize pneumatic or radial tires.
Tractors
Class VI forklifts - Towing Tractor Lift Trucks
Class VI lift trucks are sit down trailers which tow bulky loads, loads up to 450 kilograms. These trucks can come with either an an IC engine or an electric motor.
Class VII lift trucks - Rough Terrain Vehicles
Class VII lift trucks have pneumatic tires and IC engines, that are best utilized in rough terrains like logging, agriculture and construction. These trucks are recommended for worksites where the ground is riddled with debris and is uneven and rough.
Class VIII forklifts - Manual Lift Trucks
These trucks are hand pallet lift trucks operated by a person who either pulls or pushes the vehicle. The forks are usually operated hydraulically, and have a low maximum lift height. This class consists of personnel and burden carriers.