Definition of Forklift Classes
The forklift is used in many warehouse and retail settings for various everyday task, like carrying heavy product, delivering loads of goods and stocking shelves. Based on the Industrial Truck Association there are eight forklift classes. The machines are classified based on type of engine or motor, type of tires, and the way the machinery 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. Kinds of Class I forklift consist of the sit-down, three-wheeled varieties that are often utilized to transport pallets of mulch at home goods stores.
Class II forklifts - Narrow Aisle Electric Motor Lift Trucks
These trucks do not require a lot of space to operate. Class II trucks include forklifts with swinging masts and side-loading models.
Class III forklifts - Electric Motor Hand Trucks
Class IV forklifts - Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts
IC engine forklifts are quite like standard car engines. These machinery do come with solid tires or cushion tires. Often the back of the truck has a counterweight to make the equipment more stable.
Both Class V and Class IV are usually counterbalance forklifts with internal combustion engines. The difference is in the tire. Class V trucks use radial or pneumatic tires.
Tractors
Class VI forklifts - Towing Tractor Lift Trucks
These trucks are sit-down tractors that can lift heavy loads and pull loads weighing more than 450 kilograms. These trucks can come with either an an internal combustion engine or an electric motor.
Class VII lift trucks - Rough Terrain Vehicles
This class of lift truck has pneumatic tires and internal combustion engines. They are usually utilized in agriculture, construction and logging. These trucks are recommended for worksites where the ground is riddled with debris and is rough and uneven.
Class VIII forklifts - Manual Lift Trucks
These trucks are hand pallet lift trucks operated by an individual who either pushes or pulls the vehicle. The forks are usually operated hydraulically, and have a low maximum lift height. This class includes burden and personnel carriers.