Definition of Forklift Classes
The forklift is utilized in numerous warehouse and retail settings for a variety of everyday task, like lifting bulky product, stocking shelves and delivering loads of goods. Based on the Industrial Truck Association there are eight forklift categories. The machines are classified according to type of engine or motor, kind of tires, and the way the equipment is steered. Forklifts are also known as lift trucks.
Class I forklifts - Electric Motor Forklifts
These are regular electric motor lift trucks. Types of Class I forklift include 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 require much space for operation. Class II trucks consist of forklifts with swinging masts and side-loading models.
Class III forklifts - Electric Motor Hand Trucks
Class IV forklifts - Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts
These trucks have engines similar to those found in cars. They come with either cushion tires or solid tires. Often the rear of the truck has a counterweight to make the machinery a lot more stable.
Both Class IV and Class V are usually counterbalance forklifts with IC engines. The difference is in the tires which are used. Class V trucks utilize radial or pneumatic tires.
Tractors
Class VI forklifts - Towing Tractor Lift Trucks
These trucks are sit-down tractors which can raise heavy loads and pull loads weighing over 450 kilograms. These trucks can come with either an an IC engine or an electric motor.
Class VII lift trucks - Rough Terrain Vehicles
This class of lift truck has internal combustion engines and pneumatic tires. They are usually employed in construction, logging and agriculture. These kind of trucks are recommended for worksites where the ground is uneven and rough and riddled with debris.
Class VIII forklifts - Manual Lift Trucks
These particular trucks are all manually operated by a person who pushes or pulls the vehicle. The forks are normally operated hydraulically, and have a low maximum lift height. This class consists of burden and personnel carriers.