Definition of Forklift Classes
The forklift is utilized in many warehouse and retail settings for a variety of daily task, like carrying bulky product, delivering loads of goods and stocking shelves. Based on the Industrial Truck Association there are eight forklift classes. The machinery are classified according to type of tire, type of motor or engine, and the way the equipment is steered. Forklifts are also referred to as lift trucks.
Class I forklifts - Electric Motor Forklifts
This class includes all standard electric motor lift trucks. Kinds of Class I forklift include the sit-down, three-wheeled varieties which are often utilized to move pallets of mulch at home goods stores.
Class II forklifts - Narrow Aisle Electric Motor Lift Trucks
Narrow aisle trucks do not need 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 automobiles. They come with either solid tires or cushion tires. Often the rear of the truck has a counterweight to make the vehicle more stable.
Both Class V and Class IV are usually counterbalance forklifts with IC 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 which could raise bulky loads and pull loads weighing more than 450 kilograms. These trucks could are available with either an an IC 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 commonly employed 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 pulls or pushes the vehicle. The forks are usually operated hydraulically, and have a low maximum lift height. This class consists of burden and personnel carriers.