Definition of Forklift Classes
The forklift is utilized in numerous retail and warehouse environments for various everyday task, including lifting bulky product, stocking shelves and delivering loads of goods. According to the Industrial Truck Association there are eight forklift classes. The equipment are classified according to kind of motor or engine, kind of tires, and the way the machine is steered. Forklifts are also referred to as lift trucks.
Class I forklifts - Electric Motor Forklifts
These are standard electric motor lift trucks. Types of Class I forklift comprise the sit-down, three-wheeled varieties that are commonly used to transport pallets of mulch at home goods stores.
Class II forklifts - Narrow Aisle Electric Motor Lift Trucks
These trucks do not need much 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
These trucks have engines similar to those found in cars. They come with either cushion tires or solid tires. Normally the back of the truck has a counterweight to make the equipment a lot 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 utilize radial or pneumatic tires.
Tractors
Class VI forklifts - Towing Tractor Lift Trucks
These trucks are sit-down tractors that could lift bulky loads and pull loads weighing over 450 kilograms. These trucks could come with either an electric motor or an IC engine.
Class VII lift trucks - Rough Terrain Vehicles
Class VII lift trucks have IC engines and pneumatic tires, that are best used in rough terrains such as construction, logging and agriculture. These trucks are great for worksites where the ground is uneven and rough and riddled with debris.
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 consists of personnel and burden carriers.