While there are 10 different types of forklifts, they are also organized by classification of which there are seven. The forklift classes are outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to describe their fuel option and use. Operators must be aware of the necessary forklift safety practices for each classification and be certified on each class of forklift to operate it.
The different forklift classifications are as follows.
Class I – Electric Motor Ride Truck
Class I forklifts are powered by batteries and designed specifically for indoor use where air quality may be a concern.
Examples of electric motor ride trucks may include warehouse and counterbalance forklifts.
Fuel Type: Battery
Use: Indoor settings such as warehouses
Class II – Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Truck
Class II forklifts are classified for their ability to fit and maneuver within tight spaces such as the aisles in a warehouse. These are also powered by rechargeable batteries and are intended for inside use only.
Some examples of electric motor narrow aisle trucks may include side loaders, order pickers, walkie stackers and reach fork truck forklifts.
Fuel Type: Battery
Use: Moving inventory in narrow or tight spaces
Class III – Electric Motor Hand Truck
Class III forklifts are another type of battery-operated truck. Instead of having a cabin or controls to drive the forklift, this class allows the operator to manually move the truck and then use the controls to raise and lower the forks.
An example of an electric motor hand truck includes a powered pallet jack.
Fuel Type: Battery
Use: Quickly unloading delivery trucks across short distances
Class IV – Internal Combustion Engine With Cushion Tires
Class IV forklifts are similar to class I, but the main difference is the fuel type and tires. Since these forklifts are operated by gas or diesel, they emit fumes into the environment, making them unfit for indoor settings with little ventilation. Cushion tires are only intended for smooth surfaces, so while they may be suitable for some outside projects, they are not suitable for rough terrain.
Examples of internal combustion engines with cushion tires may include warehouse and counterbalance lifts that require fuel rather than charging.
Fuel Type: Gas or diesel
Use: Low-clearance situations
Class V – Internal Combustion Engine Trucks With Pneumatic Tires
Class V forklifts are similar to class IV lifts but are classified differently due to their tires. Thanks to the pneumatic tires, these trucks offer superior shock absorption that’s fit for uneven terrains.
Examples of internal combustion engine trucks with pneumatic tires may include warehouse, counterbalance and heavy-duty forklifts.
Fuel Type: Gas or diesel
Use: Indoor and outdoor with rough surfaces
Class VI – Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors
Class VI forklifts aren’t for lifting loads so much as towing them. They can pull massive loads — up to 55,000 pounds. These types of trucks can be found in both indoor and outdoor settings, such as warehouses and airports.
An example of an electric and internal combustion engine tractor is called a tugger.
Fuel Type: Battery, gas or diesel
Use: Hauling or towing loads
Class VII – Rough Terrain Forklift Truck
Class VII lifts are classified for their use on rough, uneven surfaces such as gravel and dirt paths. These lifts are only intended for outdoor use and have specialized tires and counterweights to ensure the load stays stable while being transported across various terrains.
Examples of rough terrain forklift trucks may include telehandlers and rough terrain forklifts.
Fuel Type: Gas or diesel
Use: Construction sites, uneven ground, high-elevation lifting
Forklift Sizes
Forklifts range in size and dimensions depending on their function. Although they are versatile machines, you’ll need the right size for the job.
Standard forklifts generally measure between 4 and 7 feet wide and from 8 to 10 feet long. Outdoor or rough terrain forklifts can be greater than 10 feet in length, while narrow aisle forklifts like walkie stackers and side loaders can measure less than 5 feet. However, if you are using a forklift in a warehouse setting, it’s important to consider the aisle width. Standard counterbalance forklifts require aisles of approximately 13 feet wide to effectively turn, navigate and move pallets.
Another measurement to consider is height. Most standard forklifts can reach heights between 10 and 15 feet, but special forklifts like the telehandler can lift as high as 55 feet, depending on the telehs you select.
Elements of a Forklift
While size plays an important role, a forklift’s design and its various parts allow it to carry an impressive amount of weight. The key elements a forklift to consider include its life capacity, load center and stability. Forklifts have varying abilities in each category that must be taken into account when choosing one.
- Lift capacity: The amount of weight a forklift can carry safely while remaining stable
- Load center: The distance from the forks to the load’s center of gravity; varies depending on the load weight, lift angle and tilt angle
- Stability triangle: The area under the forklift that maintains the center of gravity and prevents the vehicle from tipping over
How To Choose A Forklift
When choosing a forklift that best fits your project, you’ll need to consider the following criteria to make sure your selected equipment performs efficiently and safely:
- Determine the capacity. How much weight do you need to lift?
- Calculate the job site’s stability. Can the ground sustain the forklift?
- Measure the space’s height. Can your forklift pass through the designated openings?
- Select the correct fuel type. What setting are you working in? Do you need battery power or gas?
- Analyze the terrain. Is the surface smooth, uneven or rough?
Forklift types vary in several aspects, from their fuel type and tire composition to their lift capacity and height, and it’s important to consider these factors when selecting a model.
For more information about any of the forklifts contact us on 07037991274