7 Classes of Forklifts Explained

Forklift trucks have been around for a long time, and they’re used in warehouses all over the world. Did you know there are seven different classes of forklifts? Forklift operators must be certified for every class of forklift they’ll operate. Do you know which class of forklift is right for your business? Whether you are buying a forklift or simply using a forklift rental company to provide your equipment, it’s important to know the differences between the seven classes.

Forklift trucks have been around for a long time, and they’re used in warehouses all over the world. Did you know there are seven different classes of forklifts? Forklift operators must be certified for every class of forklift they’ll operate. Do you know which class of forklift is right for your business? Whether you are buying a forklift or simply using a forklift rental company to provide your equipment, it’s important to know the differences between the seven classes.

• Class 1: Electric Motor Rider Trucks: Equipped with either cushion or pneumatic tires, these vehicles are powered by industrial batteries. The type of tire determines their intended use: cushion for indoor use and pneumatic for dry, outdoor applications. These trucks are very versatile and are typically used where air quality is a consideration.
• Class 2: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks: This class of forklift lets companies maximize storage space by using very narrow aisles. These vehicles are designed to use very little space but operate with speed and efficiency.
• Class 3: Electric Motor Hand or Hand-Rider Trucks: In these forklifts, the operator is in front of the truck controlling the lift by hand using controls atop a steering tiller. These vehicles are battery powered, with the smaller ones using industrial batteries.
• Class 4: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks with Cushion tires: Designed for use on smooth dry floors, these forklifts are used to transport palletized loads to and from the loading dock and storage area. Lower to the ground than forklifts with pneumatic tires, these forklifts are good for low-clearance applications.
• Class 5: Internal Combustion trucks with Pneumatic tires: Most commonly used in warehouses, these forklifts can be used for just about any kind of application. They have a large capacity range and can be used for small or large containers. These forklifts are available for use with LPG, gasoline, diesel, and compressed natural gas.
• Class 6: Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors: Versatile enough to be used for many different applications, these vehicles can have an internal combustion engine for outdoor use or use a battery-powered electric motor for indoor use.
• Class 7: Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks: The large flotation tires on these vehicles allow them to be used on difficult terrain. They’re often used at places like construction sites and lumber yards.

If you’re looking for forklifts, look to Ring Power Lift Trucks. For 60 years, our locally-owned and operated business has provided superior products and the newest technology in forklift vehicles, meeting or exceeding our customers’ expectations. With 14 convenient locations throughout Florida, Ring Power Corporation has become one of the largest Caterpillar® dealers in the Southeastern United States because of our dedication to customer service. Whether you need to buy a new or used forklift, or you’d prefer a short-term or long-term forklift rental, we’re here for you. We also supply forklift parts and service in north and central Florida for every make and model of forklift.  Call 877.544.5438 or visit our website for more information.