Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines which can be used outdoors and indoors. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just has to be used on surfaces which are flat for the majority of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are utilized more often in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that are utilized to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application since they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion engine. These types of forklifts are able to be used indoors but because of the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse applications. You will rarely find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 can be divided into four lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the specific type of forklift. Lift models are able to raise loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are used inside warehouses rather than IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal choice for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.