Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines that can be utilized outdoors and indoors. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only needs to be used on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are utilized more frequently in outdoor operation and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC engine. These kinds of forklifts are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can be broken down into 4 lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The forklift operator stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
A term used for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are operated by a standing rider and utilized in tight spaces. They are great for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can fit into tighter spaces too. Class 3 operator either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the particular model. Lift models can lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Usually, electrical forklifts are utilized in warehouses rather than internal combustion or IC engine forklifts. There are disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. For start, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not function well outdoors in bad weather and most models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.