Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that can be used indoors and outdoors. 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 only has to be used on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are used more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 usually describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC power. These kinds of forklifts could be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts which belong to Class 1 can be divided into four subcategories or lift codes. 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, whereas lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces that are very 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 device, depending on the particular kind of forklift. Lift models could lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly utilized in warehouses. There are some advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. To start with, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not function well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.