Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment which can be used indoors and outdoors. They can function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just has to be utilized 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 utilized more often in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Of the 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 usually describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC engine. These models are able to be used indoors but because of the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would rarely find these models in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can be broken down into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator sits down. To be able 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 have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the specific model. Lift models are able to lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used inside warehouses. 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 significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not operate well outdoors in bad weather conditions, are more expensive up front and most models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.