Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that can be utilized outdoors and indoors. They are capable of functioning 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 flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are used more often in outdoor operation and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 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 use since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely 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 models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 could 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, 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 use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
A term used for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could fit into tighter spaces also. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the particular model. Lift models are able to raise pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used in warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to utilizing 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 most models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.