What Are the 5 Classes of Forklifts?

Jared Allen

Jared Allen

Member
Messages
30
Hey everyone,
I’ve been researching forklifts and came across the fact that they’re categorized into different classes. I know there are multiple types designed for different applications, but I’m curious of what are the 5 main forklift classes, and how do they differ?

Some specific questions I have:
  • What defines each forklift class, and what types of jobs are they best suited for?
  • Are certain classes more common in warehouses, construction, or outdoor environments?
  • How do fuel types (electric, diesel, propane) factor into forklift classifications?
  • Any recommendations on which class to choose for specific tasks?
If anyone has experience using different forklift types, I’d love to hear your insights! Thanks in advance.
 
Hey Jared,

Good question! Forklifts are divided into different classes based on their design and purpose. The five main classes are:

Class I – Electric Motor Rider Trucks
Battery-powered and great for indoor warehouses, especially where air quality matters. Super quiet and low maintenance, but charging downtime can be a factor.

Class II – Narrow Aisle Trucks
Designed for tight warehouse spaces—think reach trucks and order pickers. They maximize storage efficiency but require specific training to operate.

Class III – Electric Hand Trucks (Pallet Jacks)
These are your go-to for moving pallets in retail stores or warehouses. Mostly electric, easy to maneuver, but not for heavy lifting.

Class IV – Internal Combustion (IC) Cushion Tire Trucks
Propane or gas-powered, best for indoor use on smooth floors. Solid for warehouses needing more power than electric models.

Class V – IC Pneumatic Tire Trucks
Diesel or propane-powered beasts made for outdoor work, construction sites, and rough terrain. These are your heavy lifters for big jobs.

Fuel type definitely plays a role—electric is king for indoor use, while diesel and propane dominate outdoor work. If you’re working in a warehouse, Class I or II is usually the best bet. For outdoor or heavy-duty applications, Class V is a common go-to.

What kind of work are you looking to use one for?
 
Nice breakdown, @bumble_bee123! I’ve mostly used Class IV and V forklifts on job sites, Class V especially holds up great outdoors. Curious if anyone’s had issues switching between electric and propane forklifts in mixed-use spaces?
 
Solid summary already shared here! I’ve mostly worked with Class I and V forklifts, Class I is perfect for clean warehouse work, but Class V is a beast outdoors. Just make sure you match the tire type and fuel to your jobsite, or you’ll run into headaches real fast.
 
Great points all around! I’ve mainly used Class I indoors and Class V outdoors too and definitely agree on matching tires and fuel type to the environment. Has anyone here tried using Class II reach trucks in a warehouse with uneven flooring? Wondering how they hold up compared to standard Class I setups.
 
Great info here! I’m also curious if anyone had to modify their warehouse layout or racking just to accommodate Class II narrow aisle trucks? Worth the space savings, or more trouble than it's worth?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top