An article I wrote for a client

  [The following is an article I wrote for a client while working as a Content/Technical Writer for Flint Analytics in 2021]

7 Classes of Forklifts In Indiana

Like most heavy machinery, forklifts are segmented into several different classes -- seven to be exact.  Knowing the differences between the seven classifications of forklifts in Indiana will help you make an informed decision when choosing a new forklift. It is also important to make sure your forklift operators are certified based on all the different classes of forklifts they will use. 

The 7 Forklift Classes

Forklift classes are based on usage, fuel type, location, terrain, and other features.

Class 1:  Electric Rider Forklifts

Electric rider forklifts are used in various places in Indiana such as loading docks and storage spaces. Since they are electric, these trucks do not have an impact on the environment. 

Powered by industrial batteries, these forklifts can use either cushion or pneumatic tires. They also control travel and hoist functions with transistor motor controllers. 

Class 2:  Electric Narrow Aisle Forklifts

These trucks are designed to navigate around narrow aisles and tight corners. As the name suggests, narrow aisle forklifts are used in warehouses or other places that have racks with close corners. 

Class 3:  Electric Hand And Hand-Rider Forklifts

These battery-powered lifts can be pushed, pulled, or otherwise moved by hand. The truck operator uses the controls located on the steering tiller to operate the forklift.  Motorized pallet jacks or burden movers are examples of a hand-rider forklift.

Class 4: Cushion Tires Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts

Diesel and propane forklifts are also classified by the types of tires they use. These trucks are primarily used indoors on smooth floors where they have an easier time navigating around racks or equipment. They ride lower to the ground than their pneumatic-tire counterparts, making them useful for low-clearance situations.

Class 5:  Pneumatic Tires Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts 

Pneumatic-tire trucks are larger and can be used indoors or outdoors in any condition.  Many forklifts with pneumatic tires work on rugged terrain or in large-capacity applications. 

Class 6:  Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors

Tow tractors allow efficient transport through your worksite.  They carry loads behind them through tight corners, up steep inclines, or over uneven surfaces.  Gas, propane, or diesel engines are generally used outdoors while electric-powered forklifts are usually reserved for indoor use.

Class 7:  Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks

Rough terrain forklifts are fitted with large pneumatic tires for outdoor use in uneven conditions like construction sites or gravel roads. They are most commonly used to lift and transport building materials around the job site.

Find the Forklift Model You Need at Tynan

From nimble narrow aisle forklifts to sturdy rough terrain trucks, our experts at Tynan can help you find the forklift class and model you need. Our service technicians can also quickly repair any class forklift to get your Indiana business up and running quickly.  Call us today!