Non-pallet + manual + no stack. 1(a) Two-Wheeled Hand Truck. Load tilted during.
Powered Industrial Trucks eTool: Types & Fundamentals - Types: Forklift Classifications Class I: Electric Motor Rider Trucks Class I I: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks Class I I I: Electric Motor Hand Trucks or Hand/ Rider Trucks Class I V: I nternal Combustion Engine Trucks (Solid/ Cushion Tires) Class V: I nternal Combustion Engine Trucks (Pneumatic Tires) Class VI: Electric and I. Powered Industrial Trucks eTool: Types & Fundamentals - Types: Forklift Classifications Class I: Electric Motor Rider Trucks Class I I: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks Class I I I: Electric Motor Hand Trucks or Hand/ Rider Trucks Class I V: I nternal Combustion Engine Trucks (Solid/ Cushion Tires) Class V: I nternal Combustion Engine Trucks (Pneumatic Tires) Class VI: Electric and I.
Material Handling Equipment
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I-C. Industrial Trucks
Industrial trucks are used to move materials over variable paths, with no restrictions on the area covered by the movement. The major types of industrial trucks are:
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Industrial trucks:
- Used to move materials over variable (horizontal) paths with no restrictions on the area covered (i.e., unrestricted area)
- Provide vertical movement if the truck has lifting capabilities
- Used when there is insufficient (or intermittent) flow volume such that the use of a conveyor cannot be justified
- Provide more flexibility in movement than conveyors and cranes
- Not licensed to travel on public roads—'commercial trucks' are licensed to travel on public roads
Characteristics:
- Pallet/Non-Pallet: Does the truck have forks for handling pallets, or does the truck have a flat surface on which to place loads. Non-Pallet => (usually) other means required to load truck.
- Manual/Powered:Does the truck have manual or powered vertical (lifting) and/or horizontal (travel) movement capabilities. Manual => walk => operator provides the force needed for lifting loads and/or pushing the vehicle. Powered => on-board power source (e.g., batteries) used for lifting and/or travel.
- Walk/Ride: For non-automated trucks, can the operator ride on the truck (in either a standing or sitting position) or is the operator required to walk with the truck during travel. Walk => manual or powered travel possible => powered travel speed limited to a normal walking pace. Ride => powered => travel speed can be faster than a walking pace.
- Stack/No Stack: Can the truck be used to lift loads for stacking purposes. Stack => can also be used as no stack => more expensive to add stacking capability. No Stack may lift a load a few inches to clear the floor for subsequent travel (e.g., pallet jack), but the loads cannot be stacked on top of each other or on shelves.
- Narrow Aisle: Is the lift truck designed to have a small turning radius or does it not have to turn at all in an aisle when loading/unloading. Narrow Aisle => greater cost and (usually) standing operator => less aisle space required. Counterbalance and/or straddle used for load support. Small turning radius => load support via straddle or reaching capabilities. No turning required => even narrower aisle => only one-side loading (sideloaders) or the capability to rotate the load (turret truck).
- Automated: Is the truck automated so that it can transport loads without requiring an operator. Non-Automated => direct labor cost of operator is by far the largest cost to operate a non-automated truck. Semi-Automated => operator used to control loading/unloading, but automated transport control (e.g., the S/R machine of a Man-on-board AS/RS). Automated => Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) => no direct labor cost, but higher equipment costs.
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1. Hand Truck
Non-pallet + manual + no stack
1(a) Two-Wheeled Hand Truck
Load tilted during travel
1(b) Dolly
Three or more wheeled hand truck with a flat platform in which, since it has no handles, the load is used for pushing
1(c) Floor Hand Truck
Four or more wheeled hand truck with handles for pushing or hitches for pulling
Sometimes referred to as a 'cart' or '(manual) platform truck'
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2. Pallet Jack
Pallet + walk + no stack
Front wheels are mounted inside the end of the forks and extend to the floor as the pallet is only lifted enough to clear the floor for subsequent travel
Pallet restrictions: reversible pallets cannot be used, double-faced nonreversible pallets cannot have deckboards where the front wheels extend to the floor, and enables only two-way entry into a four-way notched-stringer pallet because the forks cannot be inserted into the notches
2(a) Manual Pallet Jack
Pallet + walk + no stack + manual
Manual lifting and/or travel
2(b) Powered Pallet Jack
Pallet + walk + no stack + powered
Powered lifting and/or travel
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3. Walkie Stacker
Pallet + walk + stack
3(a) Manual Walkie Stacker
Pallet + walk + stack + manual
Manual lifting and/or travel (and straddle load support)
3(b) Powered Walkie Stacker
Pallet + walk + stack + powered
Powered lifting and/or travel (and either counterbalance or straddle load support)
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4. Pallet Truck
Pallet + ride + no stack
Same pallet restrictions as a pallet jack
Control handle typically tilts to allow operator to walk during loading/unloading
Powered pallet jack is sometimes referred to as a '(walkie) pallet truck'
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5. Platform Truck
Non-pallet + powered + no stack
Platform used to provide support for nonpalletized loads
Used for skid handling; platform can lift skid several inches to allow it to clear the floor
Greater lifting capacity compared to fork trucks because the platform provides a greater lifting surface to support a load
5(a) Walkie Platform Truck
Non-pallet + powered + no stack + walk
Operator walks next to truck
Floor hand truck is sometimes referred to as a '(manual) platform truck'
5(b) Rider Platform Truck
Non-pallet + powered + no stack + ride
Operator can ride on truck
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6. Counterbalanced (CB) Lift Truck
Pallet + ride + stack
Also referred to as fork truck.
Weight of vehicle (and operator) behind the front wheels of truck counterbalances weight of the load (and weight of vehicle beyond front wheels); front wheels act as fulcrum or pivot point.
Rated capacity reduced for load centers greater than 24 in. and lift heights greater than 13 ft.
Workhorses of material handling because of their flexibility: indoor/outdoor operation over a variety of different surfaces; variety of load capacities available; and variety of attachments available—fork attachments can replace the forks (e.g., carton clamps) or enhance the capabilities of the forks (e.g., blades for slipsheets).
6(a) Sit-Down Counterbalanced Lift Truck
Operator sits down
12-13 ft. minimum aisle width requirement
6(b) Stand-Up Counterbalanced Lift Truck
Operator stands up, giving vehicle narrow-aisle capability
9-11 ft. minimum aisle width requirement
Faster loading/unloading time compared to NA straddle and reach trucks
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7. Narrow-Aisle (NA) Straddle Truck
Similar to stand-up CB lift truck, except outrigger arms straddle a load and are used to support the load instead of the counterbalance of the truck
7-8 ft. minimum aisle width requirement
Less expensive than stand-up CB lift truck and NA reach truck
Since the load is straddled during stacking, clearance between loads must be provided for the outrigger arms
Arm clearance typically provided through the use of load-on-beam rack storage or single-wing pallets for load-on-floor storage
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8. Narrow-Aisle (NA) Reach Truck
Similar to both stand-up CB lift truck and NA straddle truck
8-10 ft. minimum aisle width requirement
Load rests on the outrigger arms during transport, but a pantograph (scissors) mechanism is used for reaching, thereby eliminating the need to straddle the load during stacking
Reaching capability enables the use of shorter outrigger arms (arms > 1/2 load depth) as compared to NA straddle truck (arms = load depth)
Counterbalance of the truck used to support the load when it extends beyond the outrigger arms
Although the NA reach truck requires slightly wider aisles than a NA straddle truck since its outrigger arms do not enter a rack during storage, it does not require arm clearance between loads (arm clearance is still required when the truck must enter a storage lane when block stacking or drive-in or -through racks are used)
Extended reaching mechanisms are available to enable double-deep storage
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9. Turret Truck
Greater stacking height compared to other narrow-aisle trucks (40 ft. vs. 25 ft.), but greater investment cost
Forks rotate to allow for side loading and, since truck itself does not rotate during stacking, the body of the truck can be longer to increase its counterbalance capability and to allow the operator to sit
Can function like a sideloader for transporting greater-than-pallet-size load
9(a) Operator-Down Turret Truck
Operator not lifted with the load
5-6 ft. minimum aisle width requirement
Termed a swingmast truck (picture shown) when, instead of just the forks, the entire mast rotates (thus can store on only one side of a aisle while in aisle)
9(b) Operator-Up Turret Truck
Operator lifted with the load to allow precise stacking and picking
5-7 ft. minimum aisle width requirement
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10. Order Picker
Similar to NA straddle truck, except operator lifted with the load to allow for less-than-unit-load picking
Typically has forks to allow the truck to be used for pallet stacking and to support a pallet during less-than-pallet-load picking
'Belly switch' used for operator safety during picking
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11. Sideloader
Forks mounted perpendicular to direction of travel to allow for side loading and straddle load support
5-6 ft. minimum aisle width requirement
Can be used to handle greater-than-pallet-size loads (e.g., bar stock)
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12. Tractor-Trailer
Non-load-carrying tractor used to pull a train of trailers (i.e., dollies or floor hand trucks)
Extends the transporting capacity of floor hand trucks
Typically used at airports for baggage handling
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13. Personnel and Burden Carrier
Non-load-carrying vehicle used to transport personnel within a facility (e.g., golf cart, bicycle, etc.)
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14. Automatic Guided Vehicle (AGV)
AGVs do not require an operator
Good for high labor cost, hazardous, or environmentally sensitive conditions (e.g., clean-room)
Also termed 'automated' guided vehicle
AGVs good for low-to-medium volume medium-to-long distance random material flow operations (e.g., transport between work cells in a flexible manufacturing system (FMS) environment)
Two means of guidance can be used for AGV systems:
Fixed path: Physical guidepath (e.g., wire, tape, paint) on the floor used for guidance
Free-ranging: No physical guidepath, thus easier to change vehicle path (in software), but absolute position estimates (from, e.g., lasers) are needed to correct dead-reckoning error
14(a) Tow AGV
Used to pull a train of trailers
Automated version of a tractor trailer
Trailers usually loaded manually (early type of AGV, not much used today)
14(b) Unit Load AGV
Have decks that can be loaded manually or automatically
Deck can include conveyor or lift/lower mechanism for automatic loading
Power Industrial Truck Types
Typically 4 by 4 feet and can carry 1–2,000 lb. loads
Typically less than 10 vehicles in AGV system
14(c) Assembly AGV
Used as assembly platforms (e.g., car chassis, engines, appliances)
Greatest development activity during the 1980s (alternative to AEMs)
Typically 50–100 vehicles in AGV system
14(d) Light Load AGV
Used for small loads (< 500 lbs), e.g., components, tools
Typically used in electronics assembly and office environments (as mail and snack carriers)
14(e) Fork AGV
Counterbalanced, narrow-aisle straddle, and sideloading versions available
Typically have sensors on forks (e.g., infrared sensors) for pallet interfacing
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Last modified: September 30, 1999
Forklift Classification Chart: Forklifts are one of the most powerful vehicles for builders. Whether you need to move heavy loads in a warehouse or construction field, forklifts can safely lift objects humans cannot, making them indispensable on any job site.
Since there is a wide selection of styles and models, it can be difficult to select a forklift. Whether you’re looking to rent a forklift for your next project or purchase one, our guide covers the different forklift types, the benefits of each equipment, and popular forklift models to help choose the right forklift for your needs.
Contents
- 1 Forklift classifications
Forklift classifications
What are the different Forklift types?
Productivity and efficiency can be increased in the workplace if one chooses the correct equipment for his or her needs. Today, warehouse operators and fleet managers have a wide array of material handling equipment to choose from. Some of the popular options include aerial lifts, electric forklifts, LPG forklifts, pallet jacks, side loaders, and even automated guided vehicles (or AGVs). (Forklift Classification Chart)
If you are looking to get new equipment to accomplish key tasks more efficiently, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the forklift classifications set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). Below is a detailed look at forklift classifications Classes I through VII, including their key features and benefits:
- Class I: Electric motor rider trucks
- Class II: Electric motor narrow aisle trucks
- Class III: Electric pallet jack
- Class IV: Cushion tire forklift
- Class V: Solid pneumatic tires
- Class VI: Electric forklift truck
- Class VII: Rough Terrain Forklifts
Electric motor rider trucks
Class I Forklift Classification Chart are electric motor riders. These electric-powered forklifts are ideal for loading and unloading tractor-trailers, handling pallets, and a number of other applications in industries ranging from food storage and retail to factory and general warehousing.
Because they are powered by an electric battery, Class I forklifts are much quieter and create no emissions, making them a popular choice for indoor applications. Batteries on Class I forklifts also function as part of the counterweight to help maintain lifting capacity.
Electric motor narrow aisle trucks
Class II Forklift Classification Chart is electric, narrow aisle models. As the name suggests, Class II forklifts are designed with maneuverability that allows them to operate in tight spaces and narrow aisles. This class of forklifts is perfect for picking and putting away inventory, and these trucks provide users the ability to increase racking space without expanding their current warehouse.
Toyota offers two Class II forklift models, and you can explore the unique features of each by clicking on the model name from the list below.
Electric pallet jack
Class III Forklift Classification Chart equipment includes electric pallet jacks, stackers, and tow tractors. This class of equipment comes in both rider and walk behind (“walkie”) models, perfect for unloading deliveries and moving loads to a staging area where they can be handled by other types of forklifts.
Toyota offers 10 Class III models, including three different stackers that are ideal for food and beverage storage industries, among others. Click on each forklift model below to learn more.
Cushion tire forklift
Class IV Forklift Classification Chart are internal combustion engine cushion tire trucks. This class of sit-down forklifts is designed for indoor use. Class IV forklifts are powered by internal combustion (IC) engines that run on diesel fuel, LP gas, gasoline, or compressed natural gas. Their solid, cushioned tires provide a smooth ride on indoor surfaces and they’re puncture-proof since they are not air-filled.
These forklifts offer users outstanding versatility for warehousing, distribution, retail, and automotive applications.
Solid pneumatic tires
Class V Forklift Classification Chart are internal combustion engine pneumatic tire trucks. Forklifts in this class are similar to those in Class IV but are designed primarily for outdoor use. These forklifts are highly durable and are ideal for lumberyards, construction sites, and other outdoor applications.
Electric forklift truck
Class VI Forklift Classification Chart equipment includes electric and internal combustion engine tow tractors. These machines are most commonly used for towing loads rather than lifting. Trucks in this class are ideal for use at airports but are also commonly used in assembly line areas.
Rough Terrain Forklifts
Class VII forklifts are rough terrain trucks. Trucks in this class feature large, tractor-style tires and are powered almost exclusively by diesel engines for outdoor use in rugged terrain. Class VII trucks are most commonly used at lumberyards or construction sites to lift building materials to elevated work sites.
Forklift Classification Chart
How to Choose A Forklift: Forklift Classification Chart
To choose a forklift from all the different types, you’ll need to think about how the machinery will be used. Here are general criteria to reference when choosing a forklift to make sure your selected equipment performs efficiently and safely:
- Determine the capacity. How much weight do you need to lift?
- Calculate the weight of your job site. Can the ground sustain the forklift?
- Measure the height of the space. Can your forklift pass through openings?
- Select the correct fuel type. Do you need battery power or gas?
- Analyze the terrain. Is the surface smooth or uneven?
Forklift types vary in several aspects, from their fuel type and tire composition to their lift capacity and height. It’s important to consider these different factors when selecting a forklift. With their ability to lift and transport things of various sizes, forklifts are valuable players on any job site.
Hoisting and Rigging
Forklift Classification Chart
Hoisting and rigging (H&R) refers to the lifting and moving of loads using mechanical devices. The objectives of the hoisting and rigging program are to protect personnel from injury, the environment from harm, and equipment and property from damage; specifically, to protect load operators and others in the work area, scientific equipment, other government property, and the hoisting and rigging equipment itself.
Hoisting and rigging is a complicated topic and can have significant safety consequences if not performed correctly. Fundamental to the H&R program, and consistent with Your Company’s integrated safety and environment management system, is the expectation that organizations involved in hoisting and rigging activities take responsibility to understand the hoisting and rigging requirements and apply them to their operations.
Forklift classification types
What are the different types of forklifts?The most popular forklift types on the market today are:
-Warehouse Forklift.
-Side Loader.
-Counterbalance Forklift.
-Telehandler.
-Industrial Forklift.
-Rough Terrain Forklift.
-Pallet Jack.
-Walkie Stacker.
Stand-up Reach forklifts are the most common variety and are mostly used when dispatching single loads into one bay. Alternatively, you can use a double-deep reach forklift, whose longer forks allow you to access bays with multiple pallet loads, as they will reach all the way to the back of the bay.
What are forklifts used for?A forklift (also called lift truck, jitney, fork truck, fork hoist, and forklift truck) is a powered industrial truck used to lift and move materials over short distances.
What kind of fuel do forklifts use?Internal combustion engine used in a forklift. Forklifts powered by internal combustion engines run on a variety of fuels, including gasoline, diesel fuel, liquid petroleum gas (LPG), and compressed natural gas.
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