The 7 Classes of Forklifts: A Complete Guide to Forklift Classifications

Understanding the different classes of forklifts can be confusing—even if you’ve been in material handling for years. Whether you work in a warehouse, on a construction site, or are a new operator, knowing the distinctions between forklift classes helps ensure you choose the right equipment for your application.

In this guide, we break down the seven forklift classifications, what makes each one unique, and the applications they’re best suited for.

How Many Forklift Classes Are There?

There are seven forklift classes, classified by fuel type, design, and intended application. They range from Class I electric forklifts to Class VII rough terrain forklifts. Select a class below to jump to its description:

• Class I: Electric Motor Rider Trucks
• Class II: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks
• Class III: Electric Motor Hand or Hand/Rider Trucks
• Class IV: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks (Cushion Tires)
• Class V: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks (Pneumatic Tires)
• Class VI: Electric & Internal Combustion Engine Tractors
• Class VII: Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks

Class I – Electric Motor Rider Trucks

Class I forklifts run on electric batteries, which also act as counterweights. Operators can sit or stand, depending on the model. Available with either pneumatic or cushion tires, Class I forklifts offer exceptional versatility.

Best for:

• Indoor warehouses
• Facilities with strict air quality requirements
• Environments requiring quiet operation

Key Benefits:

• Low noise and zero emissions
• Lower overall operating costs
• Minimal maintenance
• Available in 3‑ or 4‑wheel options
• Suitable for a wide range of lifting capacities

Class II – Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks

Class II forklifts are designed for high‑density warehouse storage and narrow aisles. Their compact size and specialized attachments allow businesses to maximize pallet positions without expanding warehouse space.

Best for:

• Narrow aisle racking
• High-throughput operations
• Order picking and pallet handling

Common Types:

• Order pickers
• Reach trucks
• Turret trucks
• Stand‑up riders

Class III – Electric Motor Hand or Hand/Rider Trucks

Class III equipment includes walkie pallet jacks, walkie stackers, and electric hand/rider trucks. These lifts are ideal for moving loads across warehouse floors, particularly when no high lift is required.

Best for:

• Low-lift applications
• Warehouse floor transportation
• Loading/unloading trailers

Class IV – Internal Combustion Trucks (Cushion Tires)

Class IV forklifts use internal combustion engines powered by gasoline, diesel, compressed natural gas (CNG), or LP gas. Their cushion tires make them best suited for indoor applications with smooth floors.

Best for:

• Indoor warehouses
• Low-clearance aisles
• Moving goods from docks to storage

Key Features:

• Low ground clearance
• Often counterbalanced
• Reliable for high‑capacity indoor lifting

Class V – Internal Combustion Trucks (Pneumatic Tires)

Class V forklifts are among the most widely used due to their pneumatic tires, which make them effective both indoors and outdoors. They offer excellent traction and stability on uneven surfaces.

Best for:

• Outdoor yards
• Warehouses requiring indoor/outdoor flexibility
• Heavy-duty lifting

Fuel Options:

• Diesel
• Gasoline
• LPG
• CNG

Class VI – Electric & Internal Combustion Engine Tractors

Commonly known as tuggers, Class VI tractors are primarily used for pulling loads rather than lifting them. You often see them at airports moving luggage carts.

Best for:

• Airports
• Manufacturing
• Assembly line towing

Class VII – Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks

Designed for outdoor, rugged environments, Class VII forklifts feature large pneumatic tires—similar to tractor tires—that provide stability on uneven ground.

Best for:

• Construction sites
• Lumber yards
• Auto recycling yards

Key Features:

• Typically diesel-powered
• Available in 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive
• Often equipped with telescoping masts

Choosing the Right Forklift Class

Selecting the right forklift depends on your environment, load capacity, aisle widths, and the surfaces you operate on. Understanding these classes helps you narrow down the best lift truck for your needs.

If you're buying or leasing a forklift—or still unsure which class is right for your business—contact your local UniCarriers® Forklift dealer for expert guidance.