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Forklift Truck Types: A Complete Guide to the 7 OSHA Classes

Published time：

2026-06-27

Author：

Xin Hong Guang

Source：

Xin Hong Guang

Abstract

Forklift trucks are classified by OSHA into seven distinct classes based on fuel type, design, and application. Understanding these classifications is essential for selecting the right equipment for your operation.The 7 Forklift ClassesClass Name Key Features Common ExamplesClass I Electric Motor Rider Trucks Zero emissions, quiet operation, battery serves as counterweight 3-wheel and 4-wheel counterbalance forklifts, sit-down and stand-up ridersClass II Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks Designed for tight spaces and high-density storage Reach trucks, order pickers, turret trucks, side loadersClass III Electric Motor Hand Trucks Walk-behind or rider models, low-lift applications Pallet jacks, walkie stackers, tow tractorsClass IV Internal Combustion Trucks (Cushion Tires) LPG/diesel/gasoline engines, solid tires for smooth indoor floors Counterbalance forklifts with cushion tiresClass V Internal Combustion Trucks (Pneumatic Tires) Air-filled tires for indoor/outdoor use, better tracti

Forklift trucks are classified by OSHA into seven distinct classes based on fuel type, design, and application. Understanding these classifications is essential for selecting the right equipment for your operation.


The 7 Forklift Classes

Class Name Key Features Common Examples

Class I Electric Motor Rider Trucks Zero emissions, quiet operation, battery serves as counterweight 3-wheel and 4-wheel counterbalance forklifts, sit-down and stand-up riders

Class II Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks Designed for tight spaces and high-density storage Reach trucks, order pickers, turret trucks, side loaders

Class III Electric Motor Hand Trucks Walk-behind or rider models, low-lift applications Pallet jacks, walkie stackers, tow tractors

Class IV Internal Combustion Trucks (Cushion Tires) LPG/diesel/gasoline engines, solid tires for smooth indoor floors Counterbalance forklifts with cushion tires

Class V Internal Combustion Trucks (Pneumatic Tires) Air-filled tires for indoor/outdoor use, better traction on uneven surfaces Counterbalance forklifts with pneumatic tires

Class VI Electric & IC Engine Tractors Designed for towing rather than lifting Tow tractors, tuggers (airports, assembly lines)

Class VII Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks Large pneumatic tires, 4WD, for outdoor uneven terrain Telescoping boom forklifts, truck-mounted forklifts

Common Forklift Types by Function

Beyond the OSHA classes, forklifts are often referred to by their specific type and function:


Type Description

Counterbalance Forklift Most common type; uses a rear counterweight to balance the load at the front

Reach Truck Forks extend forward; ideal for narrow aisles and high stacking

Order Picker Operator elevates with the forks; used for picking individual items from high racks

Pallet Jack Manual or electric; moves pallets horizontally over short distances

Telehandler (Boom Forklift) Telescoping boom for extended reach; Class VII rough terrain

The bottom line: OSHA classifies forklifts into seven classes based on power source, tire type, and application. Class I–III are electric; Class IV–V are internal combustion; Class VI is for towing; and Class VII is for rough terrain. Choosing the right class depends on your operating environment, load requirements, and facility layout.

Keywords：
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