A Class 4 forklift is an internal combustion engine (ICE) truck with cushion (solid) tires. It is one of the seven classifications for powered industrial trucks established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Industrial Truck Association (ITA).
Key Characteristics
Class 4 forklifts are defined by the following features:
Power Source: They are powered by an internal combustion engine that runs on gasoline, diesel, liquid petroleum (LP) gas, or compressed natural gas (CNG).
Tires: They are equipped with cushion (solid) tires. These tires are puncture-proof and provide a smooth ride on flat, indoor surfaces.
Operator Position: The operator sits on the truck.
Counterbalance: They are counterbalanced, meaning the weight at the back of the truck offsets the load in the front to provide stability.
Typical Applications
Due to their solid tires, Class 4 forklifts are designed primarily for indoor use on smooth, flat surfaces like concrete or asphalt. Common applications include:
Warehouses and distribution centers
Loading docks
Moving goods from docks to storage areas
Benefits
High Performance: Internal combustion engines provide reliable power for heavy loads and demanding applications.
Durability: Cushion tires are puncture-proof, reducing the risk of flats.
Smooth Ride: Solid tires provide a stable ride on smooth indoor surfaces.
How Class 4 Differs from Class 5
The primary difference between Class 4 and Class 5 forklifts is the type of tires:
Class 4 forklifts have cushion (solid) tires and are designed for smooth, indoor surfaces.
Class 5 forklifts have pneumatic (air-filled) tires and are designed for outdoor use on rough or uneven terrain, though they can also be used indoors.
Another way to distinguish them is that Class 4 forklifts should only operate on hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt, while Class 5 forklifts can handle flat dirt, gravel, and hardtop surfaces.