There are 7 different classifications of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are broken down by the type of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
These classifications were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, different working environments rely on different categories. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to meet all your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your particular model. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate all your options, you can choose the right machinery.