The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of lift trucks. These classifications are divided into the type of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these equipment consist of electric motor trucks which use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will include all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Typically, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
The different classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working atmospheres depend on various categories in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to select the best forklift to suit all your requirements and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to know precisely what you will require from your particular unit. By talking to a few respectable dealers and making time to investigate all your options, you can select the appropriate machine.