The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These classifications are divided into the type of work setting; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classes of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that 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: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks consist of electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various types of working environments depend on different categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for particular operation. In order to pick the right forklift to suit all your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By speaking to some trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore all your choices, you could select the appropriate machinery.