The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These categories are broken down by the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally 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 classifications of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: these equipment include electric motor trucks which use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
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 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would include all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outside and powered by diesel engines.
The different classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different types of working atmospheres depend on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. In order to select the right forklift to meet your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you will need from your particular unit. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore your alternatives, you can choose the right equipment.