The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes 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 kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 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 used outside.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working atmospheres depend on various classes. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different types of tires and engines are made for specific operation. To be able to select the best forklift to fulfill your jobs and to meet all your needs, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific model. By talking to some respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your options, you can choose the right machine.