The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 different classes of lift trucks. These classifications are broken down by the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines include electric motor trucks which utilize either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
The various classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different types of working environments depend on various classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various kinds of tires and engines are made for particular applications. In order to choose the right forklift to suit all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you will require from your particular model. By speaking to several reputable dealers and making time to explore all your options, you could select the appropriate equipment.