There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classifications are divided into the kind of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will comprise 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 forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific category is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different types of working environments rely on various categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to choose the right forklift to suit your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you would require from your particular model. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore your alternatives, you will be able to select the right equipment.