There are 7 various classes of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classifications are broken down by 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 finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines comprise electric motor trucks that utilize 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 units.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck would consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific category is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working environments depend on different classifications. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. To be able to select the right forklift to fulfill your jobs and to meet all your requirements, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your particular unit. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your alternatives, you will be able to pick the appropriate machine.