There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These categories are divided into the kind of work setting; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type 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 classes of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic 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: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced 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.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 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 outdoors.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work completed, various working environments depend on various categories. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to select the best forklift to suit your needs and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your particular unit. By talking to some trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore your options, you could select the appropriate machinery.