The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These classifications are broken down by the kind of work environment; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Various types of working atmospheres rely on different classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various kinds of engines and tires are made for specific operation. In order to select the best forklift to meet all your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you would need from your specific unit. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore your choices, you could select the appropriate machinery.