The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These classifications are divided into the kind of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift classifications:
Class 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 that 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 units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
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 fuel and electric 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. Normally, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 pounds. This particular category is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than 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 classes were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, various working environments rely on various categories. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to pick the best forklift to suit your needs and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific model. By speaking to some respectable dealers and taking time to explore your alternatives, you can select the appropriate machine.