There are 7 different classes of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are broken down by the kind of work environment; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough 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. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these equipment include electric motor trucks which use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down types.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
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 Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular class is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, various working environments rely on different classes. Forklifts are rather particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for specific applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to suit all your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine precisely what you would need from your particular model. By talking to a few respectable dealers and making time to explore your choices, you could select the right machinery.