The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These classifications are broken down by the type of work environment; outdoors, indoors, 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 lift truck classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Normally, these models are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different types of working atmospheres rely on various classifications in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. In order to choose the best forklift to suit your requirements and to complete your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you would need from your specific unit. By talking to some trustworthy dealers and making time to explore your alternatives, you could select the appropriate machinery.