The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These categories are divided into the type of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
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 models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, different working environments rely on different classes. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various kinds of tires and engines are made for particular applications. To be able to pick the right forklift to meet your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By speaking to a few reputable dealers and taking time to investigate all your alternatives, you could select the appropriate machinery.