The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These categories are divided into the kind of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and finally the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift categories:
Category 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 which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
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 models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will 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. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This class 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 Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, different working environments rely on various categories. Forklifts are rather particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different types of tires and engines are made for specific applications. In order to choose the right forklift to meet all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you would need from your particular model. By talking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your choices, you could select the right machinery.