The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These categories are divided into the type of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 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: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Normally, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Various types of working atmospheres rely on different categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to select the right forklift to meet all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By speaking to a few reputable dealers and making time to investigate all your alternatives, you could choose the appropriate equipment.