The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These classifications are divided into the kind of work environment; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these equipment include electric motor trucks that use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 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.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would include all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This particular category is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different types of working environments rely on various classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to choose the right forklift to fulfill your tasks and to meet your needs, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your particular model. By speaking to some respectable dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you would be able to select the right machinery.