There are 7 different classes of lift trucks as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These categories are broken down by the kind of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic 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 models.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
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 models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 pounds. This particular category is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Various kinds of working environments depend on various classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of tires and engines are made for specific operation. To be able to choose the right forklift to meet your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you will need from your specific model. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate your choices, you could pick the right machinery.