The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These classes are divided into the kind of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines consist of electric motor trucks that use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This particular class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Various kinds of working environments depend on different 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. To be able to choose the best forklift to meet your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you would require from your specific model. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and making time to investigate all your choices, you could choose the appropriate equipment.