The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These categories are divided into the kind of work setting; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines include electric motor trucks which use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 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 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck would consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric 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. Usually, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working atmospheres depend on different categories in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. In order to choose the best forklift to meet all your needs and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you will require from your particular model. By talking to several reputable dealers and making time to explore all your choices, you would be able to choose the appropriate machinery.