The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These classifications are divided into the type of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery comprise electric motor trucks which 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: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular class is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 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 used outdoors.
These classes were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working environments depend on different categories. Forklifts are rather particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for specific operation. To be able to pick the best forklift to fulfill your jobs and to suit all your requirements, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific model. By talking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you would be able to pick the appropriate machine.