The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These classifications are divided into the kind of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machines consist of electric motor trucks that utilize either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will comprise all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 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 outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working environments rely on various categories. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various kinds of tires and engines are made for specific applications. In order to select the best forklift to fulfill your jobs and to suit your requirements, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific model. By talking to some respectable dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you could choose the appropriate equipment.