There are 7 different classes of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classes are divided into the type of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These classes were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, various working atmospheres depend on different classifications. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for specific applications. To be able to select the best forklift to meet all your needs and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your particular unit. By talking to some trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate all your choices, you would be able to choose the appropriate machinery.