There are 7 different classes of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classes are divided into the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down types.
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 consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work completed, various working environments rely on various classes. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various kinds of engines and tires are made for specific applications. In order to pick the right forklift to suit your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your particular unit. By speaking to some reputable dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you will be able to pick the right equipment.