There are 7 various classes of lift trucks as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These categories are divided into the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; 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. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
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 consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific class is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, different working atmospheres depend on different classes. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for particular applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to fulfill your tasks and to meet your needs, do some research to determine exactly what you will need from your particular unit. By talking to a few trustworthy dealers and making time to explore all your options, you can choose the right equipment.