The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 different classes of lift trucks. These categories are broken down by the kind of work environment; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled 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: 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 solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These classifications were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working environments depend on different classes. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. To be able to choose the right forklift to fulfill your tasks and to meet your requirements, do some research to determine precisely what you will require from your specific unit. By talking to a few respectable dealers and making time to explore your alternatives, you could choose the right machinery.