The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of lift trucks. These classes are divided into the type of work environment; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough 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. Here are the following forklift classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that utilize either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
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, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will include 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 units with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models 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 units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different types of working atmospheres rely on various classifications in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of tires and engines are made for particular operation. To be able to choose the best forklift to fulfill your tasks and to meet your needs, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your specific unit. By talking to some reputable dealers and making time to investigate your alternatives, you would be able to choose the appropriate machine.