There are 7 different classifications of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are broken down by the kind of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classes of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery consist of electric motor trucks that utilize either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 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: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
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 use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
The various categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working atmospheres rely on different categories in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for specific applications. In order to choose the best forklift to complete your tasks and to meet your requirements, do some research to determine exactly what you will need from your specific model. By speaking to some respectable dealers and making time to explore all your alternatives, you can select the right machine.