The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various classes of lift trucks. These classifications 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 standing or sitting down; and finally the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will comprise all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to 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 classifications were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, different working environments depend on various categories. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various kinds of engines and tires are made for particular applications. To be able to select the best forklift to meet all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to determine exactly what you would need from your specific model. By talking to a few reputable dealers and making time to explore all your alternatives, you could choose the appropriate equipment.