There are 7 different classifications of lift trucks as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classifications 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 finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 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 units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These classes 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 different classifications. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for particular operation. To be able to choose the best forklift to complete your jobs and to suit your requirements, do some research to determine exactly what you would require from your specific unit. By speaking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate your choices, you could pick the right equipment.