There are 7 various classifications of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classifications are divided into the type of work setting; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Some of the classes 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 include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would include all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various kinds of working environments depend on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for specific applications. In order to choose the right forklift to complete your jobs and to suit your requirements, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific model. By talking to a few reputable dealers and making time to investigate your alternatives, you will be able to select the appropriate equipment.