The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of lift trucks. These categories are divided into the type of work setting; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications 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 consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
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 units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working environments rely on various classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for particular applications. In order to select the right forklift to meet all your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your particular model. By speaking to several respectable dealers and taking time to explore your choices, you can select the right machinery.