The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These classes are broken down by the kind 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 characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift categories:
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 which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down types.
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 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
These classes were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, different working atmospheres rely on various categories. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various kinds of tires and engines are made for particular operation. In order to select the best forklift to complete your jobs and to meet all your requirements, do some research to know exactly what you will need from your specific unit. By talking to several respectable dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you could choose the appropriate machinery.