The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These categories are divided into the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that use either 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: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Normally, these models are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 lbs. 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 powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, various working environments depend on different classifications. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different types of tires and engines are made for specific operation. To be able to choose the right forklift to suit your requirements and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your particular unit. By speaking to a few reputable dealers and taking time to investigate all your alternatives, you can choose the right equipment.