There are 7 different classifications of lift trucks as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are broken down by the kind of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck would include all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Usually, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, different working atmospheres depend on various classes. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. To be able to pick the right forklift to fulfill your tasks and to meet all your needs, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your particular model. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore your choices, you could choose the appropriate equipment.