The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These classes are broken down by the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machines include electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck would consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Normally, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 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 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different types of working environments depend on various classifications in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to choose the best forklift to meet your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you will require from your particular model. By speaking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate all your options, you could select the right machinery.