The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of lift trucks. These classifications are divided into the kind of work setting; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines consist of electric motor trucks that utilize either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks include hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Typically, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
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 categories. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. In order to select the best forklift to suit all your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine precisely what you would need from your specific model. By talking to some respectable dealers and taking time to investigate your choices, you could choose the appropriate machinery.