There are 7 various classes of lift trucks as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are broken down by the kind of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly 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 forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that 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.
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 electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, different working atmospheres rely on different classes. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. To be able to select the best forklift to complete your jobs and to meet all your needs, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your specific unit. By talking to some respectable dealers and making time to investigate all your alternatives, you can pick the appropriate machine.