There are 7 various classes of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classes are broken down by the kind of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classes of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines consist of electric motor trucks which use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
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 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Various kinds of working atmospheres depend on various categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to select the right forklift to meet all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to determine precisely what you would need from your specific unit. By talking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your options, you can select the appropriate machine.