There are 7 different classifications of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classes are broken down by the type of work setting; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces 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. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, 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 lift trucks comprise electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Typically, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular class is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These classifications were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work completed, various working atmospheres depend on various classes. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for particular operation. In order to pick the best forklift to fulfill your jobs and to meet your requirements, do some research to determine precisely what you will need from your particular model. By talking to some respectable dealers and making time to explore all your options, you would be able to select the right machinery.