The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classes are broken down by the type of work environment; 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 machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
The different classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working environments rely on various classifications in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. In order to choose the best forklift to meet all your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your specific unit. By speaking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate your choices, you could select the appropriate machine.