The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classes are broken down by the type of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 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 models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will comprise all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This category 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 Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
The different classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working environments rely on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. In order to select the right forklift to meet your needs and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to determine precisely what you will need from your particular unit. By speaking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate your options, you will be able to choose the appropriate machine.