There are 7 various classifications of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classifications are broken down by the type of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors 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. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Category 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 units.
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 models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will include all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working atmospheres rely on different classifications. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to pick the best forklift to complete your tasks and to meet your requirements, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate all your choices, you could select the appropriate machine.