The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of lift trucks. These classes are broken down by the kind of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these equipment comprise electric motor trucks which use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 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: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The different classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working atmospheres rely on various classifications in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different types of tires and engines are made for specific operation. In order to choose the right forklift to fulfill your tasks and to suit your requirements, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your particular unit. By talking to a few reputable dealers and taking time to explore your choices, you would be able to select the right machinery.