The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These categories are divided into the type of work environment; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and lastly 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 classifications of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: these equipment include electric motor trucks that use either 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: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down 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: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units 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 depend on various classifications in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. In order to select the right forklift to suit your requirements and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you would require from your specific model. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your options, you could choose the appropriate equipment.