There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classes are broken down by the kind of work setting; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, 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: these machinery consist of 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: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
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 units, 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 lift truck would include all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
These classes were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work completed, various working environments depend on various categories. Forklifts are quite 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 suit your requirements and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you would need from your specific unit. By talking to a few reputable dealers and making time to investigate your options, you could pick the right machine.