The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These categories are divided into the kind of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
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 units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would comprise all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Usually, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific category is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The various categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different types of working atmospheres depend on various classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to select the right forklift to suit all your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you would require from your particular unit. By speaking to some reputable dealers and making time to investigate your choices, you could select the appropriate machinery.