The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These classifications are broken down by the kind of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery consist of electric motor trucks which utilize 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: 3-Wheel electric sit-down types.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, 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 lift truck would comprise all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 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.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular class is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various types of working environments rely on various classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. To be able to choose the right forklift to suit all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to determine precisely what you will need from your particular model. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate all your options, you can pick the right machinery.