There are 7 various classes of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classes are broken down by the type of work setting; 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 characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
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 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Usually, 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 internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, various working atmospheres rely on different classes. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to select the best forklift to meet your requirements and to complete your jobs, do some research to determine exactly what you would need from your specific model. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore your alternatives, you can select the right machine.