The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These classes are divided into the type of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that utilize 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: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider models outfitted 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: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This particular class is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
The various classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different types of working environments depend on various classifications in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. In order to choose the best forklift to suit your requirements and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By talking to some reputable dealers and taking time to investigate your options, you could choose the appropriate equipment.