The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These categories are divided into the kind of work setting; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classes of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
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 models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks include hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The various categories of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working atmospheres depend on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. In order to choose the right forklift to suit your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine precisely what you would need from your particular unit. By speaking to some trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate all your choices, you will be able to select the appropriate equipment.