There are 7 different classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These categories are broken down by the type of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery comprise electric motor trucks that use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks comprise electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific class is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, different working atmospheres rely on different categories. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to meet all your requirements and to complete your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your specific model. By talking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore your alternatives, you can pick the appropriate equipment.