The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These categories are broken down by the kind of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines consist of electric motor trucks which 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 units.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outside and powered by diesel engines.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, different working atmospheres rely on various classes. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for specific applications. To be able to select the best forklift to complete your tasks and to suit all your requirements, do some research to determine exactly what you will need from your specific model. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and making time to explore all your choices, you will be able to pick the appropriate machine.