There are 7 different classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classifications are divided into the type of work environment; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces 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 type of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
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.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This particular class is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different types of working environments depend on different categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. In order to pick the best forklift to meet all your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your particular unit. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to investigate your options, you can pick the right equipment.