The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various classes of lift trucks. These classifications are broken down by the type of work setting; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines include electric motor trucks which utilize either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
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 units.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric models. 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 Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
The different classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working environments rely on different categories 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 applications. In order to select the right forklift to fulfill your tasks and to suit all your requirements, do some research to determine precisely what you will need from your specific unit. By speaking to some trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore your choices, you would be able to select the appropriate machine.