There are 7 different classes of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are broken down by the kind of work setting; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: these equipment include electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include 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. Usually, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Normally, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific 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 almost exclusively used outside and powered by diesel engines.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different types of working environments depend on different categories in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for particular applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to suit all your requirements and to complete your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you would need from your particular unit. By talking to several respectable dealers and making time to explore all your options, you could choose the appropriate machine.