The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of forklifts. These classes 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 finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classes of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that utilize either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will include all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Normally, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to 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 units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outside and powered by diesel engines.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working atmospheres rely on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. In order to choose the best forklift to suit your needs and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you will require from your specific model. By speaking to several respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your alternatives, you could choose the right equipment.