The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classifications are broken down by the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
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.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Various types of working environments depend on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. In order to select the best forklift to complete your tasks and to meet all your needs, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your specific unit. By speaking to several respectable dealers and making time to investigate all your alternatives, you can choose the right machinery.