There are 7 different classes of lift trucks as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are broken down by the kind of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors 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. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: these equipment include electric motor trucks which utilize either air filled or pneumatic 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 units.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
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.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These classes were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, various working atmospheres rely on different categories. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to complete your jobs and to meet all your requirements, do some research to know precisely what you will require from your particular unit. By talking to some respectable dealers and making time to investigate your options, you would be able to choose the appropriate machinery.