The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classes are divided into the kind of work environment; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would 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 forklifts with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various types of working environments rely on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for particular applications. In order to select the best forklift to fulfill your jobs and to suit all your needs, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By speaking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to explore all your choices, you can choose the right equipment.