The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These classes are divided into the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 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: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The various categories of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working environments rely on different classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of tires and engines are made for specific operation. To be able to choose the right forklift to meet all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to determine exactly what you would need from your particular unit. By talking to a few reputable dealers and taking time to investigate all your choices, you could pick the appropriate equipment.