The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These classifications are broken down by the type of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery consist of electric motor trucks which use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
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 solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Usually, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different types of working environments depend on various classifications in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to select the best forklift to meet all your requirements and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to determine precisely what you will need from your particular unit. By talking to a few reputable dealers and taking time to explore your options, you will be able to select the right machine.