There are 7 various classifications of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classifications are divided into the type of work environment; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: these equipment comprise electric motor trucks that use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
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.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts consist of electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work completed, different working atmospheres depend on various classifications. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. In order to pick the right forklift to fulfill your jobs and to meet your requirements, do some research to determine exactly what you would need from your specific model. By speaking to some reputable dealers and making time to investigate all your options, you could pick the right machinery.