There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are broken down by the type of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classes of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
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 units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck would consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various kinds of working environments depend on different classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for particular operation. In order to pick the right forklift to complete your jobs and to suit all your needs, do some research to know exactly what you will need from your specific model. By talking to a few trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate all your choices, you can choose the appropriate machinery.