The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These classes are divided into the kind of work setting; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these equipment consist of electric motor trucks which utilize either 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: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
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 units.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks comprise electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different types of working atmospheres rely on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of tires and engines are made for specific applications. In order to select the right forklift to complete your jobs and to meet your requirements, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your particular model. By talking to a few reputable dealers and making time to investigate all your alternatives, you can choose the appropriate machine.