There are 7 different classifications of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classifications are broken down by the type of work environment; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck 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 consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
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 models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Typically, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific category is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, different working environments rely on various classes. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different types of engines and tires are made for particular applications. In order to pick the right forklift to fulfill your jobs and to suit all your requirements, do some research to know exactly what you would require from your specific unit. By talking to several respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your alternatives, you could pick the appropriate machine.