There are 7 various classes of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are divided into the type of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery consist of electric motor trucks which use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would include all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. 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 forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than 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 outdoors.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working environments depend on various classifications in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various kinds of engines and tires are made for specific operation. To be able to choose the best forklift to suit all your requirements and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to determine precisely what you would require from your particular model. By talking to several respectable dealers and making time to investigate all your choices, you would be able to pick the right equipment.