There are 7 various classifications of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are divided into the type of work setting; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
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 suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various kinds of working environments rely on various categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. In order to select the best forklift to meet your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you will need from your particular model. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you could select the right equipment.