The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These categories are divided into the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled 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: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift 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 models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Usually, these models are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different types of working atmospheres depend on various classifications in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to choose the right forklift to meet your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your specific unit. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and making time to explore your choices, you could select the right machinery.