There are 7 various classifications of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classifications are divided into the type of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and finally 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 forklift classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines consist of electric motor trucks that use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would comprise all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Typically, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, different working environments rely on different classes. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various kinds of engines and tires are made for particular applications. In order to pick the right forklift to suit all your needs and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to determine exactly what you would require from your particular model. By talking to some reputable dealers and taking time to explore your alternatives, you could choose the appropriate machinery.