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; 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 machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines comprise electric motor trucks that use 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: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down types.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts consist of electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Normally, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outside and powered by diesel engines.
These categories were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work completed, different working atmospheres depend on various classes. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to pick the right forklift to fulfill your jobs and to suit all your needs, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your specific model. By speaking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate all your options, you can pick the right equipment.