The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various classes of lift trucks. These categories are divided into the kind of work setting; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: these equipment include electric motor trucks which utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
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 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 forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific category is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
These classes were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, different working atmospheres depend on various classes. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. In order to select the best forklift to suit all your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your particular model. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to investigate all your choices, you can choose the right machine.