The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These categories are divided into the kind of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines comprise electric motor trucks which use either air filled or pneumatic 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: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would comprise all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific category is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working environments rely on different classifications in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to complete your jobs and to suit all your requirements, do some research to know precisely what you will need from your specific unit. By speaking to some trustworthy dealers and making time to explore your choices, you will be able to choose the right equipment.