The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These classifications are divided into the type of work setting; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts 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 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.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck would comprise all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models 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: Class 6 forklifts would consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This particular category is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
These classifications were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working environments depend on different classifications. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. To be able to choose the right forklift to meet your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By talking to some respectable dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you could pick the appropriate machinery.