There are 7 various classifications of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classifications are divided into the kind of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery comprise electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
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 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will include all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these models are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
The different classes of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various kinds of working environments depend on different categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of tires and engines are made for specific applications. To be able to select the best forklift to meet all your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your particular model. By speaking to some reputable dealers and making time to explore all your choices, you could select the right equipment.