The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These categories are divided into the type of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
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 units.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks consist of hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 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 class is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These classes were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work completed, different working atmospheres rely on different classes. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. In order to select the right forklift to suit all your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you would need from your specific unit. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and making time to explore all your options, you could select the right equipment.