The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These categories are divided into the kind of work setting; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery comprise electric motor trucks which use 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: 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 lift truck would consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, 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 models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working atmospheres depend on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to select the best forklift to meet all your requirements and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to determine precisely what you will require from your specific model. By talking to several reputable dealers and taking time to explore your choices, you can choose the appropriate equipment.