There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classes are broken down by the kind of work setting; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classifications of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery consist of 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 unit.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would comprise all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, 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 units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow loads 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 categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, different working atmospheres depend on different classes. Forklifts are quite specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of tires and engines are made for particular applications. To be able to pick the best forklift to complete your jobs and to meet your needs, do some research to know precisely what you will need from your specific unit. By talking to a few trustworthy dealers and making time to explore your choices, you can choose the appropriate equipment.