The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classifications are divided into the type of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down types.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would comprise all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Normally, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks would consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
The various classifications of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working atmospheres depend on different classes in order to get their work done. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. To be able to choose the best forklift to suit all your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to know exactly what you would need from your particular model. By talking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to investigate your alternatives, you can choose the right machinery.