There are 7 different classes of lift trucks as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classifications are divided into the type of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories 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 which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider type.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider units 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: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 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.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, different working atmospheres depend on various categories. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to choose the right forklift to suit all your needs and to fulfill your jobs, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By speaking to a few reputable dealers and taking time to investigate all your options, you can choose the appropriate machine.