The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These categories are broken down by the type of work setting; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery comprise 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 that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
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 consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will include all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either IC powered or electric units. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks 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 large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, different working environments depend on different classes. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different types of engines and tires are made for specific operation. To be able to pick the right forklift to suit all your needs and to fulfill your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your particular model. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to explore all your alternatives, you can choose the appropriate machine.