There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These classifications are divided into the type of work environment; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery include electric motor trucks which utilize 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: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
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 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these models are great for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
These classifications were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, various working environments depend on different classifications. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for particular operation. To be able to pick the best forklift to meet your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to determine precisely what you will need from your particular model. By talking to several reputable dealers and taking time to investigate all your alternatives, you will be able to pick the appropriate equipment.