There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are divided into the kind of work setting; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces 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. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machinery comprise electric motor trucks which use either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks 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 units.
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.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 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 suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Usually, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than 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 outside.
These classes were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, different working environments rely on different categories. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for specific operation. In order to choose the right forklift to suit your requirements and to complete your jobs, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your particular unit. By talking to some reputable dealers and making time to explore all your alternatives, you would be able to select the right machinery.