The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various classes of forklifts. These categories are divided into the kind of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the type of engine; and lastly the characteristics of the machine, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machines include electric motor trucks which use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts 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 models.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts consist of electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric units. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work completed, various working atmospheres depend on different classifications. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different types of engines and tires are made for particular applications. To be able to choose the right forklift to complete your jobs and to meet your needs, do some research to know exactly what you would require from your particular model. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore all your options, you would be able to select the appropriate machinery.