The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classifications are divided into the type of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: these equipment consist of electric motor trucks that use either 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: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
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 models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outside and powered by diesel engines.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working atmospheres rely on different classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are quite particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. To be able to select the best forklift to suit all your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your particular model. By talking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to explore your options, you could choose the appropriate equipment.