There are 7 different classifications of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are divided into the type of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and lastly the equipment characteristics, 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 forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with 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: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
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, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will consist of all hand/rider trucks electric and fuel based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC units. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on units can tow at least 1000 pounds. This category is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, various working atmospheres rely on different classifications. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to pick the best forklift to suit your needs and to complete your jobs, do some research to determine exactly what you would require from your specific model. By speaking to a few reputable dealers and making time to explore all your options, you can select the appropriate equipment.