There are 7 different classifications of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are broken down by the type of work setting; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machinery comprise electric motor trucks that use either air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider unit.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts comprise electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Usually, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are great 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 units. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular class 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 Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outside.
These classifications were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, different working environments depend on different classifications. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular operation. To be able to choose the right forklift to suit your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to know precisely what you would need from your specific unit. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate all your choices, you could choose the right machine.