The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classes are broken down by the type of work environment; indoors, outdoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classes of forklifts:
Class 1 Forklifts: these equipment consist of electric motor trucks which utilize either pneumatic or air filled 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 types.
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 units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks include electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 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 great for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires. Normally, these models are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This class is designed and engineered to tow loads rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
The various categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Various kinds of working atmospheres rely on different classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. In order to select the right forklift to suit your requirements and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine precisely what you would require from your particular model. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore your options, you would be able to pick the appropriate machinery.