The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 different classes of lift trucks. These classes are broken down by the kind of work environment; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also include 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider units.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: Class 3 lift trucks comprise hand/rider trucks with solid tires and electric hand trucks.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for use on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider units equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Typically, these units are ideal for working on rough surfaces outdoors or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular class is engineered and designed to tow loads rather than lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively used outdoors.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, various working environments depend on different classes. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to pick the right forklift to complete your jobs and to meet all your needs, do some research to determine exactly what you would need from your particular unit. By talking to some reputable dealers and making time to explore your alternatives, you can pick the right equipment.