There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are broken down by the kind of work environment; outdoors, indoors, rough or smooth surfaces and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with 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: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down units.
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 models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will include all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these models are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is designed and engineered to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain units with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
The different categories of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working atmospheres depend on different classifications in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their loading and lifting capacities. Their various types of engines and tires are made for specific operation. To be able to choose the right forklift to complete your tasks and to suit your needs, do some research to know exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By speaking to a few respectable dealers and taking time to explore all your choices, you would be able to select the right machine.