There are 7 various classifications of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are divided into the type of work setting; outdoors, indoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the kind of engine; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and kind of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following classes of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines comprise electric motor trucks that utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories which are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider types.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with solid tires and electric motors.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are suitable for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider models outfitted with pneumatic tires. Typically, these models are great 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 models have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. 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 Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outdoors.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, various working environments depend on different classes. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different kinds of tires and engines are made for particular operation. In order to select the best forklift to suit your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your particular unit. By speaking to several trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate your options, you could select the right machine.