The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 different categories of lift trucks. These categories are broken down by the kind of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is sitting down or standing; by the kind of engine; and finally the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following lift truck categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: these machines include electric motor trucks which utilize either pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
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.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: Class 3 forklifts consist of electric hand trucks and hand/rider trucks with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor application and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider models equipped with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these units are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 lift trucks are either IC powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific category 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 outside.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, various working atmospheres rely on different categories. Forklifts are quite particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various engine types and tire types are made for specific applications. In order to select the right forklift to complete your jobs and to suit your requirements, do some research to know precisely what you will need from your particular model. By speaking to some respectable dealers and making time to investigate all your options, you will be able to choose the appropriate equipment.