There are 7 various classes of forklifts as determined by the ITA or Industrial Truck Association. These categories are divided into the type of work environment; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and finally the characteristics of the machinery, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following forklift categories:
Category 1 Forklifts: these machines include electric motor trucks which use 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 units.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire units, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 forklifts consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion units. These are sit down rider models with cushion tires. Generally, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor application.
Category 5 Forklifts: Internal Combustion sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 lift trucks. Usually, these models are great for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outside.
Category 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts would consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models could tow at least 1000 lbs. This category is designed and engineered to tow cargo rather than 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 used outdoors.
These classifications were designed to keep the huge field of lift trucks organized and separated. In order to get their work done, different working atmospheres rely on different classes. Forklifts are rather specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their various kinds of tires and engines are made for particular applications. To be able to select the best forklift to complete your jobs and to meet your requirements, do some research to know precisely what you would require from your specific unit. By talking to several reputable dealers and taking time to investigate your choices, you can pick the right machine.