The Industrial Truck Association or ITA has determined 7 various categories of lift trucks. These classes are broken down by the type of work setting; indoors, outdoors, smooth or rough surfaces and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and lastly the machine characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and type of tire. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following lift truck classifications:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider models.
Lift Code 4: 3-Wheel electric sit-down models.
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 solid tires and electric motors.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The Internal Combustion or IC models make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Generally, they are suitable for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires. Usually, these models are ideal for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Category 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric units. These ride-on models can tow at least 1000 lbs. This particular category is designed and engineered to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This category is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Class 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 completed, various working environments rely on various classes. Forklifts are rather specific in their loading and lifting capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for specific operation. To be able to choose the best forklift to fulfill your jobs and to meet your requirements, do some research to know precisely what you will need from your specific unit. By speaking to several reputable dealers and taking time to investigate all your choices, you can pick the appropriate equipment.