There are 7 different classes of forklifts as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These classes are broken down by the kind of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, indoors, outdoors and narrow aisle; by the kind of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and lastly the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the categories are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Below are the following forklift categories:
Class 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 lift trucks also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Category 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift will include all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the Internal Combustion or IC models. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Usually, they are great for indoor use and on hard surfaces.
Category 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is Internal Combustion Engine sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Usually, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: The Class 6 forklifts are either internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units have the capability to tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific class is engineered and designed to tow cargo as opposed to lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: This class is defined as rough terrain trucks with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively used outdoors and powered by diesel engines.
The various categories of lift trucks help to keep them separated and organized. Different kinds of working environments rely on various categories in order to get their work done. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different kinds of engines and tires are made for particular operation. To be able to choose the best forklift to complete your tasks and to suit your requirements, do some research to determine precisely what you would require from your particular unit. By speaking to a few trustworthy dealers and taking time to investigate your choices, you can choose the appropriate equipment.