6 Steps for Getting the Best Electric Pallet Jack for Your Business
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If you are in the market for the best electric pallet jack, here are the steps you should take. Click on each one to learn more.
If you would like help choosing the right electric pallet jack for your needs, contact us.
6 Steps to Get the Perfect Electric Pallet Jack
1. Assess Your Needs.
Think through what you need in an electric pallet jack such as weight capacity.
The first thing you should do when choosing an electric pallet jack for your business is to get a good understanding of your specific requirements. You should consider the following factors before making your decision:
a) Weight capacity:
Figure out how heavy of loads you will need to carry and make sure you choose a model that can handle that weight capacity.
b) Frequency of use:
If you are going to be using your pallet jack for consecutive shifts, then you should look for a fast-charging model or one that offers opportunity charging like a lithium-ion battery.
c) Operational environment:
If you need to use your pallet jack in extreme temperatures such as a refrigerated area, then you should consider a lithium-ion battery that can handle cold temperatures. Also, a lithium-ion battery can handle wet conditions.
A load backrest can keep your load from falling backwards.
d) Safety features:
If you are going to be using it on slopes, make sure it has an anti-slip feature or a load backrest to prevent the load from sliding backwards.
e) Width:
Make sure that the electric pallet jack is the right size for your facility. If you have narrow aisles or tight spaces, you need to choose one that is going to be able to function in the area you have.
f) Ergonomic design:
Look for a pallet truck that is ergonomically designed. Evaluate the ease of use and ergonomics of the controls. Check if the handles and controls are intuitive and comfortable for operators. Ergonomic design is crucial for minimizing operator fatigue during extended use.
2. Research and Compare Models.
Explore various electric pallet jacks available in the market. Look for reputable brands and assess how well each model aligns with your business requirements.
Here are some popular electric pallet jack models that are available.
a) Electric Lithium-ion Light Duty Walkie Pallet Jack: 4,000lbs
This electric pallet jack combines the versatility of lithium-ion power with permanent magnet drive technology to bring you a pallet jack that is more reliable, safer and will cost you less to operate.
It features:
Compact Control Head - All of the operational inputs can be completed with one hand.
Release, emergency and reverse braking,
Anti-rollback functions
External Charger
After a certain period of not using your pallet jack, it will automatically hibernate to protect the battery and prolong its operational time.
b) Electric Lithium-ion Light Duty Walkie Pallet Jack 3,000lbs
This lithium-ion mini walkie pallet jack from Hangcha is equipped with rapid/opportunity charging.
This means that it will run longer than comparable lead-acid-powered pallet jacks.
It features:
Easy-to-remove battery
Built-in charger for convenient charging
Upright tiller running function so you can easily work in confined spaces like containers
It is designed with a compact control head that lets you complete all operational inputs with one hand.
c) Electric Lithium-ion Walkie Straddle Stacker 2,500lbs
Electric Lithium-ion Walkie Straddle Stacker's mast is made of H-shaped steel channels to give you better stability and rigidity.
It features:
Low noise and vibration hydraulic power unit for stable and reliable mast movement.
Stepless speed regulation for more accurate lifting and lowering
Creep speed driving function gives you incredible load-handling control
Its compact design and large rounded corners make it perfect to use in narrow spaces.
3. Decide Between Lithium-Ion and Lead-Acid Batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries charge faster and last longer than lead-acid.
When choosing an electric pallet jack you will need to decide which type of battery you want. There are two choices: lithium-ion and lead-acid. Here is a brief comparison of the two types:
a) Charging Time
Lead-acid batteries: Lead-acid batteries typically take longer to charge, usually anywhere from 5 to 10 hours plus they need time to cool down after they charge. They might also experience decreased performance if not fully charged or if subjected to incomplete charging cycles.
Lithium-ion batteries: Lithium-ion batteries give you much faster charging times. They can reach full charge in a fraction of the time required for lead-acid batteries.
For example, Hangcha's lithium-ion batteries can be fully charged in 2 hours. In addition, they can be charged partially without affecting the battery life. This means you can do opportunity charging, partially charging your battery during breaks, lunch hours and other free time.
b) Lifespan and Cycle Life
Lead-acid batteries: This type of battery generally has a shorter lifespan and a limited number of charging cycles compared to lithium-ion batteries. They may need replacement more frequently.
Lithium-ion batteries: They have a longer lifespan and a higher number of charge cycles, which translates to a more extended operational life before requiring replacement.
c) Energy Density
Lead-acid batteries: Lead-acid batteries have a lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries. This means they have a shorter runtime per charge, so they need to be charged more often. They are also bulkier and heavier for the same energy capacity.
Lithium-ion batteries: Lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density, which means they give you longer runtimes and require less space and weight for equivalent power output so they are much easier to work with.
4. Consider Maintenance and Support.
Lithium-ion electric pallet jacks are easier to maintain.
Assess the ease of maintenance and availability of support services. Opt for models that come with warranties and have accessible parts and service centres to ensure timely repairs or maintenance. You should also ask about the recommended maintenance schedule for the equipment.
When considering the ease of maintenance, the battery you choose also will play an important part.
Lead-acid batteries: These require regular maintenance, including the following:
Topping off electrolyte levels
Periodic cleaning
They are also more prone to sulfation and require proper ventilation during charging.
Lithium-ion batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are generally maintenance-free, requiring minimal upkeep and no electrolyte refills. In addition, they also have no specific ventilation needs during charging.
5. Demo and Test.
Test out the electric pallet jack before buying it.
If possible, request a demo or trial period for the electric pallet jacks you're considering. This hands-on experience will help you understand how well the equipment performs in your specific work environment. Here are some tips for your demo.
a) Get an operator's opinion:
It would be a good idea to take one of your operators with you to the demo. Their firsthand experience and opinions regarding usability, comfort, and performance will be invaluable in helping you make an informed decision.
b) Lifting and lowering:
Test the lifting and lowering capabilities of the pallet jack with various loads. Assess how smoothly it lifts and lowers the pallets and if it maintains stability throughout the process. Check if it meets your business's load-handling requirements.
c) Maneuverability:
Test the handling and maneuverability of the pallet jack. Check how smoothly it moves in different directions, turns in tight spaces, and handles various loads. Ensure it aligns with your operational needs and workspace constraints.
d) Consider renting:
If a trial period isn't possible, you could consider renting various electric pallet jacks before buying to see which one is your best option.
6. Do a Cost Analysis.
Figure out the totla cost of ownership.
Do a cost analysis by comparing the following factors before making your final decision:
Initial purchase cost
Maintenance expenses
Potential return on investment (ROI)
Reduced labour cost as a result of more efficient equipment
Look beyond the upfront price tag and consider long-term savings from improved efficiency and increased productivity.
Also, consider the cost difference between lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries.
Lead-acid batteries: Initially, it will cost you less to purchase a lead-acid battery pallet jack compared to a lithium-ion one, but the total cost of ownership might be higher due to shorter lifespan and higher maintenance requirements.
Lithium-ion batteries: They usually have a higher initial investment but offer lower total cost of ownership over their extended lifespan due to reduced maintenance and replacement costs.
By following these steps, you can make a more informed decision about which electric pallet jack will best suit your business needs and provide the most value in the long run.
Additional reading
Here are some other posts that will help you learn more about electric pallet jacks.
Hangcha Pallet Jacks: Great Selection, Great Prices
The Best Hangcha Pallet Truck for You
Hangcha Forklift Models: Electric Forklifts, Pallet Jacks, and More
Need the Right Electric Pallet Jack? Contact Wayco
If you are looking for the perfect electric pallet jack, we can help.
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