Pallet Jack: Everything You Need to Know and More!

Today we are going to take a look at the pallet jack.

We have over 40 years in the material handling industry and we would love to share our expertise and experience with you.

This post will explain what it is, the different types available and how it can help you improve efficiency in your business. So, let's get started.

A pallet jack is a very basic type of forklift

What Is a Pallet Jack?

A pallet jack is your most basic type of forklift. It is essentially a trolley with wheels designed to lift and transport heavy pallets. It has tapered forks that fit into the slots of a pallet.

The forks are then moved manually with a pump handle or electrically to raise and lower your load. The pallet jack is steered by a lever that acts like a "tiller", as well as a pump handle that is used to raise the jack.

A pallet jack can be either pushed or pulled, however, it is generally safer to push it.

Pallet jacks are also commonly referred to as pallet trucks, pallet pumps, power jacks, walkies, pump trucks, scooters, dogs, and jiggers.

Check out this Hancha pallet jack in action

Different Types of Pallet Jacks

Manual Pallet Jacks: Manual pallet jacks are hand-powered and are used to transport light to medium-sized loads over a relatively short distance.

Electric Pallet Jacks: Electric pallet jacks have an electric motor that make lifting and moving much easier. They can be used to move heavier loads and stacked pallets.

Lithium-Ion Pallet Jacks: A lithium-ion pallet jack is an electric pallet jack that is powered by a lithium-ion battery instead of a lead-acid battery. Lithium-ion batteries charge faster and their charge lasts longer. They also have a longer lifespan than a traditional battery.

A Lithium-ion powered pallet jack is easy to charge and maintain

Light Duty Pallet Jack: This type of pallet jack is great if you are moving light loads over short distances. You can also get ones with a compact body that make them even easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

Heavy Duty Pallet Jack: If you need to move heavy loads over greater distances, then you should opt for a heavy duty pallet jack.

Rough Terrain Pallet Jack: A rough terrain pallet jack is designed to be used on uneven ground. They will have a heavy-duty frame and pneumatic tires that can accommodate for rough surfaces.

Rider Pallet Jack: Some models of pallet jacks include a platform that you can ride on. These types of pallet jacks usually more durable and have higher lifting capacities.

Rider pallet jacks have a platform for the operator to stand on

How to Choose the Best Pallet Jack for Your Needs

There are a number of different factors that you should consider when choosing a pallet jack, these include:

1. Capacity:

One of the most important features to look at is the capacity. Capacity means how much weight your pallet jack can lift. Pallet jack capacities can range anywhere from 3,000 to 8,000 lbs.

Before you buy a pallet jack, make sure that you calculate the weight of goods that you are going to need it to lift and transport. You don't want to purchase a pallet jack that can't handle the loads that you require as it could cause a serious safety hazard for your operators and increase the risk of it breaking down.

2. Lift Height:

You will also want to check the lift height of the pallet jack. Lift heights can range anywhere from 3 inches to 8 feet off the ground.

If you need to lift your pallets as well as move them, then you should choose one that can accommodate the lift heights that you require.

You should also check the rated capacities of the pallet truck for the various lift heights to make sure that they are sufficient as well. If your pallet jack's load exceeds its capacity for the height you need, then it may tip over causing damage to your goods and possible injury to your operator and surrounding people.

If you need to lift pallets, choose one that can accommodate the lift heights that you need

3. Fork Length:

Most pallets in North America are 40" x 48", so most pallet trucks come with 48" forks. However, there are pallets of different sizes. If the pallets that you will be using are smaller or larger than the average 48", then you should purchase a pallet truck with the appropriate size of forks.

If your forks are too long, then you will find it really difficult to maneuver your loads where they need to go. If your forks are too short, then they may not be able to support your load, making them unstable and unsafe to move.

4. Weight:

You should also take into consideration the overall weight of the pallet jack, especially if you are going to be using it over surfaces that have weight restrictions such as container floors or lift gates. You need to add the base weight to the weight of the loads you will be carrying to determine if it can be used on these specific surfaces.

On the other hand, a heavier unit can also be a good indicator of the quality of the equipment. Heavier equipment tends to last longer and is usually more durable.

Heavier pallet jacks are usually more durable

Where Can You Use a Pallet Jack?

Pallet jacks are great to use in many different applications such as:

• Warehouses

• Retail locations

• Stockrooms

• Any location where pallets are used

NEED HELP CHOOSING THE BEST Pallet Jack? CONTACT Forklift Hub!

Whether you are in the market for a new or used pallet jack, talk to the professionals at Forklift Hub. Selecting the best forklift for your particular situation isn’t easy, but the experts at Forklift Hub can help.

They will listen to your needs and match you up with the perfect forklift to meet your requirements and your budget.

Forklift Hub also offers the best warranties in the business for both new and used forklifts. Therefore, you can purchase with confidence! Contact us today!