The advantages of using pallet trucks (or pallet jacks) in warehouses are well-documented. They assist employees in moving and handling pallets. While helping them operate more safely in demanding working environments.
If your needs do not stretch to a forklift, and standard trucks and trolleys are not suitable for the job, a pallet truck could be the perfect investment for your warehouse. In this guide, we’ll explain why pallet trucks are best for warehouse workers, with details on where you can use them, the different types available, and how much they cost.
What Are Pallet Trucks?
As the name suggests, pallet trucks are heavy lifting equipment designed to manoeuvre loaded pallets in workplaces such as warehouses, distribution centres, delivery bays, and stockrooms. They feature two forks with rollers that slide underneath the pallet, an integrated jack to raise it from the floor, and a handle with hand-operated controls.
Manual Pallet Trucks vs Electric Pallet Trucks
There are two main types of pallet trucks – manual and electric. Manual pallet trucks require manual operation, while electric pallet trucks have powerful electric motors and hydraulics to make light work of heavy lifting jobs. Within the two categories, models include general-purpose pallet trucks, high-lift pallet trucks, heavy-duty pallet trucks, and weigh-scale pallet trucks to suit every workplace.
Both powered and manual pallet trucks come with a long list of benefits. The former is most suited to larger distribution centres where operatives transport heavy loads at high speed, the latter to smaller warehouses and factories.
Advantages Of Using Pallet Trucks In Warehouses
Pallet trucks lighten the load on warehouse workers. They are easy to use, without specialist training, and they speed up everyday distribution tasks without putting employees at risk of heavy lifting accidents. If you are thinking about buying a pallet truck, here are just a few of the benefits it will bring to your workplace:
Improved Efficiency & Workplace Productivity
With a manual or electric power truck at their disposal, your operatives will be more efficient and productive in the workplace. They can lift and shift pallets in seconds, load and unload delivery vehicles in minutes, and transport heavy loads from one side of the warehouse to the other in no time. All while saving valuable energy for their next task.
Saves Time
Pallet trucks enable warehouse operatives to work much faster than with a platform trolley or sack truck. Because they do not need to unload any pallets. They can help save a vast amount of time on everyday tasks. As every business owner knows, time is money!
Saves Money
Manual and powered pallet trucks are cheaper to buy than forklifts, and they require minimal ongoing maintenance. They are a cost-effective lifting solution for busy warehouse facilities that could save you money in the long run.
Reduced Risk Of Workplace Accidents & Injuries
According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), manual handling is a leading cause of workplace injuries in the UK. If your staff move heavy pallets regularly, they are at an increased risk. By providing your warehouse operatives with handling equipment such as a pallet truck, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries and keep your workforce safe.
Versatility
Pallet trucks are extremely versatile. They come in a variety of sizes and designs to suit all industries and working environments. While the average manual pallet truck can support loads of 2500kgs. Heavy-duty models can lift 5000kgs and more, so they meet a wide range of requirements.
How Much Do Pallet Trucks Cost?
Manual pallet trucks are relatively inexpensive compared to other lifting equipment, with basic models starting at just £285. Weigh-scale pallet trucks (equipped with scales to weigh loads) range from £675 to £1100. While high-lift pallet trucks start at around £580.
At the top end of the scale, powered pallet trucks start at around £1300. Premium models have ride-on capabilities such as driver platforms and powerful batteries to reduce downtime between charges.
With the right pallet truck, your operatives can fly across the warehouse floor. Performing heavy lifting and manual handling tasks at high speed – without risking injury. In short, they are an investment for employers and essential for employees, so why not upgrade your workplace today.
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