How do you determine whether a manual pallet truck or an electric pallet truck is the better choice for your needs? The primary function of any pallet truck is to lift, lower, and transport pallets from one location to another. Manual pallet trucks are ideal for smaller loads, while electric pallet trucks are better suited for heavier loads and more frequent use. Explore the characteristics of each type of pallet truck below.
WHAT IS A PALLET TRUCK, AND HOW DO ELECTRIC AND MANUAL VERSIONS DIFFER?
A pallet truck is a device used for lifting and moving pallets. Manual pallet trucks are hand-powered, ideal for smaller loads and shorter distances. In contrast, electric pallet trucks are power-driven, making them suitable for heavier loads and longer distances. Neither type requires a license to operate.
HOW TO USE A MANUAL PALLET TRUCK:
1. Push the lever down to lift the pallet.
2. Move the towbar up and down to raise the fork.
3. Oil is drawn into the lifting cylinder, elevating the fork.
4. Depress the towbar to lift further.
5. Repeat the process to lift the fork higher.
6. Set the lever to the middle position for transport.
7. Pull the lever up to slowly lower the pallet.
8. Transport the pallet to its destination.
HOW TO USE AN ELECTRIC PALLET TRUCK:
1. Switch on the pallet truck and check the battery charge.
2. Verify safety features (emergency stop, overload sensors).
3. Adjust the speed for maneuvering.
4. Navigate using power steering.
5. Use push-button controls to lift and lower forks.
6. Adjust the height or side shift as needed.
7. Transport the pallet to its destination.
8. Turn off the pallet truck after use.
For electric pallet trucks, it's crucial to monitor the battery charge. If the battery runs out unexpectedly, you may be able to operate the truck manually, provided it is safe to do so. Otherwise, you may need another truck to transport it to the charging station.
PALLET TRUCK USE
Pallet trucks, both manual and electric, are widely used in warehouses, large retail stores, and factories.
For lighter pallets or infrequent use, a manual pallet truck is adequate. However, if you need to lift heavy loads or frequently transport items, a forklift truck may be a better option.
MANUAL PALLET TRUCK USE
Manual pallet trucks require more physical effort than their electric counterparts. They are best suited for short distances and lighter loads due to the strength needed to operate them.
ELECTRIC PALLET TRUCK USE
Electric pallet trucks are ideal for heavier loads and frequent use. They are generally preferred for their efficiency and ease of operation.
PALLET TRUCK SIZE
There is generally little difference in size between manual and electric pallet trucks. The standard sizes for pallet trucks are as follows:
- UK Pallets:
- Typically 680 mm wide and 1150 mm long
- Suitable for pallets measuring 1000 mm x 1200 mm
- Commonly used in the UK
- Euro Pallets:
- Typically 540 mm wide and 1150 mm long
- Suitable for pallets measuring 800 mm x 1200 mm
- Commonly used for trading or importing goods from the EU
- Printer Pallets:
- Typically 450 mm wide and 800 mm long
- Suitable for pallets measuring 1200 mm x 1000 mm or smaller
- Often used by small businesses or for lighter loads
MANUAL VS ELECTRIC PALLET TRUCK WEIGHT
While there is no standard weight for pallet trucks, there are notable differences between manual and electric models.
Manual pallet trucks are generally smaller and lighter, typically weighing between 70 kg and 600 kg.
MANUAL VS ELECTRIC PALLET TRUCK CAPACITY
Standard pallet trucks have a weight capacity of 1500 kg to 2000 kg. However, there are some heavy-duty models designed to carry up to 3000 kg.
Manual pallet trucks typically carry between 500 kg to 1500 kg less than the automatic version. Whereas, the average electric pallet truck capacity is 1500 kg or more.
The weight capacities we supply are 1500 kg, 1800 kg and 2000 kg.
