Pallet Jack FAQ's
Important Features to Consider Before Buying Your Pallet Jack
| Load Capacity | The load capacity of a pallet jack is arguably the most important factor to consider before buying. Capacities can range from anywhere between 4,500 lbs. and 5,500 lbs., with some industrial models designed to exceed even that. |
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| Fork Length | The most common size of pallet in North America is 40” x 48” and thus the average pallet jack has forks that are 48” long. However, if you plan to move smaller or larger pallets, you should purchase your pallet jack accordingly. |
| Lift Height | The lift height is the maximum distance a pallet can be raised up. These heights can range anywhere from a minimum of 3 inches up to almost 8 feet high at the maximum. |
| Wheel Selection | It’s important to choose a pallet jack with high quality wheels that are rated for the load capacity you desire. The other factor to consider is the impact the wheels will have on your warehouse floors. |
| Unit Weight | Before you even pick up a pallet, the jack has a base weight that should be factored into any maximum weight restrictions for certain surfaces, such as lift gates or container floors. Industrial and powered pallet jacks in general weigh more than standard light-duty models. |
Different Types of Pallet Jacks | |
| Manual | As the name suggests, these jacks are hand-powered and designed to lift light to medium size loads over short distances. They are by far the most common type of pallet jack in use today. |
| Powered | These jacks are motorized which assists the user in lifting and moving heavier and even stacked pallets. Some of them also contain a platform on the back for the user to ride on. They are occasionally referred to as electric pallet jacks, electric pallet trucks, power jacks, and electric walkies. |
A pallet jack is the most basic form of forklift and is intended to move pallets in a warehouse or trailer, especially when there is no forklift truck access or availability. There are many different types of pallet jacks such as Electric, Semi Electric, All Terrain, Walkie/Center Rider, Single Fork, Double Fork, Scissor, and even some that come with adjustable forks.
To move a load, engage the actuating lever in a neutral or middle position. This position disengages the lifting mechanism, making the handle free from hydraulic resistance, and the forks remain in the raised position. Lower the forks by pulling the actuating lever past the neutral position.
Yes, forklift and pallet jack training is required by OSHA. Without training, your employees aren't able to operate any pallet jack or other powered industrial truck.
Manual pallet jacks have a handle with a lever. Slide the prongs into position under a pallet and crank the handle up and down to lift the prongs off of the ground. Push or pull the pallet to your desired location and hold the lever down to lower the prongs back to the ground.
