Manual vs Powered Industrial Pallet Truck

Manual vs Powered Industrial Pallet Truck

You will have to decide if you prefer to go with a manual or a powered model. This will depend on your budget, on your operators and on the kind of actions you would like to do with your pallet truck.

The manual pallet truck. The manual model is usually used to lift between 5000 and 5500 lbs. The operator will use the handle to pump the forks and thus, lift the pallets. This model is used in many facilities as it is the less expensive type of pallet truck. It doesn’t require much maintenance as it has no electrical components. It can transport heavy pallets and manage them smoothly. You can also add some accessories depending on what your needs are. However, it may cause injuries to your operator as it requires physical forces. It is also more cumbersome to use and has a limited load capacity.

The powered industrial pallet truck. These models are electric versions of the classic manual pallet truck. It is usually more massive than the manual model and it has room for the operator who can manage the order-picking. These models can be used for light, medium as well as heavy loads. Therefore, you will be able to find a model that will fit your facility needs. Also, it doesn’t require a lot of physical efforts from your operator and will avoid injuries. The electric motor also allows the worker to travel longer distances with the pallets.

However, as you might expect it, its cost is much higher than the manual pallet truck. It will also requires more maintenance as some of its electrical pieces might need to be replaced, which can be costly and time-consuming. You might also have to train your workers before they will be able to operate it.