Different Types of Pallet Jacks

Table of Contents

Summary

One of the essential tools in your warehouse is the pallet jack. Having an efficient pallet jack can make all the difference between success and failure. There are many pallet jack types in the market today, with different functions for different needs. Here's a list of types of pallet jack.

Pallet Jack

Pallet jacks are typically powered by electricity or hydraulics. If you've ever driven a forklift, then you're familiar with a type of pallet jack that is powered by hydraulics. Another common type of pallet jack is the scissor-lift style, usually smaller and can be found in factories and warehouses worldwide.

Pallet jacks are available in different sizes to fit most application needs. Pallet jacks can also be used for other purposes besides just loading and unloading pallets. Some pallet jacks are used to lift certain types of furniture, like desks and cabinets.

Types of Pallet Jack

There are many different types of pallet jack. Pallet jacks come in three main varieties: standard, stacker, and straddle pallet jack. Wheeled pallet jacks are becoming more popular due to ease of use; however, there are still some applications where forklifts or other self-propelled devices may be the best option. There is also a fourth type called "manual lift."

Standard Pallet Jacks or Utility Pallet Jacks

The most common pallet jack has two front wheels and two rear caster wheels to move products around warehouses and manufacturing facilities. The small size makes it suitable for tight areas like aisles. Standard pallet jacks are available in manual and powered models and can also be electric or pneumatic (air-powered).

Pallet Stackers

Pallet stackers move stacks of pallets without having to lift each pallet individually. Pallet jacks with a long, narrow base raise the load vertically above ground level to place it on another column of pallets. Pallet jacks with a shorter, wider frame transport the pallets horizontally using fork-like extensions at the front and rear of their rails.

Pallet Straddles

A pallet straddle is like a horizontal forklift: It has one large lifting mechanism that travels up and down along rails on both sides of the Pallet Jack. The pallet straddle pallet jack is used for heavy loads in applications where the pallets are stored vertically, such as when they will be handled by forklifts or other powered equipment. Pallet straddles come in manual and electric models with load capacities ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 pounds (680 to 2,700 kg).

Manual Pallet Jacks

Manual pallet jacks need no external power source to operate—they use human power alone. They can move loads up and down stairs and over obstructions that stop powered pallet jacks in their tracks. They're often used in small spaces like aisles or loading docks. Pallet Jacks have a removable handle to be moved when they are not in use or used to transport equipment.

Manual pallet jacks are often called "lift trucks," which is the name that correctly describes powered pallet jacks rather than pallet jacks that rely on hand power alone for operation.

Pallets Jacks Types: Size, Material, and Cost

Now, with all this discussion of pallets, one wonders what exactly is wrong with pallets? The main problem with pallets (at least today) is their size; most pallets are too small for easy handling. Also, there's no standardization in construction among different pallet manufacturers; some pallet designs make it easier to assemble and repair pallets, while others make pallet handling more difficult.

Pallet Jacks come in a wide variety of sizes and prices. Pallet jacks can be purchased in capacities ranging from 1 to 5 tons (1 to 2,000 kg). Pallet jack capacity is measured by how many standard pallets they can lift at one time. Pallets come in several height standards: 48" (122 cm), 53" (134 cm), 60" (152 cm) or 72" (183 cm); the reverse side dimensions are all 4' by 8'.

In addition, Pallets can be made from almost any material; wooden Pallets are still very common and relatively inexpensive—as low as $5 per Pallet—although other Pallet materials are increasingly being used. Pallet Jacks are available in electric and hydraulic models with load capacities ranging from 2,000 to 5,500 pounds (907 to 2,495 kg).

The cost of Pallets varies widely depending on the material they're made from; Pallets can be purchased for as little as $5, or their prices can exceed $20,000. Pallet jacks range in price from about $400 to more than $3,000. Pallet jacks can be hired daily, which typically runs between 25 cents and 1 dollar per hour. Pallet jacks are also available for sale or rent at rental companies that specialize in equipment.

Why choose Pallet Jackson

Pallet Jackson is one of the leading providers of pallet jack parts that help customers maintain their productivity levels at all times. We remain true to our commitment to continuous development, research, and innovation through state-of-the-art technologies. 

Our warehouses are equipped with cutting-edge equipment capable of handling large volume production orders. We also have highly efficient sales teams, which leaves no stone unturned in giving our customers 100 percent satisfaction. 

Takeaways

• Pallet jacks are available in different sizes to fit most application needs.
• Manual pallet jacks need no external power source to operate—they use human power alone.
• The most common pallet jack has two front wheels and two rear caster wheels to move products around warehouses and manufacturing facilities.
• Pallet Jacks come in a wide variety of sizes and prices. Pallet jacks can be purchased in capacities ranging from 1 to 5 tons (1 to 2,000 kg).
• A pallet straddle is like a horizontal forklift: It has one large lifting mechanism that travels up and down along rails on both sides of the pallet jack.