A Guide to Electric pallet Jacks

13 May.,2024

 

A Guide to Electric pallet Jacks

April 14, 2022

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Electric Pallet Jack Benefits, Uses, and Best Practices

If you are involved in operating a warehouse or a retail space then you already know that pallet jacks are essential pieces of material handling equipment. These simple yet versatile machines go a long way in quickly and effortlessly moving around the palletized loads. Pallet jacks, also known as pallet trucks, or hand trucks are used to lift the loads just enough to clear the floor and move them around a warehouse or manufacturing area. Electric pallet jacks can be considered as the most basic form of forklifts. They come in handy when you need to horizontally move around thousands of pounds of loads and do not want to necessarily get on a forklift.

Choosing between a manual pallet jack and an electric pallet jack is a crucial decision, and a difficult one. It is important to understand your needs and choose the right equipment to maximize safety and efficiency of your operations.

Electric Pallet Jack vs Manual Pallet Jack

As the name suggests, a manual pallet jack is a hand-powered equipment used to lift, move, and lower pallets within a warehouse or a retail store. Often referred to as hand pallet jack, it is a light-duty, entry-level material handling equipment which is ideal for moving small to medium size loads for short distances. Since manual pallet jacks are hand operated, they can put more physical strain on the operator and cause injuries if not operated carefully.

Electric pallet jacks are powered by rechargeable batteries, so they are better equipped to move heavier loads and offer following benefits. Electric pallet jacks use motors to lift the loads and move them so that operator do not have to do the tasks manually.

Advantages of Electric Pallet Jacks:

  • Less physical strain which reduces the risk of injury for operators
  • Increased productivity since they can move around at a higher speed and help you get more done in less time
  • Lift heavier loads with ease and move more material in one-go, reducing the number of trips
  • Easy maneuverability through congested areas and narrow aisles
  • Diverse options with different lifting capacities and specifications are available to meet your needs
  • Option to choose an electric pallet jack with a ride-on platform. Premium brands like Doosan and Linde offer models with a platform for operator to stand-on to ensure all-day comfort

Whether you plan to use manual pallet jacks or electric pallet jacks, it is important to ensure that your personnel receive proper training to guarantee their safety and that of everyone at the jobsite.

Manual Pallet Jack

Electric Pallet Jack

How does an Electric Pallet Jack work?

Most electric pallet jacks can be conveniently controlled through the buttons located on the handle. There is a throttle on the pallet jack’s handle which can be twisted to move the jack forward. You can pull the controller in the opposite direction to move the jack in reverse/backward direction. Once you have steered the electric pallet jack to the desired location, simply slide its forks under the load that needs to be moved. You can then use fingertip buttons to raise the load off the ground and steer it to its destination. Once the pallet is in place, use your jack’s control for lowering the pallet to the ground. This control is usually marked with a down arrow.

Where are Electric Pallet Jacks Used?

Electric pallet jack can be used in applications where you need to transport material horizontally but not necessarily vertically. Such applications commonly include organizing staging areas and racks, prepping loads for outbound shipping, and basic inventory management tasks. Below are some of the industries which rely on electric pallet jacks for their day-today material handling operations:

  • General warehousing
  • Beverage
  • Cold Storage
  • Food Storage
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail

Speak with one of our people to learn more about which pallet jack models could be the best fit for your application.

Types of Electric Pallet Jacks

  • Electric Walkie Pallet Jack

In the walkie type of pallet jack, the operator walks in front or alongside the equipment. Since the operator must keep up with the truck, the maximum speed offered by this type is lower than that of rider type pallet trucks.

  • Electric Rider Pallet Jack

In the electric rider type pallet jack, the operator can stand on an integrated platform rather than just walking with the equipment. These are ideal for applications where the operator needs to move loads over long distances and more frequently. Since they offer a higher maximum speed, the rider type electric pallet jacks can increase the overall productivity of your operation. That said, owing to their higher speeds, electric rider pallet trucks can cause much more damage in case of a collision. It is important for operators to be fully trained and follow safety practices.

Electric Walkie Pallet Jack

Electric Rider Pallet Jack

Selecting The Right Battery for Electric Pallet Jack

Lead-acid and lithium-ion are the two most popular types of battery technologies when it comes to electric material handling equipment. Lead-acid is one of the oldest battery technologies and is gradually being replaced by the newer lithium-ion technology. Lithium-ion batteries offer many benefits like lower maintenance costs, increased safety, higher energy efficiency and sustainability. Lead acid batteries have lower upfront cost, but it is advisable to look at the total cost of ownership (TCO) when deciding. You can look at the detailed comparison between the lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries in our Forklift Battery Sizing and Technology Guide.

Training Requirements for Electric Pallet Jacks

Just like other forklifts, a new operator needs to be trained before they can operate an electric pallet jack. Operators need to receive certification to meet the requirements outlined by OSHA's Powered Industrial Trucks Standards (1910.178 (l)). Also, this certificate needs to be renewed every 3 years.

Electric pallet jack Operating Best Practices

Below are some of the best practices to follow when operating an electric pallet jack. These pointers are NOT a replacement for the training which every operator must undergo.

  • Know the capacity of pallet jack before operating
  • Ensure that all controls are operational and working as expected. Check the forks, horn, braking, and forward/reverse control.
  • Examine the route to make sure there are no obstructions or hazards which could pose a safety concern
  • When the load is lifted, make sure it is stable and centered
  • Do NOT adjust the forks while moving
  • Keep the speed within stipulated limits and be ready to stop
  • Avoid sudden movements or direction changes
  • Stop completely before lowering the load
  • NO passengers are allowed on the pallet jack
  • Walk in the front or partly to the side of the pallet jack while moving the load for good visibility
  • When travelling down a slope with the load, never walk in front the pallet jack and always stay on the side

Electric pallet jacks are simple and sturdy machines which can quickly move thousands of pounds of load. They can help you maximize productivity and safety by taking away the manual work from the operation. Premium brands like Doosan, Linde, and Clark offer a wide selection of electric pallet Jacks with multiple features to ensure faster acceleration, more torque, higher efficiency, lower maintenance costs, performance review indicators, convenient storage, and control handle ergonomics. Speak with one of our equipment specialists who can help you select the right electric pallet truck for your needs.

Electric Pallet Jack - Complete Guide [UPDATED 2024]

If you work in logistics or have your own warehouse, then you know how important it is to have the right equipment to move and transport products. One of the most popular pieces of equipment for this job is the electric pallet jack. In this complete guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about electric pallet jacks, including how to use them, what to look for in the best models, and how to maintain them for maximum longevity.

What is an electric pallet jack?

An electric pallet jack is a type of material handling equipment that is designed to move heavy loads across short to medium distances. It is powered by an electric motor and operated by a person who walks behind it and controls its movement using a handle. The forks of the jack are inserted under a pallet, and the load is lifted and moved to its destination. The electric motor makes it easy to move heavy loads quickly and efficiently, without the need for manual labor.

These machines typically have a capacity of between 3,300 and 5,500 pounds, making them ideal for most warehouse applications. However, there's models out there that can handle as much as 10,000 pounds.

Is an electric pallet jack hard to use?

No, electric pallet jacks are actually very easy to use. They are designed with intuitive controls that allow you to raise, lower, and move pallets with minimal effort. Most models also come with safety features like automatic braking and emergency stop buttons to ensure that your operators can use them safely.

However, like any piece of equipment, it is important to receive proper training before using one. Training should cover how to operate the jack safely, including how to lift and move loads, how to stop and start the jack, and how to maneuver it in tight spaces.

For more information, please visit Warehouse Electric Pallet Jack.

What is the best electric pallet jack?

The best electric pallet jack for your business depends on your specific needs. At WAREHOUSEWIZ, we offer a range of electric pallet jacks with different weight capacities, battery life, and safety features.

For example, our 4,400-pound capacity electric pallet jack is a heavy-duty model that is ideal for large warehouses with heavy loads. On the other hand, our 3,300-pound capacity electric pallet jack is a more lightweight and compact option that is ideal for smaller operations or tight spaces. It's important to choose a model that meets your needs in terms of weight capacity, maneuverability, and safety features.

Keeping Your Electric Pallet Jack in Top Shape

Understanding how to use an electric pallet jack is one thing, but maintaining it for optimal performance is another. To ensure that your pallet jack, a significant investment, continues to serve you efficiently for years, you must prioritize its maintenance.

When it comes to electric pallet jack maintenance, we recommend the following steps:

  • Start with a daily inspection before use, checking for signs of wear, tear, or loose parts, particularly on the forks and wheels. Familiarize yourself with the controls, ensuring they function as intended.
  • The battery, the heart of your electric pallet jack, should be fully charged before use. Clean the battery terminals regularly to prevent corrosion, and if necessary, check and adjust the electrolyte levels.
  • Use your pallet jack on smooth, clear paths to protect the wheels from chipping or breaking. This not only preserves the wheels but also enhances safety when operating the jack.
  • Pay close attention to the hydraulic system - a core component that facilitates the lifting and lowering functions. Check it regularly for leaks or damages, and address them promptly. Regular lubrication of all moving parts as per the manufacturer's instructions can further extend the life of your pallet jack.
  • If your pallet jack starts making unusual noises, get it inspected by a professional, as this could signal internal damage. Regular cleaning of your pallet jack is also crucial, as accumulated dust, dirt, and grime can cause long-term damage.
  • Finally, have your pallet jack serviced by professionals every six months to a year, depending on the frequency of usage. Between uses, store it in a secure, safe environment away from the elements to prevent unnecessary damage.

Can anyone use an electric pallet jack?

Anyone who has received proper training can use an electric pallet jack. You don't need to be licensed, as you would with a forklift for example. This may differ from jurisdiction to jurisdiction so make sure you double-check that this is the case in your area.

However, it is important to note that there are some physical requirements that need to be met. For example, the operator should be able to comfortably reach the handle and the controls, and they should have good hand-eye coordination. Additionally, the operator should be able to walk behind the jack for an extended period of time without experiencing discomfort or fatigue.

How much can an electric pallet jack carry?

The amount of weight an electric pallet jack can carry depends on the model and weight capacity specifications. WAREHOUSEWIZ offers two models of electric pallet jacks, with different weight capacities. The first model can carry up to 3,300 lbs, and the second model can carry up to 4,400 lbs.

When selecting an electric pallet jack, it's important to consider the weight of the loads that will be transported. Overloading an electric pallet jack can lead to accidents, injuries, and damage to both the equipment and the load. You must follow the weight capacity recommendations provided by the manufacturer to ensure safe and efficient operations.

What is the lifespan of an electric pallet jack?

The lifespan of an electric pallet jack depends on various factors such as usage, maintenance, and operating conditions. However, with proper maintenance and care, an electric pallet jack can last for many years. WAREHOUSEWIZ electric pallet jacks come with included manufacturer warranty (not including labor).

Regular maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of components, is crucial to extending the lifespan of the electric pallet jack. It's also important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for battery maintenance and replacement. Neglecting to maintain the electric pallet jack can lead to decreased performance and costly repairs.

How many hours does an electric pallet jack last?

The number of hours an electric pallet jack can last depends on several factors, such as battery life and battery capacity. Battery size is measured in Ah - this stands for amp hours. This is the amount of energy charge in a battery that enables 1 ampere of current to flow for one hour. In short, more Ah = longer running time on a single charge.

Here's a general guideline on how long an electric pallet jack will last depending on battery size (With Lithium-ION batteries): 

 Battery size Service time per charge 20Ah 4-5 hours 30Ah 6-7 hours 50Ah 7-8 hours

 

For most users, an electric pallet jack equipped with an 20Ah battery is more than enough. It lasts 4 to 5 hours, which when accounting for breaks and stops is perfect for a 8h shift.

Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for battery charging and replacement to ensure optimal performance and lifespan.

Should you push or pull an electric pallet jack?

According to the Washington Retail Association It is recommended to push rather than pull the electric pallet jack. Pushing an electric pallet jack allows the operator to maintain better control and visibility, especially when maneuvering in tight spaces.

Pulling an electric pallet jack can put additional strain on the operator's back and cause discomfort or injury. It can also make it difficult to see where the equipment is going and increase the risk of collisions or accidents.

How do you move a dead electric pallet jack?

If the electric pallet jack battery dies or the equipment becomes stuck, this is definitely a difficult situation. But don't worry, there's always a solution!

First, ensure that the area around the electric pallet jack is clear of any obstacles or hazards. Then, turn off the equipment and apply the brake.

Next, you have a few options:

  1. Tow it: L

    ocate the tow pin on the front of the electric pallet jack and attach a tow chain or strap to it. Then, use a forklift or other equipment to tow the electric pallet jack to a safe location. Avoid using excessive force or towing the electric pallet jack over long distances, as this can cause damage to the equipment.

  2. Lift it with a forklift: If you have a forklift in your warehouse, it can be used to lift and move the dead pallet jack. Simply attach a forklift fork to the pallet jack and lift it up off the ground. Make sure the pallet jack is secured to the forklift before moving it.
  3. Use a hoist or crane: If you have a hoist or crane in your warehouse, it can be used to lift and move the dead pallet jack. Attach the hook to the pallet jack and lift it off the ground. Make sure the pallet jack is secured to the hoist or crane before moving it.
  4. Use a dolly or hand truck: A dolly or hand truck can be used to move the dead pallet jack. Simply lift the pallet jack onto the dolly or hand truck and wheel it to its destination. This method is best for smaller, lighter pallet jacks.
  5. Get help: If all else fails, get help from a few coworkers to lift and move the dead pallet jack. Make sure everyone is lifting properly and using proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

In conclusion, an electric pallet jack is a valuable tool for material handling for your warehouse, store, truck, or any other industrial setting. When selecting an electric pallet jack, consider the weight capacity, lifespan, and maintenance requirements. Proper maintenance and care can help extend the lifespan of the electric pallet jack and ensure safe and efficient operations. Remember to push, not pull, the equipment during operation, and follow proper procedures for moving a dead electric pallet jack.

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