Pallet jacks are essential in warehouses and working environments where heavy goods and equipment are regularly being transported. Luckily, pallet jacks are an affordable, effective, and easy to use tool which almost anyone can operate.

If you’re wondering how do pallet jacks work or how to use a pallet jack, this guide will take you through everything you need to know.

What is a Pallet Jack?

A pallet jack is a tool commonly used in factories, warehouses and storerooms to lift and move pallets wooden pallets that contain goods or equipment. While it’s one of the most efficient, cost-effective ways to transport heavy loads over short distances, understanding how to use a pallet jack properly is key to ensuring safety and efficiency.

The Benefits of a Pallet Jack

Pallet jacks are designed to be easy-to-use tools that reduce manual labour and the risk of injury and physical strain on workers by providing a safe way to transport heavy loads. They’re great for streamlining operations in environments like warehouses or stockrooms.

How Do Pallet Jacks Work?

Pallet jacks operate by using a hydraulic pump system, which lifts the forks to raise the pallet. This is powered by either manual effort or electricity, depending on the type of pallet jack.

For manual models, the operator pumps the handle to lift the forks, while an electric pallet jack uses a motor to lift and drive the unit. Pallet jacks also feature wheels and a handle, so you can easily move it by pushing or driving the jack across the floor.

How to Use a Pallet Jack?

Whether you’re in a warehouse, retail space, or factory, knowing how to use a pallet jack properly can make your workflow more efficient, reduce the risk of injury, and make heavy lifting tasks easier. Operating a pallet jack is straightforward:

1. Using the Forks: First, position the forks to go under the pallet you’d like to lift.
2. Lift the Load: For manual pallet jacks, pump the handle to lift the forks until it lifts the pallet off the ground. For electric pallet jacks, press the control button to raise the forks.
3. Move the Pallet: Once the pallet is lifted, push or drive the pallet jack to wherever you’d like it to go.
4. Lower the Load: To lower the pallet, use the release lever on manual jacks or control buttons on electric jacks.

Pallet Jacks from Sitecraft

At Sitecraft, we offer a range of pallet jacks and other essential material handling solutions like bin tugs and platform ladders to suit all your needs.

Whether you’re looking for a manual pallet jack for lighter loads or an electric version for more demanding tasks, we’ve got you covered. Explore our pallet jacks for sale online, or contact us today to find the perfect model for you!