Manual Pallet Jack & Hydraulic Hand Pallet Truck

About Manual Pallet Jack & Hydraulic Hand Pallet Truck

A manual pallet jack, also called a hand pallet truck, lifts and moves palletized loads over short distances using a hydraulic pump activated by pumping the handle. The forks slide under a pallet, the pump raises them a few centimeters, and the operator walks the load to its destination where a release lever lowers it smoothly. It is the most economical way to move pallets inside warehouses, factories, supermarkets, shops and loading areas. Capacities, fork lengths and wheel materials are chosen to match the heaviest load, the pallet type and the floor surface.

How to Choose

  • Load capacity with a safety margin above your heaviest pallet
  • Fork length and width to fit your pallets and racking entry
  • Wheel material: nylon for hard floors, PU for quiet indoor use, rubber for grip
  • Hydraulic pump quality and sealed system for long service life
  • Lowered fork height and steering design for low-clearance pallets and tight aisles

FAQ

Q: What load capacity do I need?
A: Match the rated capacity to your heaviest pallet plus a safety margin, typically 10 to 25% above. Standard warehouse pallet trucks are commonly rated around 2 to 3 tons, but size to your actual loads, not the average.

Q: What fork length should I choose?
A: Standard forks of about 1150 mm to 1220 mm fit most Euro and US pallets. Shorter forks improve maneuverability in narrow spaces, while longer forks suit long or double-pallet loads. Measure your pallet entry and racking before choosing.

Q: Nylon or PU wheels?
A: PU wheels are quieter, floor-friendly and ideal for indoor warehouses, while nylon wheels are harder and wear-resistant for rough concrete and heavy-duty use. Rubber wheels give grip on uneven surfaces. Match the wheels to your floor.

Q: How do I keep the hydraulic pump working?
A: Check for oil leaks and air in the system, keep the forks and pump clean, and lubricate steering and load wheel bearings regularly. If lifting feels weak, lower the forks, set the lever to lower and pump the handle to bleed trapped air.