Manual Pallet Trucks vs Electric Pallet Trucks
How do you know whether a manual pallet truck or an electric pallet truck is better suited for you? The main purpose of any pallet truck is to lift, lower and transport pallets from A to B. Manual pallets are perfect for smaller loads, whereas electric pallets are better for heavy loads and frequent use. Learn more about each type of pallet truck below.
What Is a Pallet Truck and How Does Electric Differ From Manual?
A manual pallet truck is a purely hand-powered tool for transporting heavy pallets. Whereas, an electric pallet truck is power-driven, which is beneficial for longer distances.
Pallet trucks do not require a licence to operate.
How to Use a Manual Pallet Truck:
1. Push the lever down to lift the pallet
2. Move the towbar up and down to lift the fork
3. Oil is drawn into the lifting cylinder which lifts the fork
4. Depress the towbar to lift further
5. Repeat to lift the fork higher
6. Set the lever to the middle for transport
7. Pull the lever up to slowly lower the pallet
8. Transport the pallet to its destination
How to Use an Electric Pallet Truck:
1. Switch on the pallet truck and check the battery is charged
2. Check safety features (emergency stop, overload and sensors
3. Adjust the speed for manoeuvring
4. Navigate using power steering
5. Use push-button controls to lift and lower forks
6. Adjust the height or side shift if necessary
7. Transport the pallet to its destination
8. Turn off the pallet truck after use
With an electric pallet truck, it’s especially important to monitor the battery throughout its use. If it suddenly stops, you may be able to use it manually if it is safe to do so. If not, you may require another truck to take it to the charging station.
Pallet Truck Use
Both manual and electric pallet trucks are commonly used in warehouses, large retail stores and factories.
If you have lighter pallets or only need to use it a few times per day, a pallet truck is right for you. However, if you have a heavy load that needs to be lifted high, then you should opt for a forklift truck.
Manual Pallet Truck Use
A manual pallet truck is, admittedly, harder to use than its automatic alternative. As it requires a fair amount of strength, you should only use a manual pallet for short distances and light loads.
Electric Pallet Truck Use
An electric pallet truck is suitable for heavier loads and frequent use. Overall, they are the preferred option because of their efficiency.
Pallet Truck Size
There is not much difference in size between manual and automatic pallet trucks. The standard pallet truck size is as follows:
UK pallets:
– Typically 680 mm wide and 1150 mm long
– Suitable for 1000 mm x 1200 mm pallets
– Most used in the UK
Euro pallets:
– Typically 540 mm wide and 1150 mm long
– Suitable for 800 mm x 1200 mm pallets
– Most used when trading or importing goods from the EU
Printer pallets:
– Typically 450 mm wide and 800 mm long
– Suitable for 1200 mm x 1000 mm, but usually below
– Most used for small businesses or lighter pallets
Manual vs Electric Pallet Truck Weight
There is no standard pallet truck weight, but there certainly are differences between manual and automatic pallet trucks.
Manual pallet trucks tend to be much smaller and lighter than electric pallets. They typically weigh no less than 70 kg and no more than 600 kg.
The sizes we supply are 180 kg, 530 kg and 565 kg.
Manual vs Electric Pallet Truck Capacity
Standard pallet trucks have a weight capacity of 1500 kg to 2000 kg. However, there are some heavy-duty models designed to carry up to 3000 kg.
Manual pallet trucks typically carry between 500 kg to 1500 kg less than the automatic version. Whereas, the average electric pallet truck capacity is 1500 kg or more.
The weight capacities we supply are 1500 kg, 1800 kg and 2000 kg.
Manual vs Electric Pallet Truck Price
There isn’t really a standard pallet truck price. Essentially, it depends on the company and the brand. However, high-quality and new products are more expensive than lower-quality or used pallet trucks.
A manual pallet truck costs between £250 and £1,000, factoring in weight and capacity specifically. Whereas, electric pallet trucks cost between £1,000 and £5,000.
High-Quality Pallet Trucks at Trucks Direct
Boost efficiency in your warehouse with our durable, top-of-the-range pallet trucks. We even offer interest-free finance options with a 12-month warranty.
We supply electric pallets at competitive prices, carrying up to 2000 kg. With both new and used options available, we’re sure you will find something suitable.
Make transporting pallets easier and view our stock. Once you’ve found the perfect pallet truck, simply contact us with any questions or proceed to checkout.