Pallet-moving equipment comes in all forms, from the manual hand pallet jack to tall swing reaches and automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). Today, let’s focus on hand pallet jacks and walkies.

Picking the right pump jack

Let’s start by reviewing the most affordable option – the hand pallet jack, aka the pump jack. Then, we’ll cover several models so that when you’re ready to buy, you will be well-versed and can easily choose what’s best for your operation.

• Altra Lift is an ideal hand pallet jacket for light-duty applications at a great value. Load capacities range from 4,000 to 6,000 lbs. There are four fork lengths to choose from and multiple configurations available.
• RJ50P has a robust hydraulic pump design with a high-performance frame load capacity of 5,000 lbs. and 48” forks—perfect for high throughput.
• LCM50 Low and LCU50 Ultra-Low Profile models have a one-piece hydraulic pump and can carry 3,000 to 5,000 lbs. respectively. The low fork heights are ideal for pallets or skids with low clearance openings.
• LCS80 Heavy Duty Load Capacity jack can carry up to 8,000 lbs. With a heavy-duty hydraulic pump, reinforced frame, and solid steel wheels and rollers, it’s made for high throughput applications.
• SS45 Stainless Steel Jack is a must if you work in corrosive environments and frequent washdowns.
• PST23 features Power-Start Technology, which is ideal for environments where heavy loads could cause strain on an operator. An operator can handle loads with little effort and considerable efficiency. EH&S folks like the lift assist option, and Procurement likes the price.

Is a hand pallet jack even the right solution?

• How long is the travel? Think about the time and energy operators will save.
• How many pallets are moved per day? Every lift of a hand jack requires a lot of physical work.
• Do dock plates or other uneven surfaces need to be navigated? These are very difficult with hand jacks.
• Are there ramps? Hand pallet jacks are not to be used on ramps!

You’ve decided to move up to a powered jack. Now what?

Here are a few things to ask before you purchase an electric jack:

• How many pallets will this equipment need to move in a day? Consider the power you will need.
• Is there more than one shift? If so, consider the power you’ll need.
• A lead-acid wet cell pack with a built-in charger has the lowest cost, ease of charging, short run times, and short battery life. The warranty is typically one year to 18 months.
• Lead-acid industrial batteries with built-in or stand-alone chargers are higher-cost, have longer run times, and have a longer warranty, typically two to three years.
• Maintenance-free AGM is most popular because the batteries do not need watering. They are relatively low-cost and typically have an 18-month to two-year warranty.
• Thin plate pure lead (TPPL) is also maintenance-free. It is becoming more popular because of the opportunity charging and the three-year warranty. The onboard charger can recharge in eight hours, and the off-board charger takes one and a half hours for those running two shifts.
• Will you be going over the road? Some DOT jurisdictions do not allow lead-acid batteries in the backs of trailers due to the risk of battery acid spills. If you send it over the road, stick to AGM, TPPL, or Lithium-ion batteries.

Consider the power options

Historically, walk-behind jacks have either a 4,500 lb. capacity or a 6,000 lb. capacity. History has shown that environments with uneven floors, drains, and repeated dock use benefit from the heavier-duty 6,000 lb. chassis. Even if it costs 30% more, expect a 50% longer life and a 25% reduction in chassis maintenance costs.

Having durable, reliable jacks can make all the difference in running an efficient operation. Consider the power options mentioned above when considering the following Raymond pallet jacks.

• A workhorse that can handle demanding applications with full day run times and has many options is the Raymond 8210. It has a 4,500# capacity and power options, including low-cost Lead Acid packs, maintenance-free packs, TPPL, and Li-Ion.
• However, if you require a jack for the toughest applications and longest run times, the Raymond 8310 has 6,000# capacity with power options, including low-cost lead acid packs, maintenance-free packs, TPPL, and Li-Ion.

Last but not least, this budget-friendly powered jack has been gaining popularity with its long run times and fast charging capabilities.

• The Edge has a 3,300 lb. capacity and has a 20Ah or 36Ah Li-ion swappable battery. It is unsuitable for maximum load and heavy use on a busy dock but appropriate for lighter applications like back-of-store or over-the-road operations. It also provides full day run times with extra battery swaps to give you the edge in productivity.

Several other hand pallet jacks are available to enhance productivity in operations of all sizes. They come with other options, including:

• Larger battery compartments for the longest possible run times
• UL, E, and EE ratings. There are EX-rated units for hazardous locations. (not available on all models)
• Traction drive tires for wet or slippery surfaces
• Load backrests to help support tall loads
• Casters for tall tippy loads. Note: It is not suitable for dockplate use or uneven floors.
• Cold storage protection for freezer use
• Travel alarms
• Built-in weight scale
• Storage trays, shrink wrap holders
• IP65 ratings for wet environments
• Corrosion protection for fish houses and other food-producing areas

Find the perfect fit

Before you order that hand pallet jack online, call the experts and discuss all the currently available options. You’ll be glad you did.