Pallet Trucks & Pump Trucks
Move heavy loads with ease. We stock a large selection of high quality pallet trucks, ideal for distribution centres, retail environments, warehouses, and factories, as part of our wider range of industrial supplies and warehouse equipment. Our range covers manual pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks, powered pallet trucks, and hand pallet trucks to suit any handling need.
Businesses can rely on our pallet trucks for safe, efficient operations and smooth transporting of heavy goods. Free next-day delivery is available on most orders when you order before 3pm.
What Are Pallet Trucks? Essential Handling Equipment
Pallet trucks (also known as a Pallet Jack) are a type of handling equipment designed for moving pallets efficiently across short distances. Hand pallet trucks and pump trucks are among the most common options, used in warehouses, factories, retail stores, and distribution centres.
Most models include a hydraulic system to raise and lower loads, and many are built to handle heavy goods with minimal operator strain.
Benefits of High Quality Pallet Trucks for Heavy Loads
- Improved ergonomics: Pallet trucks reduce strain on operators. Ergonomic models offer height-adjustable seats, armrests, and suspension systems that absorb vibrations, reducing fatigue and supporting longer periods of concentration during use. Some designs let operators sit at a right angle to the forks, which benefits the musculoskeletal system during extended use.
- Increased productivity: They make light work of heavy loads, improving efficiency and helping workers accomplish more in less time.
- Improved safety: Proper use reduces the risk of manual handling injuries in the workplace. Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER), operators must receive adequate training.
- Robust construction: Built from durable materials to withstand busy warehouse and industrial environments.
How to Lift a Pallet Using a Pallet Truck
- Position the forks beneath the pallet, ensuring they're evenly spaced and centred.
- Use the handle or controls to lift the pallet off the ground, then steer in the desired direction at a controlled speed.
- Always clear the route before moving and prioritise operator safety.
Both electric and manual pallet trucks are classified as low-risk material handling equipment and don't require a formal licence, but PUWER requires all operators to be adequately trained.
Are There Any Safety Issues with Pallet Trucks?
Key safety considerations include avoiding overloading beyond rated capacity, ensuring loads are secured, and keeping the operating area clear. Operator error is the most common cause of incidents, making adequate training under PUWER a legal requirement.
Many models feature multiple braking systems that work together to stop the truck correctly in any situation, improving operator safety in tight and hazardous environments.
How Do I Maintain My Pallet Truck?
Inspect regularly for wear or damage. Clean after each use, lubricate moving parts as directed, check hydraulic fluid levels, and test safety features per the manufacturer's schedule.
Types of Pallet Trucks: Manual, Electric, Hand and High Lift
We offer a wide choice of pallet truck types to suit every operation, alongside a broader selection of trucks and trolleys:
- Manual pallet trucks: Hydraulic handle operation requiring no electricity or fuel, making them low maintenance and ideal for short-distance transport in warehouses and workshops.
- Electric pallet trucks: Motor-powered with joystick and tiller controls for enhanced manoeuvrability, suited to longer distances in large warehouses and distribution centres.
- Hand pallet trucks and pump trucks: Compact and versatile, suitable for tight spaces and light industrial use.
- Compact pallet trucks: Designed for narrow-aisle retail and distribution environments where manoeuvrability is essential, similar in use to a versatile folding trolley cart for smaller loads.
- Heavy-duty models: Rated up to 3,000 kg SWL for demanding industrial operations.
- High lift pallet trucks: Lift pallets to height for ergonomic loading and unloading onto vehicles or shelving.
- Specialist range: Models for unique requirements, including corrosion-resistant options.
How Much Weight Can a Pallet Truck Handle?
The lifting capacity of pallet trucks ranges from 500 kg for entry-level models, with a safe working load (SWL) of up to 1,000 kg, to 3,300 kg for specialist designs. Many are built for standard Euro pallets, with heavy-duty options reaching 3,000 kg SWL.
Browse our dedicated electric pallet trucks, hand pallet trucks, and high lift pallet trucks ranges for full specifications, or our team is happy to advise.
Are There Any UK or European Industry Standards That Apply to Pallet Trucks?
In the UK, BS EN 1757-1:2001 covers safety requirements for pallet trucks, including design, construction, and overload protection. In Europe, EN 12999:2003 covers safety requirements for manually propelled trucks. Employers must comply with PUWER, which requires operators to be trained and equipment maintained in safe working order.