Sometimes, you don’t need a forklift.
Not every load is heavy-duty. Some call for lighter-duty tools. When that happens, a pallet jack might be just what you need.
However, even pallet jacks come with options.
The sticker price on a manual jack might tempt you, but don't be fooled. Electric pallet jacks offer much more bang for your buck. In most facilities, these little workhorses are precisely what you need.
Read on to learn why electric jacks are the clear winner when it comes to pallet jacks.
Manual Pallet Jacks vs. Electric Pallet Jacks
The difference between manual and electric power jacks is more than just a question of power; it’s a matter of control.
Manual pallet jacks use pump action to raise the load. The user pumps the lever, which activates the hydraulics and lifts the forks. This simple action makes them inexpensive and well-suited to light-duty lifting.
However, they depend on the user’s strength to control and maneuver the load.
Electric pallet trucks, on the other hand, use battery power to both lift and maneuver. Although this makes them more expensive, it provides the operator greater control and lifting potential. Powered mobility makes climbing grades easier and allows the operator to stop faster.
Electric pallet jacks provide greater control to the user.
The Benefits of an Electric Pallet Truck
In fact, powered pallet jacks offer a host of user benefits.
Safety
The biggest advantage of electric pallet trucks is safety.
Manual jacks rely on the user's strength to keep them under control. Yet, few people are strong enough to stop a 4,500-pound load on a dime. Consequently, losing control of a manual jack is easy, especially on an incline.
Out-of-control jacks can lead to serious injuries, such as crushing injuries.
Electric jacks are controlled by the jack’s onboard motor. This makes stopping and starting as easy as pushing a button, giving the operator greater control. Greater control means fewer injuries and less damaged product.
Electric pallet trucks better protect your team and your facility.
Strength
Though some manual jacks can lift up to 10,000 lbs, they are truly limited by what the operator can manage.
Most manual jacks can lift between 4,500 and 5,500 lbs. However, these heavy loads are difficult to manage in motion without power assistance. Consequently, manual jacks might be limited to much lighter loads depending on the operator's strength.
Electric pallet jacks don’t have that same problem.
While these jacks can lift load sizes similar to their manual cousins, they have a higher functional capacity since the user can benefit from powered drive and braking. For example, the Toyota 8HBW23 electric pallet jack has a lift capacity of 4,500 lbs. However, with the power of the 24-volt electrical system and AC drive motor, an operator can comfortably move the maximum load, knowing that the anti-rollback system and electric disk brakes will help keep the load under control.
Toyota electric pallet jacks can comfortably lift more weight than manual jacks, regardless of the user’s physical abilities.
Functionality
Let's take the Toyota 8HBW23 as an example again. This electric pallet jack comes standard with 48-inch forks, allowing it to easily tackle standard 48-inch pallets. It features programmable performance, including a crawl mode that enhances maneuverability even in tight spaces like trailers.
Even with more moving parts, maintenance is just as easy.
Its self-diagnostics readily identify errors and alert the operator. The cover requires no tools to remove, speeding up maintenance. Moreover, you have a choice of battery type: wet cell or maintenance-free. Either way, the unit comes with an onboard charger, allowing you to simply plug the jack into any standard wall outlet.
The bottom line is electric pallet jacks just do more for you than manual jacks ever could.
Electric Walkie Pallet Jacks For Sale
Electric pallet trucks are a great deal all on their own.
However, we've taken things one step further. Right now, and for a limited time, Toyota 8HBW23 electric walkie pallet jacks with the wet cell battery are on sale for $1,500 off MSRP. This deal includes delivery, the 48-inch forks, the battery, and the charger all at one price. Don't miss out!
To learn more about this fantastic deal or to find out what pallet jack is right for you, contact us online or visit one of our locations:
Arkansas - Jonesboro
Alabama - Birmingham, Dothan, Irondale, Madison, Mobile, and Montgomery
Mississippi - Belden, Tupelo, and Richland
Tennessee - Jackson, Memphis, Knoxville, and Kingsport
Further Reading
How to Choose the Best Electric Pallet Jack for Your Warehouse
When to Use a Lead-Acid Vs. Lithium-Ion Forklift Battery
Toyota Electric Walkie Pallet Jack Sale