How To Use Pallet Jack: A Complete Guide

Mar 22, 2024

Share this article:

A man is pushing a pallet jack with a box on it in a warehouse.

Types of Pallet Jacks

A standard pallet jack is the kind that most people who have ever worked in a warehouse environment are familiar with. This includes two outward-facing steel prongs which are used to lift a load for transportation. The prongs are raised and lowered via a handle at the rear of the jack.

Electric pallet jacks have also become quite common, which are similar in design with the exception that they don't require you to manually rise and lower the load. Here, you'll operate the jack via the onboard controls once it is in place. These will have to be charged when they're not in use.

Safety Precautions and Guidelines

At a bare minimum, you should always inspect the pallet jack before you use it. Always look for loose prongs, wheels that may have come unbalanced due to heavy use, and similar issues. If you're using an electric pallet jack, make sure that there are no frays in the charging cords and that they have been stored properly.

When it comes to actually moving a load with the pallet jack, make sure that the path you're planning on using is totally clear. Walk from the pallet to the destination once or twice and remove any materials, cords, or other items that might get in your way. Make sure people in the area are aware that you're using the pallet jack.

Beyond that, never overload a pallet jack. Most pallet jacks can safely handle up to approximately 7,700 pounds. Anything more than that and you run the risk of tipping over the load during transportation.

Guide to Operating a Pallet Jack

Ultimately, the process for how to use a pallet jack properly and safely is a straightforward one. All you need to do is:

Identify the release lever. This will be on the handle, which is accessible when standing behind the pallet jack.
Move the pallet jack into position. Move the jack to the side of the pallet you can access and use the release lever to lower it to the appropriate height.
Carefully slide the prongs on the pallet jack under the load. Move the prongs through the slats on the front, rear, or sides of the pallet.

4. Jack up the pallet by pulling on the metal handle. Pull the handle towards you. Each time you do, the pallet jack will raise a bit more. Continue to do this until the pallet you are working with is fully off the ground.

5. Use the handle to steer the pallet jack - and the associated pallet - into the appropriate location. Once in place, use the release lever to lower the pallet jack back onto the ground. You can then slide the jack away from the pallet. Repeat this process for however many pallets you are working with.

Tailored Solutions for Your Operations

At Advance Pallet, we take pride in our commitment to understanding and meeting the unique needs of our clients. We recognize that the world of pallet handling is nuanced, with different pallet jacks designed for specific pallet types. From 3-Stringer Pallets designed to work with walkie-rider pallet jacks to cost-effective #2 pallets, we understand that efficiency and precision are paramount, and our team is ready to accommodate your specific pallet requirements.

If you'd like to find out more information about how to properly use a pallet jack in your environment, or if you just have any additional questions that you'd like to go over with someone in a bit more detail, please don't delay - contact the team at Advance Pallet today.