The hand pallet truck, often called a pump truck, pallet jack or manual pallet truck, is a cornerstone of the materials handling industry. While these trucks are simple to operate, reliable pallet truck training is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. Understanding how to use a pallet truck correctly is essential for maintaining a safe and efficient workplace.
In this blog, we explore what a hand pallet truck is, the benefits of using one and the best practices for safe operation. Whether you are new to pallet truck operation or need a refresher, this pallet truck training resource will help you navigate the essentials.
What is a hand pallet truck? And how does it work?
A hand pallet truck is designed to lift and transport palletised loads within your warehouse or workspace. For example, our BT Lifter is the perfect solution for quickly moving loads from one area to another with minimal effort. However, effectively using a pallet truck is key to optimising your material handling processes.
Benefits of hand pallet trucks for palletised loads
Hand pallet trucks offer several advantages, making them an essential part of any warehouse operation:
- Increased productivity: A hand pallet truck can quickly lift and move palletised loads, reducing the time and effort required and improving productivity. Suitable pallet truck training also reduces physical strain on your team.
- Reduced risk of injury: Pallet truck training minimises the risk of workplace injuries by teaching operators how to lift and transport loads safely, eliminating the need for manual lifting.
- Improved versatility: Hand pallet trucks can be used in various settings, making them versatile and flexible tools for material handling operations.
Step-by-step guide: How to use a pallet truck safely
Knowing how to use a pallet truck safely is vital in preventing accidents in your warehouse and ensuring smooth operations. Here are steps you should take to ensure the safe operation of a hand pallet truck.
Pre-operational checks
Before using a pallet truck, perform these checks:
- Check you have the correct hand pallet truck for your needs. You can read more details in our hand pallet truck training guide.
- Visually and thoroughly inspect the hand pallet truck for any signs of damage or wear.
- Fully raise the forks to ensure no signs of hydraulic oil leaks. You can do this by pressing the level downwards and then operating the handle.
- Check the load is securely stacked and that the pallet is not damaged.
Setting up
Correct setup is vital for safe operation:
- Align the forks with the gaps of the pallet.
- Firmly grip the handle with both hands and steadily push forward upright — carefully guiding the forks into the pallet gaps.
- Ensure there is enough clearance before raising the forks, being mindful of any width restrictions and overhead obstructions.
- Raise the forks using the level. Once the pallet clears the floor, return the level to a neutral position.
- Push the handle down, face the direction you will travel and grip the handle firmly. If you are turning left, use your left hand. If you are turning right, use your right hand.
Safely moving your pallet truck
Safety should always be a priority when moving a pallet truck:
- Check that your route is clear of obstructions, trucks or pedestrians.
- With the handle low, gently pull to start the hand pallet truck moving — the forks should trail behind you.
- Walk to one side of the hand pallet truck, never in front of it, and avoid standing on the inside of a turn.
- Travel on the left side of the aisle where possible and do not make sharp turns.
- Never run — always walk at a safe speed.
- If your hand pallet truck is loaded and you are travelling down a slope, keep the load facing downward and control the speed by pulling back with both hands on the handle.
Safely moving your pallet truck
When you arrive at the right area:
- Manouevre the palletised load into position.
- Ensure you are clear of the load and slowly pull the lever to lower the load under control.
- Return the lever to the neutral position when fully lowered.
- If your surroundings are clear, stand to one side and carefully pull the hand pallet truck away from the pallet.
- Conduct your final checks for potential damage to the pallet, the load and the hand pallet truck.
Extra considerations for hand pallet truck maintenance
Some operators treat manual hand pallet trucks as disposable items, but with the correct training and maintenance, they can last much longer. For instance, the BT range of manual pallet trucks is designed to be highly serviceable. It has 12 grease points around its pump, frame and axles to keep it functioning perfectly for many years. The BT Lifter also has a 99-year functional guarantee on the fork frame.
At Toyota Material Handling, we have a dedicated team of hand pallet truck specialists and VNA truck specialists who can repair, service and maintain all makes of hand pallet trucks. This ensures your hand pallet truck works safely when lifting palletised loads and can also extend its expected operating life.
How can we help you?
Our team has over 100 years of material handling expertise. We are here to help you determine whether a hand pallet truck is right for your operation and provide the hand pallet truck training you need to use it safely. Contact us today to learn more about using a hand pallet truck effectively in your workplace.
