A pallet forklift truck is a broad category of material handling equipment designed to lift, move, and stack palletized loads. This term encompasses everything from simple manual pallet jacks for ground-level transport to sophisticated counterbalance forklifts for high stacking. The right choice depends on load weight, lift height, travel distance, and the specific demands of your facility.
The Main Types of Pallet Forklift Trucks
Hand Pallet Trucks (Manual Pallet Jacks)
The simplest and most cost-effective option for moving pallets at ground level. A hand pallet truck uses a pump-action handle to raise the forks a few inches off the ground. Capacity typically ranges from 1.6 to 3.0 tonnes. Working aisle: 1,900–2,500 mm. Best for light to medium loads over short distances in tight spaces.
Powered Pallet Trucks
A battery-operated version of the hand pallet truck, designed for horizontal transport at ground level. Available as "walkies" (operator walks alongside) or "riders" (operator rides on the truck). Capacity: 1.6 to 3.0 tonnes. Lift height: 210 mm. Working aisle: 1,900–2,500 mm. Ideal for longer distances and higher frequency of use.
Pallet Stackers
Based on a powered pallet truck with a mast added for vertical stacking. Can lift pallets to heights of 1,500–5,000 mm. Capacity: 1.0 to 1.6 tonnes. Working aisle: 2,100–2,500 mm. Available in narrow-track and wide-track versions. Not suitable for pallets with baseboards like Chep pallets.
Counterbalance Forklifts
The most common type of forklift, featuring a rear counterweight that balances the load at the front. Capacity typically ranges from 4,000 to 6,500 pounds. Lifting height up to 189 inches (16 feet). Available in electric (60% of market) and internal combustion (IC) versions. Best for heavy lifting, stacking goods in racking systems, and loading/unloading trucks.
Key Differences: Pallet Jack vs. Forklift
Feature Pallet Jack Forklift
Load Capacity Up to 3 tonnes Up to 18 tonnes
Lift Height Ground level only (210 mm max) Up to 16+ feet
Maneuverability Excels in tight spaces Better for open areas
Training Minimal instruction Formal licensing required
Cost Low High upfront investment
The bottom line: Pallet forklift trucks range from manual pallet jacks (1.6–3.0 t, ground level only) to powered pallet trucks (1.6–3.0 t, 210 mm lift), pallet stackers (1.0–1.6 t, 1,500–5,000 mm lift), and counterbalance forklifts (4,000–6,500 lbs, 16+ ft lift). Choose a pallet jack for short-distance ground-level transport in tight spaces; choose a forklift for heavy lifting, stacking, and outdoor applications. Pallet jacks require minimal training and low investment, while forklifts require formal licensing and higher upfront costs.