Pallet jacks are devices used for lifting and transporting pallets.  Typically, they lift the pallet only high enough off the ground to allow the pallet to be transported. There are many different drive and lift configurations for pallet jacks. Manual devices can be moved by the pushing, pulling, or pumping action of an operator. Powered products use a gasoline-powered engine or alternating current (AC) source. Self-propelled pallet jacks are more expensive than other types of products, but provide the feature of a powered pallet truck along with speed control and safety-reverse.

Selecting pallet jacks requires an analysis of product specifications and features. Materials of construction, color or finish, load capacity, fork width and length, raised height, lowered height, wheel size, and steering arc are important considerations. Many pallet jacks are made of steel, stainless steel, or galvanized steel for durability and corrosion-resistance. Components such as housings and seals are made of plastic or elastomeric materials. Steering wheels and load wheels can be made of polyurethane or steel. Powder-coated pallet jacks are painted with an electrostatically-charged powder that adheres to metal. Paint colors such as blue, black, and gray are commonly available. Pallet jack load capacity is measured in pounds (lbs.). With some models, a by-pass valve is used to protect against overload conditions. Pallet jack fork dimensions, raised height, and lowered height, are measured in inches (in.). Steering arc is measured in degrees. 

Pallet jacks are devices used for lifting and transporting pallets.  Typically, they lift the pallet only high enough off the ground to allow the pallet to be transported. There are many different drive and lift configurations for pallet jacks. Manual devices can be moved by the pushing, pulling, or pumping action of an operator. Powered products use a gasoline-powered engine or alternating current (AC) source. Self-propelled pallet jacks are more expensive than other types of products, but provide the feature of a powered pallet truck along with speed control and safety-reverse.

Selecting pallet jacks requires an analysis of product specifications and features. Materials of construction, color or finish, load capacity, fork width and length, raised height, lowered height, wheel size, and steering arc are important considerations. Many pallet jacks are made of steel, stainless steel, or galvanized steel for durability and corrosion-resistance. Components such as housings and seals are made of plastic or elastomeric materials. Steering wheels and load wheels can be made of polyurethane or steel. Powder-coated pallet jacks are painted with an electrostatically-charged powder that adheres to metal. Paint colors such as blue, black, and gray are commonly available. Pallet jack load capacity is measured in pounds (lbs.). With some models, a by-pass valve is used to protect against overload conditions. Pallet jack fork dimensions, raised height, and lowered height, are measured in inches (in.). Steering arc is measured in degrees. 

Pallet jacks vary in terms of features. Some products have three stages: raised, lowered and neutral. Others have a spring-load handle for ease of use. Dual-direction pallet trucks allow operators to maneuver in tight areas and place oversized items across the forks. Stainless steel and galvanized steel pallet jacks are suitable for corrosive or extremely wet environments, laboratories and clean rooms, and food processing and pharmaceutical applications.  Pallet jacks that include an integral scale designed for weighing inbound and outbound freight.