Choosing a Pallet Stacker, Weigh the Pros and Cons of Each Type

Pallet stackers are designed to pick up, deliver, consolidate and stack pallets (sometimes called skids), which are flat transport structures that support goods in a stable way while they are being lifted. These are used in several industries, including:

  1. Retailers
  2. Warehouses
  3. Dairies
  4. Farms
  5. Shipyards
  6. Industrial
  7. Commercial

Types of Pallet Stackers

There are two main types of pallet stackers – electric and manual. Electric are also called electric motor driven pallet stackers or forklifts. Electric pallet stackers use an electro-hydraulic system to lift and a manual relief-valve to lower loads. Non-electric are propelled or dragged using the operator’s muscle power. For this reason, it is generally recommended that an operator not move more than ten pallets a day and only operate a manual stacker on a smooth floor. If the conditions are not smooth or a greater quantity of pallets needs to be moved then it is recommended that an electric pallet stacker is used to ensure the safety of the operator.

A major pro to using pallet stackers is that they don’t emit waste, so there is no gas to dispose of, making them the ideal machine for indoor use. However, since they are battery operated it is important that the battery is properly maintained and adequate time for charging and cooling the battery is given. The time needed will depend on the type and model of pallet stacker used, however it usually takes no more than 16 hours.

There are three main types of electric stackers. When choosing the type you prefer it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each:

1. Counterweight Stabilized Fork Lifts

  1. Are able to lift pallets directly off the floor

2. Forkover

  1. Are less expensive than the counterweight stabilized fork lifts
  2. Are more space efficient
  3. Have added maneuverability
  4. Can’t lift pallets right off the floor because their stabilizer legs get in the way

3. Straddle Legged Fork Lifts

  1. Can lower their forks all the way to the ground to pick up pallets
  2. Are more expensive
  3. Take up more space to store

Pallet Truck Safety

Safety is of the utmost importance in all industries. You need to ensure that your employees are protected from injury. Its can help reduce injury from repetitive movements or awkward positioning, which can improve productivity and employee morale. They are designed with safety in mind and often come with a number of safety features, including:

  1. Safety brakes
  2. Variable-speed forward mechanisms
  3. Reverse gear mechanisms

Pallet stackers are an excellent choice if you are in an industry that needs to move pallets on a regular basis. Not only do they increase efficiency and safety, they will also reduce the risk of injury for you.