Pallet Stackers: A Great Alternative To Forklifts

A pallet stacker is a great alternative to forklift trucks. A lot of industrial plants and warehouses have begun to rely on these heavy duty equipments since they are easier to maneuver and frees up more space. There are different types of pallet stackers with varying means of operations. Some come with special functions and features too. Find out more about these.

What is a Pallet Stacker?

A pallet stacker is a heavy duty machine that functions to stack, store and dispense pallets. Compared to traditional forklift trucks, these are more specific in terms of work so you get to have more space and save more time and effort. Pallet stackers are able to hold and lift loads of up to several thousand pounds to heights of several feet. Since these are very reliable and tough, the threat of accidents due to manual assistance is significantly lowered.

More on Lift and Load

Take note that pallet stackers have a lot of features reminiscent to that of a conventional forklift truck. On most occasions, they are considered as a type of forklift truck due to several similar mechanisms and parts like the forklift, raising and lowering actions and mobility. On the average, a stacker can lift loads and pallets anywhere from 1,000 to 8,000 pounds. Height capacity of lift is anywhere from a few inches off the floor to 8 feet. The stacker has forks or tines or a platform where loads will be placed for positioning and transfer.

Drive

Pallet stackers may be manually operated and powered or may run through other means like electricity or a hydraulic system. Manual pallet stackers usually use a hydraulic pump which applies great amounts of pressure to raise or lower the forks and loads. A lever or handle is located at the operator's cab requiring a simple squeeze to release or apply pressure. Electric drive pallets run via a motor usually with a motor with at least 6-horsepower, a battery and transmission. There are supportive measures in the drive like brakes and locks for added safety and security during loading and transport. It is possible for a pallet stacker to have electric lift and manual drive or vice-versa. Manual versions are easier to maneuver and less expensive to fully electric ones but they also take a lot more effort.

Choosing Your Stacker

A standard empty pallet weighs around 50 to 80 pounds. You should first consider the type and expected weight of usual loads to know the strength and load capacity of the model you'll get. Those with lower load capacities do not mean that they are less durable. You also get to save more space by getting the right stacker size compared to investing in the biggest versions available. Next, consider how high you intend to stack pallets. There are different height capacities so it would be better to choose one with at least one foot above your expectations.

When choosing a manual pallet stacker, you should properly train all operators to avoid unnecessary injuries and equipment damage due to overloading. The type of stacker you pick can be determined by the work routine and setting. Sometimes an electric drive pallet stacker may be a better option if you're handling over 10 pallets a day. The automated mechanism can prevent injuries and maximize time rather than let several workers keep muscling loads around.