Whether you’re new to warehouse operations or just switching to electric pallet trucks, understanding how to use them safely and efficiently is key. At Grant Handling, we’re committed to making your material handling smarter, faster, and safer — and that starts with knowledge.
To operate an electric pallet truck, employees must have adequate training which involves an assessment and a certification. The training covers practical skills, equipment knowledge, risk awareness and how to use it safely.
What is an Electric Pallet Truck?
The pallet truck, also known as the pump truck or pallet jack is simply a motorised tool used to lift and move pallets over short distances. They’re ideal for use in warehouses, retail, logistics and more where speed, efficiency and operator comfort matter.
Getting Started – Knowing Your Truck
Before using an electric pallet truck, take a few moments to familiarise yourself with the key parts:
- Tiller Arm – Your main control handle for steering, accelerating, and braking.
- Lift/Lower Buttons – Used to raise and lower the forks beneath the pallet.
- Drive Motor – Powers the truck forward and backward with minimal physical effort.
- Emergency Stop Buttons – Instantly cuts power in case of an emergency.
Checks Before You Start
Inspect Your Truck
- Ensure the battery is secure
- Check for any damage
- Nuts and bolts are tightened
- Exposed wires or broken hoses
Turning It On
- Turn it on using the key provided
- Check the control panel for any warning lights
- Ensure the battery is charged
- Test the emergency brake
- Test the lifting and lowering buttons work
Lifting and Moving
- Use the tiller arm to move the truck in front of the pallet
- Use the lower button to lower the forks and slide them fully underneath the pallet
- Use the lift button to raise the forks just enough to clear the ground – ensure the load is stable
- Push the tiller arm backwards or forward gently to move the truck
- Steer smoothly, avoiding sudden stop or sharp turns and keep a clear view in front watching out for people or obstacles
- Once in position, lower the forks fully and reverse the forks from the pallet
Parking and Charging
- Park the truck in a safe area
- Lower the forks fully
- Switch the power off using the key provided
- Take out the battery and put on charge if needed
Tips for Safe Operation and Correct Usage
- When walking with the load, always make sure you are to the side of it and slightly ahead, this way you get the best visibility
- Take the battery out and put it on charge when not in use to extend battery life and to avoid discharging the battery
- Never use the pallet truck on more than a 5% gradient if loaded and 10% if unloaded
- Never exceed the truck’s load capacity
Do You Need Training?
Grant Handling offer fully accredited training courses at your facility or ours.
At Grant Handling, we supply a range of Electric Pallet Trucks, available in different capacities and fork dimensions to cater for all operations. They are designed to boost productivity, reduce strain on operators and cut overall handling costs.