Pete Thomas

Electric pallet jacks (EPJ) are versatile warehouse workhorses that can, in many cases, replace full-sized forklifts, allowing you to: 

• Optimize your space
• Decrease the risk of forklift-related incidents
• Increase your team’s efficiency

But not all pallet jacks are created equal. So, choosing the right one can depend upon a number of factors. We’ve chosen six features that we think paint a very clear picture of a pallet jack’s quality. Once we establish these factors, we’re going to narrow our focus and have a look at a pretty exciting and recent addition to our lineup - the Hangcha lithium-ion series light-duty walkie jack.

Downtime is something every material handling operation wants to avoid, but for food processing operations downtime is a dirty word. In today’s article, we’ll look at some of the best material handling equipment available for:
- commercial food processing
- cold storage warehouses
- food and beverage material handling

Learn more about the different options for loading dock sealing systems:

Built with a heavy steel cross supports, impact resistant side thrusters and a heavy duty planetary drive axel, the THDC Line doesn’t flinch. Load-sensing hydraulics and engine management systems ensure your forklift can rise to meet any challenge.

The right tools can make an enormous difference, and a pallet jack is one of these key pieces of equipment. A pallet jack can easily maneuver loads, and go where large forklifts can’t.

Electric pallet jacks take productivity to the next level with the benefit of an electric motor. In addition to helping the operator move loads, the motor assists with raising and lowering the forks. For this reason, electric pallet jack forks can be raised higher than manual pallet jack forks Electric pallet jacks can be used for several hours before they need to recharge and are a popular piece of equipment for warehouses, distribution centers, food and beverage facilities and operations with narrow aisles.

Learn more our year-end special pricing  on a Toyota Electric Pallet Jack and how to get a $500 rebate by trading in your old pallet jack.

Product Name: GEM ONE Sapphire Fleet Management System                           
Manufacturer: GEM ONE
Notable features:  Impact notifications, GPS (last know position outside), daily operator checklist, operator certification expiration notification (30-days prior), cellular-based (no WiFi required).
Price Range: $2,500 - $5,900  
Value for the money: Excellent
Options: 

• Ability to add up to 4 cameras per unit
• Fork Scale
• Pin Code or Key Fob Sign on Options 
• Indoor GPS (coming soon)
• Can be installed on propane or electric forklifts as well as many other pieces of equipment (golf carts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, etc.)
• Battery indicators (water levels & state of charge)

Best for: A fleet size of five or larger
Not recommended for: Extremely dirty or harsh (outdoor) conditions

In this article we’ll answer common questions about lithium-ion (L-I) forklift batteries including:
- How long does it take to charge a lithium-ion forklift battery and
- When are lithium-ion forklift batteries worth the extra cost?

On average, the cost to repair a  forklift is four times higher than the cost to properly maintain the equipment in the first place. Just like a car, you need to have a certified technician check your lift every 150 hours at least.

By maintaining your asset, you can prevent expensive, unexpected repairs and avoid downtime. Equipment in good working order is also safer for employees, and a well-maintained lift truck commands a higher resale value. Learn more about planned maintenance (PM) from TMH:

The loading area between the truck and the warehouse is one of the most hazardous areas for forklift operators and warehouse employees. Thousands of workers are injured or killed each year due to trailer creep, premature truck departures and sloppy placement. 

It’s a sad fact that safety measures aren’t considered until after a serious accident occurs. Many loading dock accidents can be prevented with a simple dock lock, also known as a vehicle restraint. A dock lock is inexpensive protection against a worst-case scenario, such as a forklift falling off the dock. It takes up very little space, and you may be able to get a discount on your insurance for being proactive about loading dock safety.

In order to load or unload a trailer, the warehouse needs a bridge to drive a forklift, pallet jack, or other material handling equipment over the gap. This is where a dock leveler (aka pit leveler) or edge-of-docks comes into play.