Lithium-Ion Powered Pallet Jacks Are Here

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.

Warehouse Automation: 5 Reasons to Use an ASRS

Are you aware that your competitors are investing in warehouse automation? According to the worldwide sales of warehouse automation technologies, warehouse automation is projected to reach $22.5 billion by the end of 2021. Today, companies are automating their warehouses to cut costs and improve operational efficiency. In a modern warehouse, you'll see robots driving through racks, retrieving loads, and putting them on conveyor belts. 

There are many solutions like AGVs, AMRs, storage systems, picking solutions, and more. Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRSs) are one of those solutions for modern warehouses. They are computer-controlled systems that automatically place and retrieve loads from defined locations.

Below you will find 5 benefits of using automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) in your warehouse’s operations.

How to Calculate Forklift Aisle Width Minimums


For many businesses in California, making the most of your space is the key to profitability. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could maximize space by minimizing aisle widths, there's a simple formula you can use to calculate how small your aisles  can get while still using your existing forklifts. 

4 Ways to Protect Your Pallet Racking

Pallet rack uprights and beams are in constant danger of impact from forklifts and other material handling equipment. Even if product isn’t damaged during a collision, bent rack is an accident waiting to happen. Pallet racking protectors can easily pay for themselves by absorbing the brunt of an impact.

AGV vs. AMR: Which Robot Suits Your Warehouse Operations Best?

Have you ever wondered if those mobile robots would work in your warehouse? Technology innovations are pushing warehouse operations towards better efficiency and more effortless scalability. Warehouse automation strategies help improve process throughput, reduce operational costs, and offer a solution to the labor shortage.

Yet, every warehouse is unique in its layout, the number of employees, number of shifts, and material movement workflow. So how do you choose the best technology for your warehouse automation needs?

To help you pick the best mobile robots for warehouse automation, we had to analyze both options - Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) & Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR). Below you will find everything you need to know about these two solutions. It will help you make an intelligent decision when choosing between AMR and AGV robotics for your warehouse.

Top 7 Signs Your Pallet Racking May Fail

Sometimes when I’m writing a bid for used pallet racking, I see some pretty iffy rack setups. Occasionally, the manager will say, “our facilities guys put this up” (yes, unfortunately, I can tell). 

Other times, I’ll point to a paint scrape and ask, “how long ago did a forklift hit this rack?” and the manager looks surprised. Maybe it’s because I’ve been doing this for a while, but these danger signs just jump out at me.

People can die when racking collapses unexpectedly, so that’s why I want to share the top 7 warning signs your pallet rack is unsafe. We also offer free pallet racking safety inspections to help you uncover unreported damage and ensure your pallet racking meets local safety requirements.

Can Your Business Operate Without a Dock Leveler for 2-3 Months?

Dock levelers are essential at most warehouses and distribution centers. They create a bridge between trailers of different sizes and allow for fast, safe loading and unloading.

What would happen if you didn't have your dock leveler for three months? Due to supply shortages, the current lead time for a new dock leveler (also known as a pit leveler) is 14-16 weeks. Because TMHNC is a preferred vendor, we can often get a replacement in as little as 6-8 weeks. 

In any case, now is very bad time to have your dock leveler break. That's why we're offering free dock leveler safety inspections. It only takes an hour, and you can avoid months of hassle and lost productivity. NOTE: the request form is for a complete loading dock safety inspection, but we can focus on just your dock leveler if you prefer.

Not sure if your dock leveler needs to be inspected? Read on to review signs your dock leveler may need service and how long the average dock leveler should last if well-maintained.

Different Types of Pallet Racks for Warehouse Storage

Choosing the right pallet racking system can make a huge difference in your bottom line. A well-designed system can improve productivity, increase warehouse storage space by 40% or more, and help your operation adapt to changing inventory needs. It can be difficult to decide what type of pallet rack is best for your operation. Some people choose selective pallet rack because it's the cheapest, or they see it as the most versatile, but it's the wrong choice for certain operations. Read on to learn about common types of pallet racking systems and the best applications for each.

Pallet Racking: Customer Success Stories


Who you buy from is almost as important as what you buy. Think about your favorite restaurant, why do you go there? Sure, the food has a lot to do with it, but I bet the people do too.

Even if you don’t have a favorite local hangout, you've probably experienced what happens when you spend money with a business that doesn’t care about you. Cell phone companies, for example. You pay them hundreds of dollars every year, but if you have a problem with your phone, good luck getting someone to help you (unless of course you want to buy a new phone).

Automated Warehouse Systems: What is ASRS and How Can It Help?

Moving pallets and packages around your warehouse is not always easy. We know that managing a warehouse has many challenges for distribution center managers like you. Some of these challenges include high labor costs, low productivity and efficiency, and high safety risks for employees. 

To overcome these challenges, our clients have success with automated storage and retrieval systems or ASRS. Currently, more than 10% of warehouses in the US use automated warehousing equipment. What about yours?

But does your warehouse really need an automated warehouse system? How can they help your warehouse optimization efforts? Well, let’s learn what ASRS is, its use cases, its benefits, and more.

Industrial Shelving: Pallet Racking vs. Boltless Shelving

In California, space doesn’t come cheap. Whether you’re in the Bay Area, Sacramento or Central Coast, you’re likely paying more per square foot than a similar business in a neighboring state. That’s why it’s essential for California warehouses, distribution centers, and other businesses to maximize every inch of available space.

In this article, we’ll look at the two most common types of industrial shelving: pallet racking and boltless shelving. In just a few minutes, you’ll know which is the best option for your business. 

Short on time? Contact us for a free, zero pressure, expert consultation.

Warehouse Racking Permits in California - Know Before You Buy

Many California cities (Folsom, San Jose, West Sacramento, Dublin, Richmond and others) require a permit for warehouse racks taller than 5’ 9”. The state of California also requires warehouse pallet racks meet seismic (earthquake) code. Before you buy pallet racks from the east coast, Canada, or elsewhere, find out what you need to know about installing pallet racks, or other warehouse shelving.

What to Do When You Run Out of Warehouse Space

It’s a good news / bad news situation when a warehouse runs out of space. The good news is that your operation is successful, but the bad news is: expansion can be expensive. A move means massive downtime, and if you expand, it’s a huge capital investment. But there is another option: find or create new space in your existing building.

Here are the most common ways to maximize your warehouse space:

Buying Used Pallet Racking in California - What Businesses Need to Know

If you’re running out of space in your warehouse, distribution center, or other facility, adding pallet racking is a cost-effective solution. A custom shelving system allows you to:

  • Maximize storage space
  • Utilize (rather than pay for) empty air 
  • Avoid moving to a larger facility

Still, it’s a Catch 22. You have to spend money to save money. In the competitive warehousing and logistics industry, businesses may not have the capital to invest in a brand new pallet racking system. So what can you do?

One solution is to sell your existing pallet rack and use the proceeds to buy new racking custom-made for your space. Used pallet racking can be a good way to save money, or lose thousands. Read on to learn how to avoid common pitfalls when buying used pallet racking.

Loading Dock Seals and Shelters - Small Cost, Big Value


Sealing systems such as dock seals and shelters are a relatively low-cost investment that offer significant benefits in energy cost savings and loading dock safety. By enclosing the gap between the trailer and the dock door, parked trailers become secure, climate-controlled extensions of your facility. The right sealing system prevents outside weather (heat, cold, rain/snow) from entering your facility and damaging cargo. In addition to reducing heating and cooling costs, you maintain a clean, dry dock area and reduce the chance of a slip-and-fall accident. An enclosed dock area also means pests and vermin stay outside where they belong.

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

5 Tips to Improve Your Loading Dock Safety and Efficiency

Loading dock managers are relentless workers. They strive to meet ever-growing productivity targets and minimize downtime, invest in new material handling equipment, and hire more personnel. Their crew adheres to an aggressive loading and unloading schedule.

While productivity is top of mind, safety at the loading dock is often an afterthought. Managers are pressed into cutting corners with safety and overlook hazardous situations. But that doesn't have to be the reality for your loading dock.

How Dock Levelers Drastically Improve Loading Dock Safety

When a truck backs up to your receiving area, it’s unlikely the trailer will be at the exact same height as your loading dock. That gap between the trailer and your warehouse floor is a prime location for injury and equipment damage. 

Dock levelers, also known as edge of dock levelers or pit levelers, bridge the gap (in height and distance) between the floor and the trailer for smooth and safe loading and unloading. Learn about the most popular types of dock levelers used in the Bay Area, Central and Northern California, so you can choose the best dock leveler for your facility.

4 Signs Your Loading Dock Isn’t As Safe As You Think

A loading dock is a fast-paced and dangerous environment. Around 25% of all reported warehouse injuries occur on loading docks. Hundreds of near-misses precede each hazard. Forklift accidents cost employers an average of $48,000 per injury and $1,390,000 per death, according to the National Safety Council.

As a manager, putting safety first should be your top priority. In this article, we will cover four common and often overlooked signs of a hazardous loading dock.

Warehouse Optimization - 3 Customer Success Stories

Ever wondered whether your operation would benefit from pick-to-light technology, a new slotting system, or other optimization solutions? Is it worth the time, expense and hassle?

The short answer is yes. The right solution pays for itself in months (not years), and an experienced partner can help you transition without a major disruption to your business. Here are a few customer success stories:

AS/RS - A Single Solution to Many Warehouse Optimization Problems

Picture one of your performance reports. Imagine what it would look like to see:

    • Throughput up 30-50%
    • Labor costs down 40%
    • Order accuracy improved to 99%

The numbers above are actual stats from real clients. These could be your stats, and you don’t have to turn your business upside down to see improvements like the ones above.

In today’s product review, we’re going to look at SRSI’s automated pallet racking systems and the benefits of converting some (or all) of your facility to an automated shelving system.

5 Ways to Optimize Your Warehouse (Solutions That Pay for Themselves in Months, Not Years)

Warehouse managers wear a lot of hats (sometimes literally), and make more decisions in one hour than other managers make in a week. When you're everyone's go-to person, it's hard to knock things off your to-do list. For example, you know there are ways your operation could be saving time and money, but haven't found time to look into it.

While you're busy doing the things only you can do, let us uncover ways for your operation to save time and money. Here are some of the most popular solutions we offer (there's one we like to call the stealth bomber):

8 Money-Saving Reasons to Run an Eco-Friendly Facility

Green logistics and sustainable warehouse best practices aren’t just good for the environment, they’re good for business. Lowering your energy bills and minimizing waste can also increase profit margins.

Implementing sustainable business practices is easier than you may think. Here's how you can earn more green by going green:

3 Products to Improve Warehouse Safety and Reduce Product Damage

Avoiding stock damage, preventing injuries and improving efficiency - that’s the trifecta for warehouse managers. In this article, we’ll share some products our customers in The Bay Area, Sacramento, Salinas and Fresno tell us they can’t live without.

Pallet Rack Versus Floor Stacking


Some people think if they can stack pallets double or triple high on the floor, there's no benefit to investing in a pallet racking system. This is only true if:
  1. You don’t need to move the pallets often
  2. All stacked pallets have the same product
  3. The product can support the weight of additional pallets without being crushed
  4. The products don’t expire/don’t need to be FIFO’d (first in first out)

If all four of these things apply to your products, pallet racking may not be a cost-effective choice. For everyone else, the right pallet racking system can help you maximize warehouse space, dramatically improve productivity and reduce costs. Read on to learn the pros and cons of pallet racking versus floor stacking.

Product Review: High Density Polyethylene Pallets

Product Name:  ProGenic Heavy Duty Pallet
Manufacturer: PSI
Load Ratings: Static Load Ratings of 20,000 lbs, Dynamic load ratings of 5,000 lbs 
Notable feature(s): Lightweight, non-halogen, FM approved, FDA compliant, grommets and 6” or 5” models. The optional interrupted perimeter lip keeps product from shifting during transit.  
Price Range: $90 - $100 each
Value for the money: Excellent

Plastic Pallets are ideal for: food processing plants, vineyards, beverage companies & pharmaceutical applications

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