Low Profile Pallet Truck FAQ Guide

Low profile pallet trucks are used in handling special and low pallets. The standard low-profile pallet trucks have a capacity of 1500kgs-5000kgs.

Table of Contents

• What are the types of low-profile pallet trucks?
• What are the characteristics of a low-profile pallet truck?
• What are the key benefits of a low-profile pallet truck?
• What are the demerits of a low-profile pallet truck?
• What are elements to consider before purchasing a low-profile pallet truck?
• What types of Industries require/uses low-profile pallet truck?
• What are the benefits of using low-profile pallet trucks?
• What are the requirements of operating low-profile pallet trucks?
• What maintenance is required for a low-profile truck?
• What are the safety guidelines when using low profile trucks?
• Who is the inventor of low-profile trucks?
• What are the weight range and prices range of different types of low-profile pallet trucks?
• What space does a low-profile pallet truck require?
• What are the main advantages of operating a low-profile pallet truck?
• How do I operate a low-profile pallet truck?
• What are operating instructions for low profile pallet trucks?
• How do you add hydraulic oil to the pump reservoir for a low profile pallet truck?
• What are the malfunctions and their solutions experienced by a low-profile pallet truck?
• What is the importance of the CE labeling on low profile pallet trucks from manufacturers?
• What to consider when renting a low-profile pallet truck?
• Does one incur other costs from rental agencies for low profile pallet trucks?
• Why is the certification of low-profile pallet trucks necessary?
• Where can one get low profile pallet truck training?
• What are the different models of low-profile pallet trucks?

What are the types of low-profile pallet trucks?

They are designed to handle special, low pallets. There are many versions of low-profile pallet trucks with different functions as described below,

Hand pallet truck

It is a hand-operated pallet truck with a capacity of 2300kgs.

A key feature when it comes to hand pallet trucks is durability. This is enhanced by a reinforced handle, strong forks made of thick steel.

A hand pallet truck is mainly used for handling and transport.

Features: High-quality construction steel with durable powder coating.

Easy to operate.

Minimum maintenance

3 position control, up, neutral, and down.

Electric pallet truck

It is a low lift truck with a capacity of 3000kgs. Key features that make it unique include:

It’s spring-mounted, has an adjustable center drive, has excellent operating safety and operating comfort. Electric pallet truck has the best quality and long service life, power saving.

Mostly used for handling and lifting loads.

Pallet trucks have powerful speeds hence save the operator’s time

since it’s fitted with long-lasting battery life and superb maneuverability.

Regenerative braking increases braking efficiency.

Minimum operational costs, with the provision of recommended service, thus cutting operation costs.

Electric pallet trucks are known for offering excellent maneuverability, control, and visibility.

Hydraulic pallets truck

It has forks drive underneath and lift them hydraulically with a capacity of 5000kgs.

For this type of pallet, the load is lifted using pump strokes and executed with a drawbar.

The advantage of this type is a well-proven, maintenance-free hydraulic system. Used mainly in lifting

This pallet truck is made from advanced quality materials and technology. The building components are corrosion resistant.

The following are pallet truck features;

• Smooth operation
• High efficiency
• High functionality
• The ergonomic design of the frame to reduce the operation effort
• Powder-coated body

What are the characteristics of a low-profile pallet truck?

A low-profile truck has a capacity of approximately 5000kgs.

It has slow-release hydraulic valving that assures the safe handling of heavy loads.

It has steer wheels that maintain proper load balance on the uneven floor.

It has a hand valve for optimum control.

The tips of its forks are fitted with rollers for easy loading, and off-loading

Trucks with nylon wheels are more durable, whereas polyurethane wheels are quieter and more smooth for use in an environment such as shop floors/public areas.

Low profile trucks are made of galvanized steel for use in harsh environments.

What are the key benefits of a low-profile pallet truck?

It is safe and comfortable while in operations.

Durability, as it has reinforced handles, strong forks made with thick steel.

It has a low cost of operation since it is energy-saving and environmentally friendly.

Having steer wheels maintain a proper load balance on the uneven floor.

It has the best quality and long service life.

What are the demerits of low-profile pallet truck?

Low oil levels. For the hydraulic system to function effectively, it uses hydraulic oil to generate lift pressure. When hydraulic oil is not at the optimum level, the truck develops a malfunction.

Poor lubrication. Low-profile pallet trucks have many moving parts that are accelerated and wear and tear off causing poor lubrication.

Need for frequent training. Different low profile pallet trucks come with their complexity; therefore, one needs training on how to use them effectively.

What are elements to consider before purchasing a low-profile pallet truck?

Size of the load- the load and pallet truck weight should be considered before purchase.

Budget cost- one should understand his /her budget cost against the market price. This helps to avoid overspending above the cost ability.

Durability- one should consider how durable the truck is before the purchase.

Environmental protection- the truck to be purchased must consider power or energy saving.

Height of the load and the pallet truck- the load’s height should be put into consideration before purchase.

User friendly- the low-profile pallet truck should be operated while observing all operation measures.

Location- determine whether the truck is based only on indoor or outdoor duties.

Certification- understanding of CE labeling of the product before any purchase

Training need- before purchase, get to know about the ability of the operator to use the truck effectively. Incase such skill lack in the company, training is essential before the purchase of the pallet truck.

Maintenance costs- after deciding on the type of pallet truck needed, understand the maintenance costs that may arise during operations.

What types of Industries requires/uses low-profile pallet truck?

Low profile pallet trucks are commonly used in busy industries that require heavy loading and off-loading loads. These industries include; manufacturing industries, food industries, construction industries, retail stores, and warehouses.

Manufacturing industries. Pallet trucks are mainly used for transportation, handling loads.

Food industries. The trucks are used for transportation and lifting loads from and to the industries, i.e. raw materials and ready products.

Construction industries. They are also used in moving material in and out of a construction area.

Rental and warehouses. The pallet trucks are essential in warehouses, as they are involved in lifting heavy loads from one area to another.

Most industries involving heavy loads embrace the use of pallet trucks.

Different low-profile pallet trucks are used based on the need, weight capacity, and load size.

With the use of low-profile pallet trucks, there is increased productivity and reduced operational cost in industries.

What are the benefits of using low-profile pallet trucks?

Their wheels are quieter and more smooth for use in an environment such a shop floors and public areas.

They increase efficiency and productivity due to their high speed.

Help in lifting heavy and large loads. Due to their capacity and durability

Easy to operate.

Increases productivity and reduces operational costs.

Increased efficiency.

Offer high functionality.

Offer protection from injuries as a result of operators are encouraged to be in protective clothing. Thus, fewer injury cases.

As the owner of the low-profile pallet truck, one can decide to rent pallet trucks to rental agencies at a fee.

Goods/product protection. When using pallet trucks, heavy loads have damage protection during transportation.

What are the requirements of operating low profile pallet trucks?

For industries to operate this type of truck, a certificate of operation is needed.

Training programs for operators is also necessary.

Other requirements include skills such as;

Loading and organization skills. One needs these skills as it helps in safety and effectiveness of work done.

Manual skills. They come in during operations and maintenance.

Protection clothes. The operator should have safety boots.

One should be able to follow and implement maintenance procedures.

Knowledgeable in safety and health standards

Have the ability to troubleshoot any problem arising from a low-profile pallet truck.

What maintenance is required for a low-profile truck?

Oil levels – when the oil levels are not at an optimal level, it exposes the hydraulic system to malfunctions. To solve this, ensure oil refilling is done once after every six months.

Lubrication- low profile pallet trucks come with moving parts that need proper care. A common issue here is the moving parts accelerates wear and tear due to poor lubrication.

To solve this, ensure lubrication happens every month to keep them in good shape.

Damaged wheels- mainly wheel damage is due to overloading. Ensure the truck carriers or lift the weight within its capacity to avoid overloading.

Ensure all brakes are functional without fault.

Ensure controls of loading and offloading are functioning.

Ensure all bolts and nuts are well fitted.

Environment issues- ensure that the truck operates on warm temperatures, this helps avoid cases where the pallet truck unfunctional due to its thick oil.

Worn out and torn out wheels- ensure wheel inspection is done regularly before use of the truck. Worn-out wheels also should be replaced once their life value is over.

Truck Parking- before parking the pallet truck, ensure the load is offloaded and forks are well placed. This helps forks and piston rod from corrosion exposure.

CE labels. Always ensure the CE labeling is intact and available at all times.

Weight capacity- ensure the pallet trucks lift the capacity weight. This avoids overloading the pallet truck.

Pallet truck control brakes- this should be done daily before operating the trucks. Helps identify any faults.

What are the safety guidelines when using low profile trucks?

• Safety guidelines include;
• Ensure all control brakes are functional.
• Ensure maintenance schedules such as lubrication, oil level inspection is done on time.
• Avoid flammable items/equipment when operating the truck.
• Ensure wear and tear-out wheels are replaced before using the truck.
• Weight capacity; Operating truck should always lift/carry load within its capacity.
• Protective clothing. Operators should ensure they have protective shoes or boots.

What are the weight range and prices range of different types of low-profile pallet trucks?

Low-profile pallet trucks come in different sizes, weights, and prices. They include:

Hand pallet truck.

Weight capacity of 2300kgs

The cost is between $ 99-129

Hydraulic pallet truck.

Weight capacity of 5000kgs

The cost is between $ 96-99

Electric pallet truck.

Weight capacity 3000kgs

The cost is between $ 117-126

What space does a low-profile pallet truck require?

Low profile pallet trucks can be used in warehouses, rental shops, and public areas. This depends on the size of the load and type of low-profile pallet truck as there are categories based on weight and height. Also, the design of the floor determines the space to be occupied by the profile pallet truck. Some comfortably function on an uneven floor, while others cannot function well on an uneven floor.  Also, the location on which the load is offloaded or loaded plays a key element to consider.

What are the main advantages of operating a low-profile pallet truck?

• A low-profile pallet truck requires minimum working space to move the load.
• Low profile pallet truck comes in various sizes and models that fit multiple works of lifting and moving goods.
• Low maintenance cost thus saves money and time. The truck needs only lubrication and wheels inspection.
• Promotes work productivity due to its speed and performance
• Reduced manpower costs as it requires one operator to operate it.
• Environmental protection. The trucks are operator-friendly and don’t emit harmful emissions to the environment. Thus, make it environment friendly.
• Less to no injury cases. The pallet truck helps avoid injuries that could have been experienced if the heavy load was to be lifted by workers.
• Time-saving. These pallet trucks due to their high speed and power save time.

How do I operate a low-profile pallet truck?

This is how-to operate low pallet truck for effective performance;

• It comprises a raised, neutral, and lower operating system.
• To raise forks, push the lever down and pump the handle up and down until the pallet reaches the desired height.
• Have a clear inch between the floor and pallet for sufficient movement of the load.
• When moving the load, engage the lever in a neutral/middle position making the handle free for hydraulic resistance and the forks remain in the raised position.
• Lower the forks by pulling the lever past the neutral position.
• Do not exceed the load capacity of the manufacturer’s
• Push the load so that the weight will be carried by the axle and not by the handle.

What are operating instructions for low profile pallet trucks?

• When operating the truck, the operator has to wear protective shoes/boots.
• The operating lighting should be at least 50 lux.
• Never leave the truck with a load. Ensure the load is offloaded before parking the truck.
• Parking- lower the fork to the lowest position i.e., level ground
• Lifting- check the load doesn’t exceed the loading capacity of the pallet truck. Roll the pallet forks under the load until the fork rest against it.
• Lowering and moving- lower the load by shift the operating lever up and releasing the lever. Ensure adequate space for offloading load.
• Weight capacity- before loading a pallet truck, know the weight capacity of the pallet truck and that of the load.

How do you add hydraulic oil to the pump reservoir for a low profile pallet truck?

• Lay pallet truck on either side. Position drain plug of the hydraulic cylinder up.
• Ensure forks are in a lowered position.
• Remove the screw plug
• Check the current oil level
• Add hydraulic oil until the level of oil is at the bottom of the hole.
• Replace drain plugs, upright the truck

What are the malfunctions and their solutions experienced by a low-profile pallet truck?

• Oil leakage – caused by cracked or worn-out parts. Replace damaged parts.
• Lowering of forks without the help of the control lever- caused by hydraulic components being worn out. Inspect and replace the worn-out parts.
• Forks don’t lower or don’t lower fully. This happens when the fork is left in a raised position for an extended period. This in turn leads to the piston rod becoming rusty. Keep the fork in the lowest position when not in use. The lubrication of the piston rod is also key.
• Forks don’t raise or slow raise. A major cause includes heavy load that is above the pallet capacity weight. Ensure the truck carriers or lift capacity weight. Another cause is low temperature making it difficult for oil pumps. Ensure the truck operates in a warm environment.

What is the importance of the CE labeling on low profile pallet trucks from manufacturers?

CE label on the product indicates that the manufactured product is assessed by the manufacturer and meets EU safety, health, and environmental standards.

The CE declaration of conformity must be carefully stored and made available to the responsible authorities.

What to consider when renting a low-profile pallet truck?

• Renting the truck, allows one to increase the productivity of the company in handling the material without incurring the upfront costs and maintenance costs.
• Weight capacity. This requires you to also know where the loads will be located to get the lift truck that can easily access the area.
• Lift height. measure out all the applicable heights before you go shopping for a rental lift truck.
• the superior the lift truck or its specialized functionalities, the more you will pay. You also should consider operational costs, since while you are spared maintenance costs you have to factor in costs like fueling the truck.
• Rental period. The duration of work determines the rental option to pick.
• Insurance cover. In most rental agencies, the insurance part is left to be catered by the operator. Understand the terms of rental services.

Does one incur other costs from rental agencies for low profile pallet trucks?

The following can be explained in two ways;

When the operator hires the truck, the rental agency covers the availability of the equipment needed but it’s upon the operator(company) to secure insurance for the period the equipment will be under their use.

This case when the operator owns the equipment and leads its services to rental agencies in this scenario, the agency covers all the costs within the period the machine is under their care. For any maintenance cost incurred, it is deducted from the total cost the machine had earned the owner.

Why is the certification of low-profile pallet truck necessary?

Certification of a low-profile pallet truck is important for both manufacturer and operator. The following explains the importance of certification;

• Understanding of inspections and routine maintenance for a low profile pallet truck.
• Ensuring all maintenance procedures and costs are put into consideration.
• To have a clear understanding of safety, health, and environmental protection requirements.
• Understanding how to effectively operate the truck.
• It also helps the operator understand the type of need for a particular operation.

Where can one get low profile pallet truck training?

The easiest way of training on low profile pallet trucks is by use of a manual sheet that comes with the product purchased. The manufacturing company of the product prepares a product manual that comes with instructions on how to operate and assemble the product safety guidelines and maintenance guide.

A trained operator can also offer training to the rest of the team on how to effectively operate the pallet truck.

What are the different models of low-profile pallet trucks?

Low-profile pallet trucks come in various models manufactured by different companies. Different model has different weight capacity and price.

Hand pallet truck

This type has a weight capacity of 2500kgs.

Has forks dimension that can handle common loads and pallets.

It has various models such as:

GS EVO Model: it’s designed for handling heavier loads

Its wheels are non-polyurethane for safe and silent movements of goods.

GS EVO 30 Model: Extremely tough, and resistant to harsh environmental conditions.

The pallet truck for heavy-duty application. Has capacity 3000kgs

GS EVO Silence model: it’s a silenced hand pallet designed to reduce noise emission, worse working conditions i.e., Rough and tilted surfaces. Ideal usage, deliveries, and supermarket stores.

GS EVO INOX Model: Designed to handle loads in humid conditions.

The ideal usage: chemical, pharmaceutical, food, and beverage industry. These industries require high hygienic standards.

Electric pallet trucks

This type is perfect for transport over medium distances.

It has two different models:

Electric pedestrian pallet truck model: Easy to handle. Extremely maneuverable and safe in every way.

Electric stand on and sideways seated stackers: this one can transport the load horizontally up to 2.0t