Safety and Pre-Operation Checks
Before moving any material, a thorough inspection of both the environment and the equipment is necessary. Confirm that pathways are clear of debris, spills, or any obstructions that could impede the jack’s movement or cause the operator to trip. Always operate the jack on flat, level surfaces, as even slight inclines can introduce stability risks when carrying a heavy load.
A quick assessment of the pallet jack itself involves checking that the wheels roll freely without binding and that no hydraulic fluid is leaking onto the floor. The operator should also confirm the pallet’s weight is within the equipment’s rated capacity, which is typically stamped on the jack’s body. Appropriate personal protective equipment, such as steel-toed footwear, should be worn to mitigate the risk of foot injuries should the forks accidentally drop.
Getting Acquainted with the Controls
The primary function of the pallet jack is controlled by a small lever located near the handle’s base, which manages the hydraulic system. This lever has three distinct settings that correspond to the jack’s operational modes. The “Lift” or “Pump” position is activated when the lever is pulled fully upward, engaging the hydraulics as the user pumps the handle.
The center position is designated as “Neutral” or “Travel,” which disengages the hydraulic mechanism completely. Finally, pushing the lever fully downward engages the “Lower” or “Release” function, which opens the hydraulic valve to allow the forks to descend back to floor level.
Engaging and Lifting the Load
To begin the lifting process, approach the pallet squarely, ensuring the pallet jack’s forks are aligned perfectly with the pallet opening. The operator must push the forks completely into the pallet until the back of the jack contacts the pallet’s stringer board, confirming the load is fully supported. Partial insertion can lead to uneven weight distribution and potential material damage or slippage.
Once the forks are fully beneath the load, move the control lever to the “Lift” or “Pump” position. The operator then uses the main handle to pump the hydraulic mechanism in a smooth, continuous motion. Pumping raises the forks incrementally, and it typically takes between 10 to 15 full strokes to lift an average pallet completely off the ground.
The objective is to raise the load just high enough so that it is clearly above the floor and can be moved without dragging. After the load is lifted, the operator must immediately return the control lever to the “Neutral” position before attempting any movement.
Transporting the Load Safely
With the load secured and the lever in the “Neutral” position, the operator can begin the process of moving the pallet. It is generally safer and provides far better control to pull the loaded jack behind the operator rather than pushing it. Pulling allows the operator to face the direction of travel, offering improved visibility of the path and the surrounding area.
Steering the jack is accomplished by turning the main handle, which directs the steer wheels attached to the hydraulic mechanism. Movement should be slow, steady, and deliberate, especially when navigating turns or congested areas, to prevent the load from shifting. The operator should maintain awareness of the turning radius and ensure their feet remain clear of the wheels and the descending forks during transit.
Lowering and Removing the Jack
When the destination is reached, the final step involves carefully setting the load down and removing the equipment. The operator moves the control lever all the way down to the “Lower” or “Release” position, which opens the hydraulic valve and allows the forks to descend slowly. It is important to avoid dropping the load quickly, as this can damage the pallet, the material, or the floor surface.
Once the load is resting firmly on the floor, the operator pulls the handle to remove the empty forks straight out from under the pallet. The jack should then be parked in a designated, low-traffic area, ensuring the forks are fully lowered to prevent a tripping hazard.