A Detailed Explanation of the Working Principle of Hand Pallet Trucks

In warehouses, supermarkets, factories, and other environments, one can often find a simple yet highly efficient material handling tool – the Hand Pallet Truck. Despite its compact design and ease of use, it helps workers easily move hundreds of kilograms of goods. Understanding the hand pallet truck working principle not only helps in using the equipment correctly but also extends its lifespan and improves work efficiency.

Basic Structure of a Hand Pallet Truck

A standard hand pallet truck is made up of the following components:

• Forks: Inserted into the bottom of the pallet to carry the load.

• Pump Handle/Control Handle: Used to control the lifting and direction.

• Hydraulic Pump: The key component that allows the forks to lift.

• Load Rollers: Located at the front of the forks, they support and move the pallet.

• Steering Wheel: Used to control the direction, usually connected below the control handle.

Hand Pallet Truck Working Principle

The core principle of a hand pallet truck is a combination of hydraulic lifting and lever mechanics. The basic operation can be broken down into three stages:

Inserting the Pallet

The operator pushes the pallet truck, inserting the forks under the pallet. It is important to ensure that the forks are fully inserted beneath both sides of the pallet.

Hydraulic Lifting Mechanism

When the operator pumps the control handle up and down, the hydraulic pump piston inside the truck is activated. The process works as follows:

• Each pump of the handle triggers the hydraulic boost circuit.

• Hydraulic oil is pushed into the piston chamber, raising the piston rod and lifting the entire fork structure.

• The forks rise, lifting the pallet and its load off the ground, typically to a height of 10–20 cm, which is enough for moving the load.

This hydraulic system is a single-acting hydraulic system, making it simple in design and reliable in operation.

Moving and Lowering

Once the load is lifted, the operator can push the pallet truck to move it to the desired location.

When the load reaches its destination, the operator pulls the release valve on the control handle, allowing the hydraulic oil to flow back, causing the piston to lower. This gradually brings the forks back down and allows the load to settle gently onto the ground.

Advantages of Hand Pallet Trucks

• Simple structure and easy operation

• No power source required, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly

• Low maintenance costs and minimal failure rates

• Suitable for various types of pallets and surfaces

Usage Tips

To ensure safe and efficient use of a hand pallet truck, the following points should be observed:

• Avoid overloading, as the typical weight limit is around 2 tons.

• Do not use the truck on ramps or uneven surfaces.

• Regularly check the condition of the hydraulic oil and wheels.

• Release pressure before pulling the forks out when unloading.

Understanding the  hand pallet truck working principle helps us use and maintain this equipment more effectively. Although its mechanism is simple, the hand pallet truck is an indispensable "helper" in material handling. With its low cost and high efficiency, it continues to play an important role in modern warehouse management.