A pallet jack, also known as a pallet truck, is an essential tool used in warehouses, factories, and retail environments for lifting and moving palletized goods over short distances. Whether you're using a manual or electric pallet jack, learning the correct way to operate it helps prevent injury and ensures the safety of your goods. Here's a step-by-step guide to using a manual pallet jack safely and effectively.

1. Identify Key Parts of the Pallet Jack

Before operating, familiarize yourself with the basic components:

• Handle/Steering Arm: Used for pushing, pulling, and steering.

• Prongs (Forks): The two metal arms that slide under a pallet to lift it.

• Control Lever: Typically located on the handle, this lever controls the lifting and lowering functions.

• Up position: Raises the forks when you pump the handle.

• Down position: Lowers the forks.

• Neutral position: Allows you to move the jack without raising or lowering.

2. Position Yourself Properly

Stand behind the pallet jack with both hands on the steering handle, facing the direction where the forks (prongs) are pointing outward. Maintain a stable stance and ensure there are no obstructions in your path.

3. Lower the Forks

Locate the plastic or metal release lever on the handle. This is usually easy to identify—sometimes it's a different color or slightly raised for quick access.

• Pull the release lever inward and upward to lower the forks.

• The forks should lower until they are approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the ground.

• If the forks do not move, they may already be in the lowered position.

4. Insert the Forks into the Pallet

Push the lowered forks all the way under the pallet. Be sure that:

• The forks are centered and aligned with the pallet openings.

• The front wheels go completely under and rest on the floor, not on the wooden slats.

• If the forks are too high to slide in easily, check the lever again and ensure they’re fully lowered.

Proper insertion is crucial to keep the load stable and prevent damage or tipping during transport.

5. Lift the Pallet

Once the forks are fully inserted:

• Return the lever to the neutral position.

• Pump the handle up and down. This activates the hydraulic system, which raises the forks—and the pallet—off the ground.

• Continue pumping until the pallet is high enough to move without dragging or scraping.

6. Move the Load Safely

• Use both hands to guide the handle and steer carefully.

• Pull rather than push whenever possible, especially over short distances or inclines. This gives you better control and reduces strain on your body.

• Watch for obstacles, uneven surfaces, or tight corners.

7. Lower the Pallet at the Destination

Once you've reached the drop-off point:

• Pull the release lever to slowly lower the pallet to the floor.

• When the forks are fully lowered, gently pull the pallet jack backward to slide the forks out from underneath the pallet.

Safety Tips

• Always wear safety shoes to protect your feet.

• Do not exceed the weight limit of the pallet jack (typically shown on the handle).

• Never ride on a manual pallet jack.

• Ensure the load is balanced before lifting or moving it.

• Keep your path clear and maintain awareness of other workers or equipment.

Using a pallet jack may seem simple, but proper technique ensures smooth operation and prevents accidents. With these steps, you can handle palletized goods safely and confidently in any work environment.