Stainless Steel vs Galvanised Pallet Trucks; Which Is Best For Your Environment?
Pallet trucks operate in some of the most challenging environments when handling products in cold storage facilities, food manufacturing facilities, or chemical facilities. Corrosion resistance is essential due to the high levels of moisture, freezing temperatures, and strict hygiene requirements.
Although both stainless steel and galvanised pallet trucks are made to withstand these difficulties, the best option for you will rely on your environment, maintenance schedule, and long-term financial objectives.
See our page for additional information on the value of stainless steel in demanding industries:
Why You Should Use Stainless Steel in Pharmaceutical and Food Industries
Why Corrosion Resistance Matters
To put it simply, mild-steel pallet trucks aren't made to withstand cold or moisture. When paint is exposed to moisture or cleaning agents, it begins to chip, posing a risk to hygienic conditions, corrosion, and seized hydraulics.
Stainless steel and galvanised options have been the go-to option for the food, pharmaceutical, and outdoor industries because they offer long-term protection and smoother performance where standard versions fall short.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of stainless steel in industrial equipment:
What is a Galvanised Pallet Truck?
The mild steel used to make a galvanised pallet truck is covered in a zinc layer to prevent rust. Because of its coating, it is perfect for locations that are moist or semi-wet, like loading bays, outdoor storage areas, and humid warehouses.
Although it lacks the complete corrosion resistance required for use with food or in a freezer, it is a perfect compromise between standard and stainless steel types, providing far more protection than painted trucks.
Visit our blog to find out more about maintaining stainless and galvanised models:
How to Maintain Stainless Steel Pallet Trucks and Galvanised Pallet Trucks
Check out our Galvanised Pallet Truck here:
What Is a Stainless Steel Pallet Truck?
Stainless steel pallet trucks are made entirely of corrosion-resistant material, so there is no coating to erode over time like galvanised models do. They won't rust or deteriorate even after being exposed to cleaning agents, excessive humidity, and daily washdowns.
This makes them perfect for cold or freezer settings where durability and hygienic conditions are crucial, as well as for the production of food and beverages and pharmaceutical facilities.
More information about why stainless steel is the better choice can be found at:
To check our Stainless Steel Pallet Truck, click here:
Stainless Steel Hand Pallet Truck - STSPT
Stainless Steel Pallet Trucks;LTMA20S Range
Galvanised and Stainless Steel: A Comparison
Both have a place in terms of long-term performance, but they work best in different settings.
· For normal warehousing and moist situations, galvanised pallet trucks are an affordable option.
· However, stainless steel pallet trucks are the best option for cold or food-safe settings due to their exceptional corrosion resistance, hygienic compliance, and durability.
You might also enjoy:
When to Use Stainless Steel Pallet Trucks Over Galvanised Pallet Trucks
And for a broader overview of how these materials compare across the industry, we recommend this external article:
Everything You Need to Know About Stainless Steel and Galvanised Pallet Trucks;SHS Handling Solutions
The Complete Cost-Benefit Analysis
Let's see what takes place in actual situations:
Standard pallet trucks, which range in price from £200 to £400 depending on size and specifications, are used in many warehouses. These trucks usually corrode or seize after two to three months in wet or cold settings, necessitating up to four replacements annually. That comes to between £800 and £1,600 a year before deducting disposal or lost productivity.
In contrast, a stainless steel pallet truck typically costs between £900 and £1,400, but with the right maintenance, it can last for four to five years. When spread out over time, that comes to a mere £180 to £350 annually, without the risk of contamination or ongoing downtime.
Galvanised pallet trucks fall somewhere in the centre; they are a little more expensive than regular models and usually last 6 to 12 months. They provide decent protection in conventional warehouse settings, but they are less dependable in chemical washdown or deep-freeze circumstances.
For further insight into stainless steel’s durability and food-safe benefits, read:
Why You Should Use Stainless Steel in Pharmaceutical and Food Industries
Maintenance and Longevity
Pallet trucks made of stainless steel or galvanised steel require far less maintenance than those made of painted steel.
To maintain them functioning properly, a simple cleaning and routine hydraulic inspection are typically sufficient. Although we do recommend servicing to be arranged to ensure they stay productive.
But when it comes to long-term durability, stainless steel triumphs because it won't rust, flake, or degrade even after years of frequent washings.
For maintenance best practices, see our guide:
How to Maintain Stainless Steel Pallet Trucks and Galvanised Pallet Trucks
Should you choose Galvanised or Stainless Steel Pallet Trucks?
This truly depends on your warehouse environment and uses for the pallet truck. However, it can be summarised like so:
· Galvanised: For general operations where cost control is crucial, such as outside yards or damp warehouses.
· Stainless steel: For applications requiring hygienic conditions, durability, and compliance, such as cold storage, food production, or pharmaceuticals.
Stainless steel will pay for itself many times over if your equipment is subjected to constant dampness or cleaning, but both are substantial improvements above regular steel.
Read More on Stainless Steel and Corrosion Resistance
If you’d like to explore more before making your decision, we recommend:
- Why Stainless Steel?
- Why You Should Use Stainless Steel in Pharmaceutical and Food Industries
- How to Maintain Stainless Steel and Galvanised Pallet Trucks
- When to Use Stainless Steel Pallet Trucks Over Galvanised Pallet Trucks
- Everything You Need to Know About Stainless Steel and Galvanised Pallet Trucks;SHS Handling Solutions
Final Thoughts
Selecting the ideal pallet truck is an investment in equipment durability, efficiency, and cleanliness that goes beyond simple buying. Corrosion resistance can significantly impact your bottom line whether you work in cold storage, pharmaceutical logistics, or food production.
Ready to invest in pallet trucks that last?
Contact Liftruck UK today for expert advice on selecting the right stainless steel or galvanised pallet truck for your environment.
Call 0800 458 8025 or email info@liftruck.co.uk to speak with our team and find the perfect model for your application.
