When Should You Upgrade from a Manual to an Electric Pallet Truck?

Hayley Timns April 16, 2026 General, Equipment Leave a comment 0 View

The decision between an electric pallet truck and a manual pallet truck can have a significant impact on warehouse operations when it comes to transferring pallets effectively. Although each alternative has advantages, the best choice for you will rely on your workload, environment, and financial situation. We at Liftruck UK provide a large selection of pallet trucks made to satisfy various commercial requirements.

Manual Pallet Truck – Definition & Uses

The most commonly used type of pallet-handling equipment is a manual pallet truck, which moves pallets by raising the forks with a handle pump.

How do you operate a manual pallet truck?

1. Flick down on the lever of the handle to engage lifting mode.

2. Pump the tiller hand to raise the pallet.

3. Transport the pallet to the desired location.

4. Once the pallet is in position, squeeze the lever to lower the pallet and then withdraw the pallet truck.

If you are a visual learner see here for the video tutorial with our PMPT-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BzcNR-T54I

What are the benefits of a manual pallet truck?

They are not only easy to build as seen by this video, but also easy to fix. Because of their low cost, they are the best choice for companies searching for reasonably priced handling solutions. They are a simple but hardwearing piece of equipment with minimal parts to service. If looked after and serviced yearly they can last for years in your operations. Last but not least, they are ideal for smaller warehouse or occasional use.

You can get a range of different sizes and types ranging from the simplest design of the PMPT, a more complex one such as the adjustable pallet truck and even be shorter and wider (the printers pallet truck) or longer (the long mover pallet truck). If your pallets are lower, you can also get a low profile pallet truck.

Due to the simplicity of the base design and mechanics, they come in so many ranges for your needs and can be used all day as you don’t need to charge them.

What are the drawbacks of a manual pallet truck?

While the design is simple yet efficient, they require more physical effort to use. While it makes lifting pallets easier, heavy loads can still cause strain on your warehouse workers if it is frequent. They are less efficient over long distances, long continuous hours of lifting or heavy frequent use.

This can be reduced with the pro lifter design which reduces the starting force needed by up to 67%. This helps reduce strain but has similar drawbacks for long distances.

What is an Electric Powered Pallet Truck?

An Electric Pallet Truck eliminates the need for manual labour by lifting and moving pallets using a battery-powered motor.

How do you operate an Electric Powered Pallet Truck?

1. Ensure the battery is on plugged in and switched on.

2. Turn on the power and insert the key.

3. Use the thumb switches to move forward while using the handle to steer

4. Activate the lift button to raise and lower the load.

a. On some powered pallet truck, it has electric powered lifting but manual lowering meaning you’ll need to squeeze the trigger on the handle.

5. To stop, use the break.

6. Be sure to turn off the battery and take out the key once finished with the equipment.

7. If needed unplug and take out the battery from the pallet truck to charge it.

See here for a video tutorial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhWq8Q8RX1c

What are the benefits of an Electric Pallet Truck?

The main benefits include reducing strain on operators with faster and more efficient usage for more frequent use. With this increase efficiency- it makes the Powered Pallet truck excellent for larger warehouse and distribution centres. They can reduce risk of injuries from lifting in the work place, which according to Unison can add to 300,000 people every year in the UK that suffer from back pain as a result of manual handling accidents.

Powered pallet trucks can help reduce risks of manual handling to “the lowest level reasonably practicable” with the right training.

What are the drawbacks of a powered pallet truck?

Powered pallet trucks have a higher initial cost ranging from £895 to over £1000 plus VAT. Specification varies with price but most commonly they have 1500-2000kg capacity with standard fork sizes (1150 long). They don’t come in a huge range of models unless you order a bespoke item. They do however fit regular pallets.

They require charging after use- the frequency of charging needed varies by model. Luckily you can get a spare battery that allows you to switch over seamlessly and not lose any operating time.

Furthermore, it is recommended that they get serviced at lead once a month. Due to it having more components and aspects than a manual pallet truck- this is a must if you want the pallet truck to last.

Manual vs Electric Pallet Trucks – Comparison Table

Feature	Manual Pallet Truck	Electric Pallet Truck
Cost	Lower Initial Investment	Higher Upfront cost
Ease of Use	Requires manual effort	Powered movement- less strain
Maintenance	Minimal servicing required- but it is recommended	Battery and electrical upkeep as well as servicing recommended
Best for	Small/medium warehouse	Large warehouses and frequent use
Mobility	Simple, versatile	Best for smooth, open spaces
Variety	Countless sizes, specifications and more.	Generally similar sizes but bespoke options are available.

Which Pallet truck is Right for You?

If you have a smaller location, utilise pallet trucks seldom, or need a low-maintenance, low-cost alternative, go for a manual pallet truck.

If you run a busy warehouse, move big pallets on a daily basis, or wish to increase productivity and lessen operator fatigue, go for an Electric Pallet Truck.

Liftruck UK’s Pallet Truck range

To accommodate all kinds of operations, Liftruck UK carries both manual and electric pallet trucks. Our line is designed to provide durability, safety, and value, whether you're looking for a fully powered electric model for high-demand settings or a low-cost manual model for daily work.

Final Thoughts

The best option for you will rely on your workload, available space, and long-term objectives. Both electric and manual pallet trucks have significant benefits. You may choose the best option for your warehouse by balancing cost, efficiency, and operator safety.

For your handling requirements, Liftruck UK offers both manual and electric pallet trucks, depending on your preference for ease of use or efficiency.