Types of Pallet Jacks: Pros and Cons You Should Know

Published September 10, 2025

If you move heavy items in a warehouse, store, or workshop, you’ve probably seen pallet jacks in action. Pallet jacks make it easier to move bulky things from one spot to another. But did you know there are many different types of pallet jacks? Each type has its own pros and cons, and picking the right one will make your job easier and safer.

In this simple guide, we’ll break down the main types of pallet jacks, what they do best, and what you should watch out for. By the end, you’ll know which option fits your needs.

What Are Pallet Jacks?

Pallet jacks (sometimes called pallet trucks or pump trucks) are tools made to lift and move heavy setups called pallets. With a pallet jack, you slide its forks under a pallet and use it to move the whole load without much heavy lifting. Most warehouse, retail, and factory workers use pallet jacks, since they help cut down on injuries and speed up work.

Types of Pallet Jacks and How They Work

Let’s look at the different types of pallet jacks and see what sets them apart.

Manual Pallet Jacks

Manual pallet jacks are the classic style most people know. They don’t need batteries or cords. You pump the handle up and down to lift the load using a simple hydraulic system. Then you pull or push the pallet jack to move the goods.

Pros of Manual Pallet Jacks:

• Very affordable: Manual pallet jacks are the cheapest type to buy or rent.
• No electricity needed: You can use them anywhere, even if power is out.
• Easy to maintain: Just keep the parts oiled and the wheels clean.
• Lightweight: They are easy to store and carry around.

Cons of Manual Pallet Jacks:

• More work for you: You’ll use muscle power to move heavy loads, which gets tiring.
• Lower weight limits: Most manual jacks can handle up to about 5,000 pounds, but heavy-duty jobs may need more.
• Slower operation: Moving lots of pallets by hand takes longer.
• Only for smooth floors: They work best on flat, even surfaces.

Electric Pallet Jacks

Electric pallet jacks use a battery and an electric motor to lift and move pallets. Some are “walkie” types, where you walk behind and steer them. Others are “rider” types, where you stand on a small platform and ride along as you work.

Pros of Electric Pallet Jacks:

• Easy to use: The motor does most of the lifting and moving for you.
• Move more, faster: You can transport more pallets in less time.
• Good for heavy loads: Some electric models can move up to 8,000 pounds or more.
• Better for big spaces: Rider types are great in large warehouses.

Cons of Electric Pallet Jacks:

• Higher price: They cost more upfront than manual jacks.
• Needs charging: You’ll have to keep the batteries charged and sometimes change them out.
• Extra maintenance: Electric models have more parts that can break or wear out.
• Some training: Operators need to learn how to use them safely.

Adjustable Width Pallet Jacks

These pallet jacks have forks that you can move closer together or farther apart. They are good for work sites with pallets of different sizes.

Pros:

• Works with all kinds of pallet sizes.
• Reduces the need for extra equipment.

Cons:

• Costs a little more.
• Changing the fork width can slow down work.

Weighing Scale Pallet Jacks

Some pallet jacks come with built-in scales. As you lift a pallet, you see its weight right away.

Pros:

• Saves you a step by lifting and weighing at the same time.
• Good for shipping and inventory.

Cons:

• Costs more than basic models.
• The scale can get damaged if not handled carefully.

Stand-Up and Rider Pallet Jacks

With these types, you ride on the jack instead of walking. This feature is ideal for moving loads over long distances inside big warehouses.

Pros:

• Less tiring, which means you get to ride instead of walking.
• Moves faster, so it saves a lot of time.

Cons:

• Needs more space to turn and operate.
• Costs more and may need special training.

All-Terrain Pallet Jacks

All-terrain jacks have bigger wheels and stronger frames. They are made for outdoor use and rough ground.

Pros:

• Can move loads on gravel, dirt, or uneven concrete.
• Built to handle tough jobs.

Cons:

• Too bulky for tight spaces indoors.
• More expensive than standard jacks.