Electric Pallet Trucks: The Smartest Move in Warehouse Material Handling

What Are Electric Pallet Trucks?

Electric pallet trucks, also known as powered pallet jacks or powered pump trucks, are motorized tools used to lift and move pallets with minimal manual effort. Unlike their hand-operated counterparts, these trucks run on batteries and are equipped with electric motors for movement and lifting.

They’re an essential part of any warehouse material handling equipment setup, boosting productivity while reducing labor strain.

Why Use Electric Pallet Trucks?

Here’s why electric pallet trucks are making waves in logistics, e-commerce, and manufacturing:

• Effortless Operation
  The motorized design cuts physical strain and enhances speed.

• Improved Safety
  Built-in sensors, emergency brakes, and ergonomic controls reduce workplace injuries.

• Increased Throughput
  Move more pallets faster with consistent performance.

• Energy Efficient
  Rechargeable batteries last up to 8 hours—ideal for full shifts.

Interlink: Learn how a hand operated pallet truck compares in cost and flexibility.

Key Features to Look For

• Load Capacity: Usually ranges from 1,200 kg to 3,500 kg

• Battery Type: Lead-acid or lithium-ion

• Lift Height: Typically up to 200mm

• Drive Type: Walk-behind or rider

• Controller: Intuitive handles with speed control, horn, and brake buttons

Related: Check out our best pallet stackers guide for vertical lifting needs.

Types of Electric Pallet Trucks

• Walkie Electric Pallet Truck: These trucks are ideal for use in small warehouses. Operators walk behind and steer.

• Rider Electric Pallet Truck: Includes a platform for the operator. This truck is perfect for handling large-scale operations.

• Counterbalance Electric Pallet Truck: The Counterbalance Electric Pallet Truck finds its use in confined spaces where it is crucial to handle front-loads.

• Lithium-Ion Pallet Truck: Lightweight, fast-charging, and low-maintenance.

Also Read: How the bopt machine is revolutionizing large-scale warehousing.

Industry Applications

Electric pallet trucks find widespread use in the following industries:

• Warehouses and distribution centers

• Supermarkets and retail stores

• Cold storage and food logistics

• E-commerce fulfillment centers

• Manufacturing plants

They’re especially useful in last-mile transport inside large indoor facilities.

Electric vs. Hand-Operated Pallet Trucks

(*Note: All costs mentioned above are estimates and can change with time.)

Top Brands & Models in India (2024-2025)

• Stakon India: Stakon is a venture of JREW Engineering Limited, a group of companies with a history spanning nearly five decades in engineering products. JREW made a humble foray into the world of engineering way back in 1973 during the days of bright bar manufacturing and special steel profiles' trading. Currently, JREW prides itself on providing high-quality engineering solutions with light-, medium-, and medium-fabricated, precision-machined parts to serve a diverse range of industries, including production equipment, agricultural machinery, and railways. We have state-of-the-art machines tactically commissioned in manufacturing units spread across North India to best serve our customers.

These brands offer top-notch after-sales support, spare parts availability, and customization for Indian warehouses.

Battery & Charging Tips

• Always use the OEM charger

• Don’t overcharge—use smart timers

• Avoid deep discharge cycles

• Charge in a ventilated area

• Lithium-ion batteries = longer life + faster charging

Benefits of Switching to Electric Pallet Trucks

• Higher productivity per shift

• Reduced workplace injuries

• Lower long-term labor costs

• Consistent operational output

• Environmentally friendly

Maintenance Checklist

• Daily brake and horn check

• Weekly battery health check

• Wheel alignment and wear test

• Clean contact points regularly

• Annual technician inspection

Future Trends

• IoT-enabled pallet trucks

• Smart sensors for obstacle avoidance

• App-based fleet diagnostics

• Solar-charged batteries for remote sites

• Integration with WMS and RFID

Bonus: Electric pallet trucks are now being paired with AI and AGVs for complete automation.

10 People Also Ask (FAQs)

1. What is the use of electric pallet trucks?
   They are used for lifting and transporting pallets with electric assistance.

2. How much load can they carry?
   Depending on the model, they can typically carry loads ranging from 1.2 to 3.5 tons.

3. Are electric pallet trucks safe?
   Yes. Most come with emergency brakes, a horn, and overload protection.

4. Which industries use them?
   Warehousing, retail, food logistics, e-commerce, and pharma.

5. Are they better than manual pallet trucks?
   Indeed, they are superior to manual pallet trucks for larger operations. They're faster, safer, and more efficient.

6. Are they suitable for outdoor use?
   They can only be used on smooth, flat surfaces. They are not appropriate for use on gravel or inclined ramps.

7. Do they need a license to operate?
   No formal license, but basic training is advised.

8. What’s the average cost in India?
   From ₹90,000 for basic models to ₹3.5 lakh for premium units.

9. How long does the battery last?
   6–8 hours of continuous use per charge.

10. What is the difference between electric and powered pump trucks?
    They are the same—“powered pump truck” is another term for electric pallet truck.