Manual hydraulic forklifts, also known as pallet jacks or hand pallet trucks, are essential material handling tools widely used in warehouses, factories, logistics centers, and retail environments. They are designed for lifting, moving, and positioning palletized loads over short distances without the need for external power sources, relying instead on manual operation and hydraulic mechanisms. Below is a comprehensive introduction to their use:

1. Basic Structure & Components

Fork Arms (Load Wheels): Two parallel steel forks that slide under pallets to lift and transport loads.

Hydraulic Pump Handle: Operated by pumping up and down to raise the forks via hydraulic pressure.

Release Lever: Lowers the forks by releasing hydraulic pressure.

Steering Wheels: Swivel casters at the rear (or front, depending on design) for maneuverability.

Load Backrest (Optional): Prevents loads from sliding backward during movement.

Frame: Durable steel construction to support heavy loads (typically 2,000–5,000 kg capacity).

2. Key Advantages

Cost-Effective: No fuel or electricity required, lower initial investment and maintenance costs compared to powered forklifts.

Portability: Compact and lightweight, suitable for confined spaces where larger equipment cannot operate.

Ease of Use: Simple manual operation with minimal training required.

Low Maintenance: Fewer moving parts than electric/powered forklifts, reducing downtime.

Safety: No emissions (e.g., CO₂, NOx) and quieter operation than combustion-engine models.

3. Primary Applications

Warehousing: Loading/unloading trucks, moving goods between storage areas and shipping docks.

Retail: Restocking shelves, transporting inventory in supermarkets or wholesale stores.

Manufacturing: Moving raw materials or finished products along production lines.

Logistics: Handling pallets in distribution centers or cross-docking facilities.

Agriculture: Transporting feed, produce, or equipment in farms or greenhouses.

4. Step-by-Step Operation Guide

A. Pre-Use Inspection

Check for visible damage (e.g., bent forks, cracked wheels).

Ensure hydraulic fluid levels are adequate (if applicable).

Test brake functionality (if equipped with a parking brake).

Verify that load wheels and steering casters rotate freely.

B. Lifting a Load

Position the forks fully under the pallet, ensuring even distribution.

Pump the handle up and down until the load is raised 5–10 cm above the ground.

Confirm stability before moving (avoid tilting or unbalanced loads).

C. Moving the Load

Grasp the handle firmly and tilt it slightly backward to balance the load.

Push/pull the forklift slowly, avoiding sudden stops or sharp turns.

Use the steering wheels to navigate corners; keep the load low for stability.

D. Lowering the Load

Position the forklift over the drop-off location.

Squeeze the release lever gradually to lower the forks slowly.

Remove the forks once the load is fully settled.

5. Safety Guidelines

Load Capacity: Never exceed the rated capacity (marked on the forklift).

Stability: Keep the load centered and avoid overhanging edges.

Speed: Move at walking pace (≤5 km/h) to prevent tipping.

Visibility: Ensure clear line-of-sight; use a spotter if obstructed.

Ramps: Traverse ramps head-on (never sideways) and avoid sudden direction changes.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear steel-toe boots and gloves when operating.

6. Maintenance Tips

Lubrication: Regularly grease moving parts (e.g., pivot points, wheels) to reduce friction.

Hydraulic System: Check for leaks and replace worn seals promptly.

Wheel Inspection: Replace damaged or worn wheels to prevent instability.

Cleaning: Remove debris from forks and wheels to ensure smooth operation.

Storage: Store in a dry, covered area to prevent rust (refer to previous rust-prevention guide).

7. Limitations

Limited Range: Unsuitable for long-distance transport (>50 meters).

Load Height: Typically lifts loads only to a height of 20–200 cm (not for high-shelf access).

Manual Effort: Prolonged use may cause operator fatigue.

8. Advanced Variants

Galvanized Models: For corrosive environments (e.g., food processing, chemical plants).

Scissor Lift Pallet Trucks: Combine pallet movement with adjustable height for ergonomic loading.

Weigh Scale Forklifts: Built-in scales for real-time weight measurement.

The main equipment produced by Hebei Makita: stage electric hoist, electric chian hoist, wire rope electric hoist，Hand chain hoist, lever hoist, pneumatic hoist and other lifting equipment