Selecting the appropriate wheel size for a manual pallet truck is crucial in ensuring operational efficiency and safety in material handling environments. Pallet trucks, integral to warehouses, manufacturing plants, and retail spaces, come with forks in various sizes. However, the focus on the width of these forks is central to accommodating different pallet types.
Understanding Fork Widths and Their Compatibility
Primarily, three main widths of forks are utilized in the industry: 450mm, 540mm, and 680mm. These dimensions might slightly vary (e.g., 470mm, 520mm, 685mm) but generally fall within these ranges. The key is to match the fork width with the pallet type for optimal use.
For Standard UK Pallets
Standard UK pallets, also known as GKN, CHEP, or blue pallets, measure 1000 x 1200mm (40in x 48in). For these pallets, a 680mm wide pallet truck is most suitable. When it comes to fork length, there are three standard options: 1000mm, 1150mm, or 1200mm. The 1000mm length is popular due to its maneuverability and the fact that the forks don’t protrude beyond the pallet. The 1220mm fork length is ideal for heavier loads where full-depth support is necessary to prevent sagging. The 1150mm fork length serves as a balanced option between the two.
For Standard Euro Pallets
Standard Euro pallets, measuring 800 x 1200 mm (31.5 in x 48 in), require a different approach. Here, a pallet truck with a 540 mm wide fork is most appropriate. Pallet trucks with 680 mm wide forks are incompatible with the narrow sides of Euro pallets, underscoring the importance of choosing the right size.
The Versatile Option
For businesses handling both UK and European pallets, a versatile solution is needed. In such cases, opting for a pallet truck with a 540 x 1150mm fork size is advisable. This size provides the flexibility required to accommodate both pallet types efficiently.
Special Considerations for US Pallets
It’s important to note that US-made pallets might have different height requirements compared to UK or European pallets. For lower pallets, a semi-low profile pallet truck with 75mm low forks, as opposed to the standard 85mm, might be necessary. Accurate measurement of pallets and consultation with experts like us at Bullcaster can guide you to the right choice.
Catering to Industry-Specific Needs
In industries like printing, where smaller pallet sizes are common, narrower forks are often required. The most common size is a 450mm wide x 1000mm long fork, but lengths ranging from 500 to 1220mm are also frequently used, catering to the specific needs of different industries.
Finding the Right Size
At Bullcaster, we understand the diverse needs of our clients when it comes to pallet truck wheel sizes. We encourage our customers to download the product brochure of our pallet trunk wheels to find the perfect size for their specific requirements.
By selecting the right pallet truck wheel size, businesses can enhance operational efficiency, ensure safety, and cater to the specific demands of their logistics and storage operations. Remember, the right tool for the job makes all the difference.
