Pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks and pallet jacks | 2025 technical guide

Introduction

In building, construction and industry, efficient and safe materials handling is essential to optimise operating times and costs. Among the most widely used equipment are pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks and jacks (or car jacks), essential tools for moving heavy loads, lifting vehicles or equipment and ensuring safety at work.

This technical guide, updated to 2025, will help you understand the differences, the regulations, the technical characteristics and the best solutions available, so that you can buy with confidence and in line with safety standards.

1. Manual and electric pallet trucks: functions and characteristics

Manual pallet trucks

A manual pallet truck is a mechanical tool designed to make it easier to move pallets and heavy loads at low height, generally up to 2000 kg. Thanks to the lever and the wheels, it lets you raise the load slightly and move it without excessive effort from the operator.

• Advantages: simplicity, low cost, minimal maintenance, excellent for environments with limited space or for quick handling jobs.
• Limitations: not suitable for very heavy loads or prolonged operations that require repeated effort.

Electric pallet trucks

Electric pallet trucks incorporate electric motors to make lifting and moving easier, drastically reducing operator fatigue. They are ideal for heavier loads, continuous handling and longer distances.

• Typical capacity: from 1000 kg up to 3000 kg and beyond.
• Technical characteristics: rechargeable batteries (lead-acid or lithium-ion), electronic control systems, regenerative braking, display with diagnostics.
• Standards: compliant with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, EN 1757-1 (lifting devices) and EN 1175 (safety of industrial trucks).
• Advantages: greater efficiency, lower risk of strain injuries, better productivity.
• Maintenance: it is essential to schedule preventive maintenance on the battery, motor and brakes.

2. Jacks: types and safe use

Jacks, or simply car jacks, are lifting devices used to raise vehicles or heavy equipment, allowing maintenance work or partial repositioning.

Most common types:

• Trolley jacks: fitted with wheels for moving them around, with hydraulic lifting. Capacities from 2 to 50 tonnes.
• Screw jacks: mechanical, less common in modern industry but still used for precise, static lifting.
• Pneumatic jacks: used where compressed air is available, for fast and repeated lifting.

Standards and safety

Jacks must comply with the EN 1494 standard and the safety specifications laid down by the Machinery Directive. It is essential that they are CE marked, with detailed manuals and data sheets.

During use:

• Check the maximum load the jack can support.
• Position the jack on flat, stable, compacted surfaces.
• Use support stands (safety stands) after lifting to prevent accidents.
• Carry out periodic checks and maintenance as indicated by the manufacturer.

3. Important standards and certifications in 2025

For all of this equipment, compliance with the standards is mandatory and guarantees safety and operational reliability.

• Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC: the legislative basis for all machinery used on construction sites.
• Standards EN 1757-1 and EN 1175: specifications for industrial trucks and lifting devices.
• EN 1494: European standard for jacks and lifting devices.
• CE marking: indispensable for sale and use in Europe.
• D.Lgs. 81/2008 (Italy): workplace safety rules, operator training and maintenance management.

4. Tips for making the best choice

• Analysis of operating needs: capacity, frequency of use, manoeuvring space, type of ground.
• Safety first: choose equipment with protective devices, warning signals and safety locks.
• Efficiency and maintenance: prefer models that are easy to maintain, with spare parts availability and local service.
• Consider the drive system: with electric pallet trucks, favour lithium-ion batteries for longer running time and service life.
• Operator training: ensure adequate, ongoing training in accordance with the regulations in force.

Conclusion

Pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks and jacks are the backbone of handling on construction sites and in industry. Investing in equipment that is compliant with the standards, high-performing and safe is essential to increase productivity and reduce the risk of accidents.

If you would like to discover our updated range of pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks and jacks with full certifications and professional technical support, visit our website now.

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