What Are the Three Main Types of Pallet Handling Trucks?

Pallet trucks form the fundamental equipment of modern warehousing and logistics systems, enabling the efficient and safe lifting, moving, and transport of palletised goods.

Whether in manufacturing plants, distribution centres, or warehouses, selecting the appropriate pallet truck significantly enhances operational efficiency, reduces labour costs, and improves safety.

Pallet trucks, also known as forklifts, allow operators to lift and move loaded pallets effortlessly. Pallet trucks come in various types, each designed to handle different loads and perform specific functions. Utilising pallet trucks to transport goods throughout a facility is a straightforward method to enhance warehouse operational efficiency.

So, what are the three primary types of pallet trucks commonly found today? We shall now introduce them in sequence: manual pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks, and automated pallet trucks.

1. Manual Pallet Trucks (Hand Pallet Jacks)

Manual pallet trucks rely on human power for operation, meaning they require manual handling to perform their functions. As the most basic and economical handling equipment, manual pallet trucks utilise a hydraulically operated system to raise, lower, and move pallets through manual effort.

Key Features:

• Simple operation, easy maintenance
• Suitable for short-distance transport
• No electricity required
• Low cost, high durability

Best For: Small warehouses, retail stores, and temporary loading areas.

Manual pallet trucks can be strategically positioned throughout your factory premises, providing a convenient means of transporting goods across the entire facility. They prove particularly useful when forklift operators are occupied, yet your products require delivery to designated locations by specific deadlines.

2. Electric Pallet Trucks (Powered Pallet Jacks)

Electric pallet trucks, also known as powered pallet trucks, function similarly to manual pallet trucks. Equipped with an electric drive and lifting system, electric pallet trucks enable your staff to complete tasks more efficiently while enhancing their productivity.

Key Features:

• Electric drive and lift system
• Suitable for high-frequency handling operations
• Available in pedestrian and rider models
• Comfortable operation with high safety standards

Best For: Medium to large warehouses, production workshops, and logistics centres.

Example Solution:

AiTEN Robotics’ APe15, APX20 Electric Pallet Truck provides intelligent control, enhanced stability, and advanced safety protection — ideal for modern warehouses seeking higher efficiency.

Battery-powered pallet trucks are an excellent choice for boosting operational efficiency. They can move swiftly within warehouses, safely transporting goods from point A to point B.  

3. Automated Pallet Trucks (AGV / AMR Pallet Movers)

Automated pallet trucks represent a new phase in the development of logistics equipment. Utilising navigation sensors and AI algorithms, they are capable of autonomous movement and cargo handling, enabling unmanned operations.

Key Features:

• Laser SLAM or QR code navigation
• Real-time obstacle detection
• WMS/ERP system integration
• 24/7 unmanned operation

Best For: Smart factories, automated warehouses, and enterprises pursuing digital transformation.

Example Solution:

The AiTEN MP10 Intelligent AGV Forklift by AiTEN Robotics features high-precision navigation and intelligent safety sensors — delivering efficiency, reliability, and safety in pallet automation.

Choosing the Right Pallet Handling Truck

Using the right material handling equipment makes boosting warehouse productivity a breeze. Transporting product pallets within the factory requires reliable pallet trucks to streamline operational processes.

When choosing your pallet handling solution, consider:

• Load capacity & pallet type
• Operating environment
• Usage frequency
• Automation needs & ROI goals

Upgrading from manual or electric models to automated AGV pallet trucks can significantly improve efficiency, accuracy, and long-term cost savings.

Conclusion

From manual to fully automated solutions, pallet handling trucks have evolved to meet the demands of intelligent logistics. Choosing the right type depends on your workflow, load requirements, and digitalisation goals.

At AiTEN Robotics, we provide comprehensive pallet-handling solutions — combining intelligence, efficiency, and safety to empower the next generation of smart warehouses.

About AiTEN Robotics

As a company specialising in intelligent logistics solutions, AiTEN Robotics has consistently focused on the ‘smart factory’ scenario, deeply integrating technological innovation with industry needs. It has provided comprehensive services to over 200 manufacturing clients worldwide: Leveraging a full range of material handling robot product portfolios to cover diverse material handling scenarios, we have developed an industry-grade intelligent scheduling system to enable efficient collaboration among multiple devices. Through a comprehensive lifecycle service system spanning pre-sales planning, deployment and implementation to operations optimization, we empower enterprises to achieve logistics intelligence transformation, continuously driving the digital upgrading and high-quality development of the manufacturing industry.

Is your warehouse prepared to embrace this efficiency revolution? Contact us immediately to secure expert consultation on AGV intelligent warehousing solutions!