New Economic Predictions Promise Brighter Future for Manufacturing Industry

The National Institute for Economic and Social Research and the Office of National Statistics have this week released figures which indicate that the UK economy seems to be on the road to recovery. The overall economy grew by 0.8% in the three months ending at the end of April, with industrial production rising by 0.7% in March alone, largely as a result of a 1.1% rise in manufacturing. The figures demonstrate that Britain is pulling itself, slowly but surely, out of the recession, to the delight of many businesses which will now be able to operate at their highest potential instead of cutting costs at every turn. The statistics are great news for those who own or operate factories, warehouses or other industrial sites, where signs of growth are most pronounced.

In the wake of the figures, many organisations will be looking to capitalise on the increase and move forward in a positive way.  In order to properly do this, improvement to equipment might be a necessity, particularly in workplaces where pallet trucks and manual handling apparatus is used. Increasing the volume of the amount of goods that can be processed and increasing the efficiency with which they pass through the warehouse or factory is a great way to increase productivity in the workplace and make the most of the economic upturn which is easing the strain on Britain's manufacturing industry.

Investing in a new fleet of high-quality hand pallet trucks can have a variety of benefits for those running an industrial unit. If the trucks are intended to replace a fleet of older trucks which are tiring after many years of service, switching to newer models can be a welcome change and can increase the speed and efficiency of a great number of tasks. New trucks can also simply used to expand an existing selection of manual handling equipment; they can increase capacity and increase the amount of goods and products which can be moved at any one time. The improvements to the state of the economy suggest that now could be the best time to make a move and choose one of these options.

The forecast economic growth may also result in some companies wishing to turn their hand to a more specialised service, or else enhance the range of tasks that their fleet of manual handling trucks can carry out. There are many different trucks on the market  which have specialist abilities, all of which can add a formidable range of options to a fleet. These include pallet trucks with weighing scales for simpler processing of heavy loads, rough terrain pallet trucks for use in loading bays or outside areas where the ground might not be completely even, and also manual stacker trucks, which remain static and lift pallets to heights of around 3m in order to store them on out-of-reach shelving units. Whichever method an organisation chooses to capitalise on in the wake of the new economic predictions, the future is looking much brighter for those in the UK's manufacturing and warehouses sectors.

Midland Pallet Trucks Makes the Most of E-Commerce

Purchasing handling equipment online from Midland Pallet Trucks is now even simpler and more efficient thanks to the introduction of PayPal, the world’s most popular online payment processor. Pallet trucks, manual stacker trucks and a whole range of other industrial apparatus can be placed into a virtual shopping basket and purchased using the secure system, with the entire process taking less time than it would to write out a cheque. PayPal has revolutionised the face of e-commerce across the globe and can now revolutionise workplaces such as factories and distribution centres on a much more personal level for business owners.

Whether opting for a single hand pallet truck + PayPal or choosing to draft in a fleet of high-specification lifting trucks with specialist capabilities, PayPal allows for purchases of all sizes and amounts. Bulk orders can be placed and single purchases can be made with ease. The online payments are processed instantly, and the flexibility that the site offers means that a payment can be made using money from a number of different sources, whether it is a debit card or a company bank account. All transactions produce detailed receipts and records, which can then be downloaded for company records through the Transaction History; vital for keeping the books up to date.

PayPal’s vast experience with large business and corporations means that their processes and the site’s interface have been honed specifically to help those running a company. For those purchasing pallet trucks for use within their own businesses, the main advantages will be the security features it offers and the incredibly quick payment processing which is facilitated. The secure payment process is crucial for businesses buying pallet trucks online; without effective security mechanisms in place, hackers or those with malicious intent could end up with business banking details and access to private accounts. PayPal prevents this from happening with stringent security procedures to verify and protect each user and to ensure each transaction is private and secure.

Once payments are securely processed, the preparation and dispatch of an order can begin, and the faster this takes place, the faster the pallet trucks will be put to their intended use.  From a business point of view, fast processing and delivery times is vital to keep things running smoothly; if a pallet truck needs to be replaced or a new weighing scale pallet truck is desperately needed within the workplace, PayPal’s can set the wheels of delivery in motion as soon as possible.

To find out more about pallet trucks and buy online using PayPal, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.

Eoslift Range Fit For All Purposes Now Available from Midland Pallet Trucks

Eoslift is one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of warehousing and lifting equipment, and Midland Pallet Trucks, with their finger firmly on the pulse of the warehouse industry, recognises high quality products are a must for many businesses and organisations. Their range of Eoslift pallet trucks is already extensive and is due to be expanded further in the coming weeks in order to offer all clients a higher level of flexibility and versatility within their fleets.

Currently in stock at Midland Pallet Trucks is the Eoslift DBA25 Pallet Truck 540x1150 with a capacity of 2500kg. The Euro-compatible truck has forks measuring 540mm x 1150mm and is both TUV/GS approved and CE rated.  Polyurethane wheels offer the truck plenty of grip and allow for both quiet operation and a higher level of protection on smoother surfaces and more delicate floors. Running costs are low with this basic and integral truck; the hydraulic pump and the three-position release trigger requires little maintenance, and the body of the pallet truck itself is coated with epoxy powder to ensure protection from corrosion and potentially harmful substances.

The Eoslift range also caters for other pallet sizes. Their DBD25 Hand Pallet Truck is a lightweight handling solution with forks measuring 450mm x 800mm; the ideal size for printer pallets. The truck, which also has a 2500kg capacity, has both a hand lever and a foot pedal for ultimate control over the unit, whilst the 210 degree turning radius makes it easier manoeuvre around warehouse aisles and around tight corners. A special lowering valve is fitted which adds an element of extra security to the truck by limiting the rate of descent; this prolongs the truck’s life span and helps to keep it in prime condition, also protecting the operator.

As well as printer pallets, the Eoslift range also features trucks with both wide and extra wide forks; the DBD25 pallet truck has forks measuring at 685mm x 1000mm, while its bigger brother, the DBA25B pump truck measures in at 685mm x 1220mm. Both models are ideal for GKN pallets, and both come with all of the hardwearing and high-quality features that all of the Eoslift range has as standard. PU wheels and double PU rollers make for ease of use, whilst a leak-proof hydraulic system and grease fittings at pivotal points help to ensure that these big name trucks will be around for many years to come.

To browse the entire range and to buy online, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.

Midland Pallet Trucks Add Portable Alternative to Weighing Scale Pallet Trucks To Range

Midland Pallet Trucks has added a brand new piece of equipment to its range of materials handling equipment. The latest addition comes in the guise of a 5000kg capacity Salter heavy duty weigh beam.

Weigh beams are fully portable weighing scales which can be used to weigh a whole range of items, from pallets and hoppers to long lengths of pipe or cargo which is difficult to manoeuvre. The new Salter model is highly portable and provided pre-calibrated.

The process of weighing items and logging their statistics is a vital aspect of everyday working procedures. Loads which need to be transferred from delivery to distribution often need to be weighed before they can entire the system, and weighing items is vital for the workplaces which rely on heavy-duty shelving units. In some instances, the solution to this is the weighing scale pallet truck, but for situations where these aren’t appropriate, such as in areas with space restrictions, weigh beams are a great alternative, with many advantages and benefits of their own.

The new Salter beams are incredibly simple to set-up and are designed to be easy to use and to read. They boast a clear LCD display with digits on the display shown at 1-inch high, so they are highly visible and easy to see from an average distance. A mains rechargeable battery gives the beams and the display the power they need to function.  Efficiency, speed and convenience are their primary functions, and with the beams set up and ready to start weighing within minutes of their installation they are incredibly efficient and time-saving. Their portability is useful for conditions where it is not practical to cart a weighing scale pallet truck around; the weigh beams take up little space and are easy to carry around and store when they are not in use. 

The Salter beams are constructed from incredibly hardwearing and waterproof. The display indicator is stainless steel enclosed and IP65 rated and the weighing beams themselves made from mild steel. This combination makes them perfect for use within industrial environments such as factories or warehouses. They are also powder coated to protect from the corrosion and rust they may be exposed to within many workplaces. The beams are able to support up to 5000kg of weight whilst only weighing 16.5kg themselves, making it relatively easy for just one person to carry them around. Stability and security is created through four adjustable rubber feet on the underside of the beam, and the beams themselves can be adjusted in size to accommodate the load they are intended to weigh.

Two weigh beams are provided so wide items can also be weighed with ease, and they have built-in carry handles for ultimate ease of use. For businesses which need a lightweight and portable solution to static scales or pallet trucks, weigh beams are a practical and cost-effective choice.

To find out more about Midland Pallet Trucks and buy online, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.

Short Term vs. Long Term: Disadvantages Of Rented Pallet Trucks

Many business models rely on making certain decisions regarding both the short and long term future of the organisation. These decisions can be related to anything, from office supplies to marketing strategies, and they all have huge effects on the way the business functions and operates on a day-to-day basis. Figures revealed by international research company, RedShift, have stated that around one tenth of all pallet trucks and forklift trucks across Europe have been rented on a short term basis. These trucks are an integral aspect of the everyday process within a workplace, and many choose to rent trucks every few weeks or months depending on their demands and needs.

This approach is a decidedly short-term one and can result in long-term losses for any organisation. In workplaces which rely heavily on manual labour, such as warehouses, docks, factories or building projects, pallet trucks are considered to be an extension of the workforce themselves. They boost productivity levels of all employees and they allow a greater volume of work to be carried at a much higher speed. The complete reliance on these units by the employees who use them means that they should be invested heavily in, in order for a company to really look to the future.

Brand-new pallet trucks often come with the claim that they will last for years, even decades. When maintained properly and used within the parameters of all relevant health and safety guidelines, pallet trucks can indeed last for practically a lifetime. Their robust construction means they are able to withstand great weights and capacities, as well as the everyday wear and tear which occurs as part of any workplace which relies on manual labour. Even the most budget hand pallet trucks have a strong chance of lasting years when looked after properly, and this can save hundreds of pounds in the long run when compared with the expense of shelling out for rental trucks every few months. The long-term effect is more money left within budgets to be used to improve other areas of the organisation.

One of the other main issues with opting for short-term rentals is the fluctuating price. Rental companies often tweak their prices as demand shoots up. Christmas is a prime example of a time where rented trucks can often cost much more than at any other time of the year. It also happens to be the busiest time of the year for many businesses, so those in desperate need of an extra addition to their fleet of pump trucks might find themselves paying over-the-odds prices for trucks which they could have purchased themselves. Short-term solutions may seem like the most cost-effective way to solve an issue with manual handling apparatus, but looking to the long-term can see businesses thrive in years to come.

To find out more about pallet trucks and buy online, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.

How To Choose The Most Suitable Pallet Truck

With extensive and varied ranges of pallet trucks available to choose from, getting the right solution for use within a workplace can require a lot of research and consideration. There are many different aspects of the job to consider before investing in such equipment, all of them as important as the next. By examining everything from the terrain the truck will be used on to the units which will be moved, businesses can ensure that the pallet truck they acquire is best suited to their demands, and is not surplus to requirements.

For a truck which will constantly be used and will not be required to lift and transport the most taxing, heavy loads on a regular basis, a basic hand pallet truck should fit the bill effectively. The hydraulic units require no electricity to operate, and can be elevated by pumping the handle to raise pallets slightly off the floor. These types of truck are often used in warehouses and distribution centres, and are ideal because of their relatively low-maintenance operation and their durability. 

For loads which will need to be elevated to a certain height rather than transported anywhere, semi-electric manual stackers are a more appropriate choice. Their high-powered capabilities allow them to lift loads that would be impossible if attempted manually, and they can elevate these heavy loads in short timeframes. Both of these improvements on manual labour help to increase productivity around the workplaces, as larger volumes can be turned over in a shorter amount of time.

High-lift pallet trucks fill the gap between a hand pallet truck and an electric stacker. Pallet trucks with high lifting capabilities can reduce injuries to staff members by raising pallets to heights that make working on them easier. These types of truck are fitted with security features that make it impossible for the truck to move when the forks are raised over a certain height, in case the truck overbalances and causes damage to employees, premises or cargo.  

Trucks that will be used in adverse conditions are also available, with galvanized steel to protect from water or chemicals, to navigate rough terrain trucks across uneven surfaces and traverse trucks which can carry heavy or awkwardly shaped loads down the narrowest of aisles. All of these trucks help to fulfil the most demanding briefs from all industries, where finding the right equipment for the job is paramount to succeeding. It is important for all organisations to establish their exact needs and purchase the truck which corresponds to them, or risk wasting money on equipment which is either incapable of fulfilling demands or unnecessarily well-equipped for the task it performs.

To find out more about pallet trucks and buy online, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.

Protect Pallet Trucks From Adverse Conditions With Consistent Maintenance Procedures in Winter Months

Whether being operated indoors or out, cold, wet and adverse weather has the potential to affect all pallet trucks used within the workplace. The extreme temperatures have implications for logistics equipment as well as floors and storage facilities. Strain reduces the reliability of key components of many trucks, such as batteries, tyres or any fluids used to aid their functionality, and any damage caused to these trucks can mean dipping into vital funds or budgets to provide replacements. It is essential to adequately and consistently maintain materials handling equipment in the winter months and after conditions such as the recent bouts of snowfall, or face potentially faulty equipment and a temporarily decreased level of productivity.

One of the first ways in which to stop the winter months from wreaking havoc on hand pallet trucks and automated lifting devices is to implement a thorough daily check routine. There may already be a regular check system in place, but making additions or altering them for the colder months can be beneficial. Checking the overall condition of the pump truck is paramount; this includes any lights, brakes, fluids or other controls that may affect the performance of the apparatus. These checks can help to catch any damage early so that it can be repaired accordingly. Check sheets are often available online or through the manufacturer.

Visibility is another important way to ensure trucks remain in good condition over winter. Whether it is supplying all employees with high-visibility garments or using extra internal and external lighting in winter in and around  loading bays and nearby buildings, high visibility can go a long way to creating a measurably safer working environment. Darker mornings and evenings can often mean more hours working in limited visibility so taking measures to avoid working in dim lighting reduces crashes, mistakes and other accidental damage to hand pallet trucks, forklifts, high lift pallet trucks and other everyday equipment. Similarly, if delivery lorries are in operation in limited visibility, dark nights and winter mornings, it is important to verify that their reverse beepers and horns are in good working order before undertaking any sort of task.

Many workplaces make use of both inside and outside areas as part of their everyday working processes; in the wet winter months, this can cause trucks and employees to bring a lot of the wet weather indoors on their feet, clothes or on their wheels. Placing the appropriate mats at entrances and exits, and ensuring that any slippery or wet areas are covered with noticeable signage can prevent accidents which can harm employees, ruin cargo and damage trucks and other equipment.

To find out more about pallet trucks and buy online, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.

Protect Staff and Businesses With Appropriate Safety Measures

In the age of endless personal injury advertisements and compensation claims for the most blameless of accidents, it is vital that business protect both themselves and their staff by ensuring their safety when operating dangerous and heavy machinery. In certain industries, using this type of equipment is a daily process and a part of their everyday working remit, so it is crucial that each business takes precautions for the universal benefit of their staff. One of the most common methods used to increase safety for employees working with pallet trucks is to fit them with hand brakes, or purchase specific models with a brake installed. Midland Pallet Trucks, a leading supplier of lifting solutions and heavy-duty workplace equipment understands that many workplaces which rely on transporting heavy or cumbersome goods from one area to another on pallets and trucks, and they recommend that each employer ensures a percentage of their truck fleet is fitted with a brake.

Midland Pallet Trucks has the choice of two pallet trucks which come pre-fitted with a brake. The AC25HB Hand Pallet Truck with Brake has forks of 1150mm x 540mm and is specially designed to lift many different sizes of pallets which are currently in use across the continent. The truck itself, like all of the other trucks in the Midland Pallet Trucks’ range, is made from hardwearing steel and is coated in epoxy powder in order to protect against corrosion and deterioration of the efficiency and safety of the truck. The actual brake mechanism is controlled by hand so that the operator has easy access to their security controls, and the truck requires no special qualifications or training courses to operate, meaning it can be integrated quickly and seamlessly into a warehouse, factory or distribution centre.

The BFB2500A Hand Pallet Truck is the other truck fitted with a brake system available from Midland Pallet Trucks, and is used for lifting much higher loads. The maximum capacity of the forks is 2.5 tonnes; transporting loads this heavy without the added control offered by a brake can be a recipe for disaster in workplaces. The truck itself is easy to manoeuvre thanks to its 210 degree turning radius, and a fitted lowering valve adds an extra element of manipulation for the operator, who can control the rate of descent when the truck is loaded.

As well as traditional brakes fitted to trucks, pallet truck chocks are a vital piece of equipment to have around the workplace. They secure empty pallet trucks in place when they are being loaded or unloaded, in order to prevent them from rolling off loading bays. Though not specifically a brake, these chocks help to hold the truck in position and prevent unnecessary accidents which could injure staff, cause costly damage or ruin stock.

To find out more about pallet trucks and buy online, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.

Vital Equipment For All Industries

Pallet trucks and all of their many variants are relied upon to a huge degree across a great number of different industries, all with exacting demands and requirements of their equipment. Different workplaces will see emphasis placed on a different area of productivity, whether the aim is to mass produce, distribute, collate or assemble; these various requirements are reflected in each industry’s choice of pallet truck or manual lifting equipment. A company whose main aim is to distribute goods to the wider public or to other businesses will need to be able to lift and transport large volumes of cargo in a reliable and safe manner, while the businesses whose primary concern is the intricacy of medicine or chemicals will need to ensure their equipment is sterile and hygienic. Each company has their prime piece of apparatus; this guide examines the main requirements for three of the largest industries.

Warehousing

The warehousing industry is preoccupied primarily with storage, and being able to hold large volumes of goods within the building. Shelving units scraping ceilings and long, narrow aisles help to maximise space in such workplaces, but employees often require mechanical help in order to access orders. Manual stacker trucks can lift cargo and pick orders from heights up to 3m, making them an integral cog in the machine of the warehouse industry. 1000kg lift capacities are standard with these trucks, meaning that elevating extremely heavy loads is made simpler and faster for all those involved. Without these trucks, warehouses would be condemned to use small shelving unit and would be unable to maximise not only space, but also profit.

Pharmaceutical / Medical

In the intricate and elaborate process of crafting chemicals which go into cleaning fluids, cosmetic product and even life-saving medicines, one of the most important qualities a truck can have is the ability to withstand harsh environments. Galvanized or stainless steel pallet trucks are often used in this industry due to their capacity to endure exposure to chemicals, not only from spillages but from the extensive sterilisation process they must undergo on a regular basis. When working with chemicals and other substances which could potentially interact with one another if mixed, it is important for the workplace to be entirely sterile; a reaction between two compounds could cause adverse results and cause loss of products, loss of earnings and the endangerment of employees.

Engineering / Construction

Working in the construction industry often requires equipment which can lift and transport oddly shaped items which are not necessarily palletised. Fork extensions can often assist with this type of task when fitted to an existing fork lift truck.

To find out more about pallet trucks and buy online, visit http://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.