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.

Safe Work At Height With Aerial Work Platforms

A 34-year-old man from Colchester has been seriously injured after using a makeshift aerial work platform in order to replace a light fitting. The incident occurred at Adhere Industrial Tapes in Colchester a year ago, and the injured man is still undergoing physiotherapy and using crutches, faced with the prospect that he may never work again after suffering multiple fractures to his skull, leg, back and wrist. The man, who has not been named, was standing on a cobbled-together aerial work platform which had been created by placing a metal cage on top of a wooden pallet, before being lifted by another truck. As he began to carry out maintenance on a light fixture, the cage fell from the truck’s forks and the man fell a total of seven metres to the ground.

It was ruled by Colchester Magistrate’s Court last week that the company involved had failed to ensure that right procedures and equipment were in place to carry out work at height. The work that the man carried out was not properly planned, nor was it appropriately supervised. The company involved was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive after it was revealed that none of the company’s drivers had been trained in lifting persons, nor were the essential safeguarding standards adhered to. Restraint harnesses were overlooked and there was no means to secure the cage to the forks of the truck. The work was inherently dangerous and did not conform with the health and safety standards laid down by the government; the man should have been using a verified, safe and secure aerial work platform for the job, which would have surely prevented his injury and saved his career.

Aerial work platforms offer a safe and economical solution for one person to work at height, and features such as their emergency down and stop buttons, levelling indicators and the closed-in nature of the platform help to ensure an employee’s safety when using one. They are most popularly used in hospitals, schools, warehouses and other areas where carrying out maintenance at height is often required. Most aerial work platforms are supplied with integrated chargers and built-in battery indicators, and are considered to be much more versatile than static mobile towers, as their heights can be adjusted with just the touch of a button. This also contributes to safety regulations, as should employees experience a problem whilst working at height, it is a simple process to return them to the ground.

It is vital for all companies to ensure that safe systems of work are in place to protect their workforce, and it is also the company’s responsibility to provide the correct equipment for all tasks which need to be carried out. If there is the chance of any employee having to carry out work at height, companies must ensure they purchase an aerial work platform such as Midland Pallet Truck’s MJCPT 3.0m mobile aerial work platform, rather than allowing employees to construct a dangerous alternative which could put them at risk. 

Lightweight Pallet Trucks To Prevent Back Strain For Employees

Injuries that occur as a result of muscle strain in the back or the shoulders are one of the most common types of workplace injury that can befall an employee, and this is especially true for those who manoeuvre heavy pallet trucks around a busy workplace all day, every day. One in five of all workplace injury complaints are related to back pain, with the manual handling industry being one of the largest culprits. Pallet trucks are constructed entirely for the purposes of moving heavy loads from A to B, and so it follows that the actual construction of the trucks should be as lightweight as possible, not only to ensure that there is no unnecessary weight added to an already heavy cargo, but also to drastically cut the chances of complaints such as back or muscle strain.

Using a lightweight hand pallet truck is paramount to ensuring staff safety without compromising on high quality. Trucks such as the i-ton 1000 Hand Pallet Truck offer a piece of equipment that weighs in at just 38kg, yet can carry up to 1000kg safely and easily. This is due to a highly advanced Techno-polymer compound, a lightweight material that is as rigid and robust as the steel which pallet trucks are normally constructed from. The material also protects from external corrosive agents such as water or harsh chemicals, in much the same way as a galvanized or stainless steel pallet truck might. The operating lever which controls the lifting mechanism of the truck can be used with both right and left hands, and the hydraulic pump elevates the truck to its highest height in just three strokes; both of these mechanisms combine with the incredibly lightweight nature of the truck to make it extremely easy and safe for staff to use without picking up a strain or muscle complaint.

For smaller loads and even smaller spaces, the ML0308 Portable Folding Pallet Truck weighs in at just 26kg and when not in use, it can be easily stored by being hung up on a wall or on the side of a cupboard. Despite its incredible lightweight construction, it can still safely carry and lift up to 300kg of cargo, and like many other trucks which boast lightweight credentials, can be used within a van or truck to truly take the strain off employees for a while.

When using lightweight pallet trucks in a car, truck or other form of transport, it is vital that they are used in conjunction with a pallet truck chock, which works by immobilising the rear wheels of a truck and ensuring that they can’t roll off the edge of a loading bay or truck bed. As well as providing extra security for the items within the truck, pallet truck chocks also help to protect staff members against the dreaded back strain by enabling them to place the truck into the van without risking an injury in turning it onto its side or lifting it into a tyre.

Looking To the Future: Invest In Manual Handling Aids

The vast majority of businesses have their Christmas contingency plans in place already, and are well-equipped to deal with whatever the festive season may through at them. But the savviest and smartest of managers are already looking far ahead, beyond the Christmas season, to the time when business returns to normal and the profits are reduced after the busiest time of year. Recession and austerity is plaguing the country, and many businesses are in two minds about how to approach 2013. Popular advice dictates that businesses should make cuts, but this causes harmful redundancies among staff, budgets reduced across the board and profit margins made much smaller. Other schools of thought believe that the best way to combat the effects of recession in the next twelve months is to invest.

With markets so unpredictable, and the country teetering on the brink of falling back into recession all the time, warehouses, factories, distribution centres and other businesses in the freight and logistics field are reluctant to make huge investment in aspects such as staff training and company equipment. But devoting larger portions of the budgets to the correct training of their existing staff members, and purchasing new apparatus such as pallet trucks or stacker trucks, can help to secure the future of a company. Once the markets begin to rectify themselves, businesses will be fully equipped to take their company to the next level, aiding growth and expansion.

The key for many companies is to try and look further ahead than the next few months. The financial crisis will not last forever; some businesses are saving money by taking on inexperienced, young staff members, or renting pump trucks to avoid buying their own. This leads to less productivity, smaller budgets and a smaller likelihood of emerging from the financial difficulties with any semblance of profit. Those who invest in the foundations of their business, in items such as hand pallet trucks, lift tables or new storage systems, will stand themselves in good stead for the future.

A good workforce is only fully functional if it is fully equipped. By making cuts and reducing budgets, workforces are forced to adapt their processes and become less productive. When purchased as new and properly maintained, much of the equipment that is vital to these processes can last a lifetime, and will serve a company for years after this country escapes this era of austerity.

Why A Manual Stacker Beats A Forklift For Cost-Effectiveness

When faced with the prospect of purchasing new apparatus for a warehouse environment, many managers often find themselves in two minds over two specific pieces of equipment: the forklift truck and the manual stacker truck. One of the biggest considerations given when trying to make the decision is the cost-effectiveness of each truck. Which will initially cost the most? Which will cost the most to run in the long term? Which will have the highest return on the investment? This thorough guide examines the ways in which hand-operated stacker trucks can be much more cost-effective than a forklift truck, and why businesses should be looking to invest in the for the long term.

When purchasing a forklift truck, many managers tend to disregard the extra costs they will have to invest as time goes on, to ensure the maintenance and proper operation of the truck. Some will purchase a forklift with the idea that they will pay a one-off lump sum for the equipment, and not have to splash out on another truck for many years. What they don’t consider is that forklift trucks often have a number of additional hidden costs. Training, for instance, is compulsory for any employee who will be operating it. Courses to ensure an employee has the correct qualifications to operate the apparatus can cost thousands, with refresher courses needed every few years to ensure their training is up to date. One of the main advantages of buying a manual stacker truck by comparison is that they currently require no license to operate in the workplace, and though basic safety training courses may be necessary, there are no specific qualifications or top-ups needed for staff members. This saves on training and also means that anyone in the workplace can operate them, rather than a specified few who have undertaken training.

The cost of actually running a forklift truck when compared with a manual stacker is often overlooked too. There is the option to purchase a gas-operated forklift, which won’t need charging, but it will go through expensive canisters of gas and use up just as much energy from a different source. As suggested in the name, a manual stacker truck such as the 1000kg 1.6m manual stacker from Midland Pallet Trucks is operated entirely by manpower and manual labour. Hand and foot controls lift pallets to workable heights without needing to be connected to a power source at all, saving on all kinds of fuel expenses.

Maintenance on battery and gas-operated forklift trucks is also an added expense. Levels of distilled water within battery cells need to be constantly monitored to check that they are maintaining a consistent level. Without this maintenance, batteries can dry out and need replacing, which results in an even higher bill for the equipment department. Manual stackers’ freedom from the use of power sources means that the only maintenance required is of the aesthetic type, protecting the truck from corrosion and rust, and ensuring that all joints are smooth and well-oiled.

In summation, the cost of running a manual stacker truck when compared to a forklift truck is lower in every aspect. From initial outlay to employee training, and from fuel allowances to maintenance costs, the money saved when using a manual stacker can be used to great effect elsewhere within a business at a time of great economic uncertainty.

Deal With Online Orders This Christmas with a Range Of Material Handling Equipment

Statistics have found that online sales figures are growing at a faster rate than ever, especially in the run up to Christmas. Online sales amounted to around £6.4bn in the month of September, which is 16% more than twelve months previously, and 11% more than the month before, showing both a year-on-year and month-on-month rise in internet shopping. The busiest time of the year for thousands of distribution centres, warehouses and production factories means that a vast amount of businesses up and down the country are relying on their fleet of pallet trucks to be as versatile as possible. It is not too late for businesses to make the material handling equipment work harder in the run up to Christmas, from the packing process to the shipping.

Many forklift trucks, powerful as they are, have limitations that depend entirely on their construction and their frame. The length of the forks restrict the size of the cargo which can be moved at any given time, and so fork extensions are a vital aspect of tackling the increased workload around Christmas. They are fitted over the existing forks so that the truck can carry longer or larger objects with ease and without compromising the balance of the truck. Made from incredibly strong welded steel, the forks are robust and durable and they have a corrosion-resistant coating to ensure they stay in prime condition for a long period of time. Sets such as the Fork Extensions 3KR/3W Series were created specifically so that they would fit a large number of forklift truck models, from 3KR57 all the way through to 3KR59, with the addition of the 3W667 model. Extended forklift capability at this time of the year is a great way to cope with the increased workload and handle the extra orders with aplomb.

With such a huge increase in orders, the packing process also needs to be extremely streamlined and efficient to ensure that a backlog doesn’t start to mount up. Manual stacker trucks can speed up the packing process, and are available in a wide selection of different height, with varying lifting capabilities. They can retrieve goods or stack them at height, and are an economical solution for moving pallets around the workplace. Their steel construction makes them robust and hardwearing, and their precision-engineered operation makes for a smooth performance that ensures pallets can be lifted and lowered quickly and easily.

Once stock has been packed it can be moved out for shipping and distribution with the help of a hand pallet truck. The most versatile of all trucks, hand pallet trucks are lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, as well as being able to carry up to 2500kg of cargo at any given time. The different typed of hand pallet truck, including long pallet trucks, traverse pallet trucks and rough terrain trucks ensure that goods can be carried across any surface and within many restricted environments, and their ease of use make them a must for this busy Christmas season.

Final Call To Prepare For Christmas Issued by Midland Pallet Trucks

Midland Pallet Trucks is issuing a final call to businesses to stock up on the vital equipment and apparatus to see them through the busy Christmas period. The last weeks of October are generally the calm before the festive storm, the relatively quiet time before the Christmas rush hits. The amount of business undertaken over the festive season can double or triple depending on the nature of a company and how in demand their services are, but many warehouses and factories distributing goods across the country can see workloads increase hugely. This means all equipment must be in absolute prime condition, to deal with the extra stresses and strains.

The benefits of purchasing extra pallet trucks to add to a fleet around this time of year can greatly decrease the strain on the rest of the equipment. Bolstering the workforce with brand new equipment is also a great way to streamline working processes and get every system working to its full potential. The addition of some basic 2000kg Lightweight Hand Pallet Trucks to the workplace can mean a larger volume of work can be carried out, and helps to take some of the strain off the equipment that might be past its best. These trucks are ideal for euro pallets, the most commonly used pallets in the UK, and the top quality hydraulic pump makes for easy lifting and transportation of goods.

The addition of a weighing scale pallet truck to a fleet of trucks can also speed up working processes tremendously. In many workplaces, there are a number of scales placed around the workplace where loads must be measured before they are packed and stored, or before they are distributed. Goods must therefore be taken all the way to the weighing area on the pallet truck, unloaded, weighed and reloaded back to the truck before anything can be done with them. The HP-ESR Weigh Scale Pallet Truck can completely cut this long process by weighing goods on the go. The number of operators needed is vastly reduced, as there doesn’t need to be more than one person to help with moving goods to the scales and back, and this means the surplus staff can carry out other tasks which will boost productivity and profits alike. This truck is battery-powered with an easy-to-read LCD display, and can carry up to 2000kg.

Traverse pallet trucks are also a great piece of equipment for taking vital time out of lengthy working processes. They are able to move long loads down narrow aisles with ease, which provides a high level of flexibility and convenience, especially at a time when workloads are increased.  The trucks can be used with both open and closed bottom pallets and are covered with a heavy-duty steel coating for optimum durability. It is these extra pieces of equipment that can make the difference this Christmas, where every cog within the working machine must be working to its highest potential. 

Materials Handling Exhibition to Take Place in 2013

Pre-registration is now open for businesses to attend IMHX 2013 – the International Materials Handling Exhibition, which will take place at the NEC in Birmingham on 19-22 March next year. There will be more than 400 exhibitors showcasing products and services, with onus placed specifically on food and drink, wholesale and retail industries. The event as a whole includes exhibits, seminars, labour-saving and cost-reducing tips, and a chance to network with many industry contacts, as well as getting up to date on the innovative material handling solutions that are becoming more and more commonplace as the country looks to beat the recession. An ‘Operator Of The Year’ competition will be taking place with the chance for the successful entrant to win a brand new car simply for showcasing their expert pallet truck operation skills, and companies who have confirmed their attendance include container supplier Olivo, battery solution provider Hoppecke Industrial Batteries, and Plastic Extruders Ltd, a company who supply tensional strapping to many businesses.

Attending such events in order to pick up on ideas to streamline working processes and possibly to network with potential clients or customers is important to a business as a whole, but the key to really honing working methods in the workplace is obtaining the right equipment. Within the food and drinks industry, specialist equipment is often required to make sure that materials are handled in the correct way. Hand pallet trucks which can operated in extremely low temperatures, or exceedingly wet conditions, are vital when they will often be used within freezers or other adverse environments. Corrosive environments which will see a lot of salt or brine in the air can damage conventional trucks, and so more specialise equipment is often required just to do the simplest of jobs.

Galvanized pallet trucks are one of the most popular choices within the food industry, as well as medical and pharmaceutical fields, for their sheer strength and ability to withstand harsh environments. Often constructed from stainless steel, with nylon and rubber parts wherever necessary, these trucks are ideal for situations where sterility and hygiene is of utmost importance. They can be blasted with chemicals, harsh sea water and sent through the incredibly low temperatures within some freezers all day long and will emerge unscathed, along with their cargo.

High-lift galvanized pallet trucks are also available when goods need to be lifted higher than a standard pallet truck. They operate like conventional pallet trucks, but when the height exceeds 200mm, the wheels will lock for safety reasons. This equipment is crucial in workplaces such as docks, ports, pharmaceutical plants and food processing factories, and any logistics tips or material handling solutions picked up at the IMHX 2013 will become redundant without such specialist equipment in place.

Safety By Numbers: Assessing Equipment

After the recent drives to ensure all staff members are competent and adequately trained in all areas of their safety process this Christmas, it should follow that there are similar campaigns to keep all equipment in good working order. Throughout the UK, four accidents involving fork lift or pump trucks occur every day, with this number rising over the busy festive season. As a result of these accidents, 25% end in hospitalisation or even death. This can be due to the aforementioned lack of safety procedures as well as inconsistent maintenance of all equipment. There are basic rules in place which can help all employers improve the safety of their workforce and prolong the life span of their lifting and handling apparatus, including pallet trucks. These rules can be broken down into four key steps, which are easy to understand and simple to put into practice. Risk Assessment All apparatus, whether it be an extendable ladder or an electric pallet truck, should to be subject to a thorough risk assessment before staff are allowed to operate it. Controlling and minimising risk is the key here, and it is important that both safe methods of work and appropriate records are maintained. Workers should document all hazards they come into contact with, and should be trained in all aspects of detecting defects, inspecting their equipment and carrying out essential daily or weekly maintenance. Some of the most dangerous incidents which can be subject to risk assessment include the truck overbalancing due to too much cargo, hydraulic fluid leakages or the malfunction of improperly maintained wheels. Training Any employee who will be operating certain pieces of equipment will need to possess the adequate licenses and training to be able to use whichever truck they are in charge of. Some pieces of equipment, such as hand pallet trucks, require only the bare minimum of training and no special licenses to operate, but other more specialised forms of handling equipment demand that theoretical and practical training be undertaken by the users. It is also recommended that refresher courses be taken every three years to incorporate any changes in legislation or safety practises which may have come into play since the last qualification was obtained. Maintenance As covered in the risk assessment section, the maintenance of all types of handling equipment, including pallet trucks, forklift trucks and high lift pallet trucks, is crucial to its safe operation. As well as any checks specified by the employer, workers must also be prepared to carry out extra checks recommended by the manufacturer. The time between these inspections can vary in accordance with the working environment and how often the equipment is used, but the legal requirements state that a thorough examination is carried out on all trucks at least once per year.

Pallet Truck Chock or Pallet Truck Stop

The Pallet Truck Chock

Midland are pleased to announce the introduction of this new chock into our already extensive range of pump trucks and accessories

Having tried various styles and designs over the years we feel that this model offers the best of all designs, in that it is lightweight, hard wearing, functional, easy to use and is very competitively priced.

The pallet truck chock is engineered to hold a pump truck in place on a moving truck or trailer.

Key features

The chock is designed to ensure the pallet truck does not move and cause damage to the inside of vehicles or other road users.


It assists the driver, in that the pump truck does not have to be turned onto its side to prevent it rolling over.


It is easier for a driver to use the pallet truck chock than the old method of dropping the main wheels into a tire which often resulted in back injuries.


The chock will prevent other goods in transit being damaged by an unsecured pallet trucks.


The chock can also be used to hold a truck in position on an inclined surface thus preventing injury to the operator or work colleagues


The chock is durable enough to give long service in any harsh environment


These units are suited to any surface including none slip floors
Chocks are being sold to trucking and logistics companies. The truck driver simply pulls the pump truck into the stop and it is securely parked in seconds rather than struggling to lay it on its side or lift the wheels into an old tire.

The weight of the truck itself holds it in position in the chock. Pallet Truck chocks [also known as a Pallet Truck Stop] are now considered to be a mandatory piece of safety equipment for all vehicles that carry pump trucks and at just 3.5kg in weight it is something all drivers should carry with them.

There is no cheaper way to solve this potentially hazardous Health and Safety issue and the use of this device is easier and quicker than tying a truck down

Our full range of pump trucks, manual stackers, lift tables, scissor lift table, pallet lifters, order pickers, aerial work platforms and forklift truck fork extensions can be viewed on our online shop

The use of scissor lift tables

Scissor lift tables

Scissor lift tables, also called scissor lifts, platform lifts and lift table trucks have a simple use - to raise or lower a product on a platform. They make overhead tasks safer and more effective as well as helping to improve proper location of materials which helps avoid work related injuries. These tables are composed of three basic components, a platform, scissor legs and a lower frame assembly.

It allows operators to lift large amounts of weight easily and safely, reducing the risk of workplace injury. Platform lifts help reduce incidents of musculoskeletal disorders by positioning work and objects at a suitable height for operators. This simple concept is safe and reliable, which is why it is widely used in a number of different industries, including:

1. Wood working

2. Metal working

3. Paper, printing and publishing

4. Warehousing and distribution

5. Light assembly

6. Heavy machinery and transportation

Lift Tables are designed and built for a wide variety of uses and different industrial processes, including:

1. Work positioning in assembly operations and manufacturing

2. Load positioning (when integrated into conveyor systems)

3. Materials position in machine feeding applications

4. Pallet loading and unloading (usually for cartons of finished or unfinished goods)

Platform lifts are available with either a manual hydraulic pump action or an electric motor. In addition there are multiple stage scissor lifts (such as double or triple). Hydraulic lift tables use one or more hydraulic cylinders to move the platform up and down. Double stack two sets of scissor legs on top of each other while triple stack three sets of scissor legs on top of each other. It is the design of these multiple stage scissor lifts, which will raise the platform to larger heights. Therefore, this is an ideal choice for robotic integration and applications where operators may have to work underneath the product.

When purchasing a lift table there are a number of factors to take into consideration:

1. What quantity of loads do you want the lift table to handle?

2. Will you be using the table indoors or outdoors (or both)?

3. What weight will you need to lift up to?

4. What is the elevation, which the weight has to raise up to?

5 Is a double scissor lift table required

6. What environment will the machine be used in?

The benefits of using lift tables are numerous - they will make your workplace safer, more efficient and effective and reduce the risk of workplace injury, all excellent reasons to seriously consider investing in one of these units.

Assisting employers who believe in implementing workplace safety to avoid injury, Midland Pallet Trucks are experts in workplace safety solutions and provide a wide variety of products and applications like manual pallet lifters and pallet trucks to solve workplace safety needs.

Call Midland Pallet Trucks on 01384 841440 {UK}

Forklift Truck fork extensions

Forklift truck fork extensions

Forklift Truck fork extensions are a cheap and easy way of extending the forks on a forklift truck.

Very often loads are out of reach and not accessible using the standard length forks.

They can also make loading and unloading vehicles safer to the forklift truck driver and other manual workers, by ensuring that the forks extend under a load further makes the movement of the cargo more stable and safe

The attachments just slip over the standard forks and are secured by a steel loop that runs under the back of the original fork giving the fork extensions a cantilever effect that extend well beyond the original fork ends

Midland Pallet Trucks have been offering these fork accessories for several years.

They are available in a range of sizes. The sizes are dependant on the size of the original forks that they are being used with. Forks have different widths, lengths and thicknesses.

There are available from stock in the following sizes: -

35R57 60" x 4-1/2" x 2"

3KR58 72" x 5-1/2" x 2"

3KR59 72" x 6-1/2" x 2"

3W667 60" x 5-1/2" x 2"

These are obviously sold as a matching pair.

These can be viewed along with our range of pallet trucks at our online shop. They offer a very cost effective way of improving the efficiency of the existing mechanical handling equipment without having to make a large investment in a new truck.

In addition the forklift Fork extensions and pallet trucks, Midland Pallet Trucks are able to offer a variety of manual stackers, pallet lifters, pump trucks, lift tables, double scissor lift tables

The extensive range of pallet trucks include extra long, extra narrow, high lift, low profile, galvanised, stainless steel, heavy duty, lite duty, extra wide and weighing scale trucks.