Electric Pallet Jack vs. Electric Walkie Rider

A walkie rider, often referred to as a rider pallet jack or rider pallet truck, is a type of electric material handling equipment used for transporting and moving pallets in warehouses and distribution centers. It is designed to be ridden by the operator, providing several advantages over a standard electric pallet jack, which is typically operated by walking behind it. Here are some benefits of a walkie rider over a standard electric pallet jack:

  1. Operator Efficiency: The most significant advantage of a walkie rider is that it allows the operator to ride on the equipment. This reduces operator fatigue, increases productivity, and allows for faster and more efficient material handling tasks, especially for long-distance transporting.
  2. Faster Travel Speed: Walkie rider pallet jacks generally have higher travel speeds compared to standard electric pallet jacks. This speed improvement can result in quicker cycle times and more efficient operations.
  3. Reduced Operator Strain: Since the operator rides on the walkie rider, there is less physical strain on the operator’s body compared to walking behind a standard pallet jack. This can lead to improved ergonomics and a lower risk of workplace injuries.
  4. Higher Weight Capacity: Walkie rider pallet jacks often have a higher weight capacity than standard pallet jacks. This allows them to handle heavier loads, making them suitable for heavier-duty applications.
  5. Maneuverability: Walkie rider pallet jacks are designed to be highly maneuverable, allowing operators to navigate tight spaces and crowded aisles more easily. This can be crucial in warehouses with limited space.
  6. Battery Life: Many walkie rider pallet jacks come with larger batteries, offering longer runtimes between charges compared to standard pallet jacks. This can increase uptime and productivity.
  7. Versatility: Walkie rider pallet jacks can perform multiple tasks, such as transporting, stacking, and order picking, making them versatile tools for warehouse operations.
  8. Operator Comfort: The rider platform on a walkie rider is designed for operator comfort, often equipped with cushioned platforms and adjustable controls to reduce operator fatigue during long shifts.
  9. Safety Features: Walkie rider pallet jacks typically come with safety features such as brake systems, horn signals, and enhanced visibility, ensuring the safety of both the operator and pedestrians.
  10. Reduced Operator Footprint: Because the operator rides on the equipment, there is less of an operator footprint in the aisle. This allows for more efficient use of space in crowded warehouses.

While walkie rider pallet jacks offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider your specific material handling needs and the layout of your facility when choosing between a walkie rider and a standard electric pallet jack. Walkie riders are well-suited for applications where speed, efficiency, and operator comfort are critical, but they may not be the best choice for all warehouse settings.  For more information on our CLARK electric pallet jacks, electric walkie rider, stackers or any other material handling product, please contact us at 800-322-5435.

CLARK WPL40 Lithium Ion Powered Electric Pallet Jack

CLARK’s new WPL40, a 4,000lb. capacity, Lithium Ion powered electric pallet jack

FEATURES

PIN-WHEELING

With the handle in the fully upright position, the WPL40 pin-wheels in and out of tight spaces using a smaller, tighter turn-radius and moves up to 4,000 lbs in close-quarters with ease.

HYDRAULICS

The permanent magnet DC pump motor and chrome-plated lifting cylinder provides for smooth and efficient lifting, as well as greater durability.

BRAKES

The electromagnetic brake, mounted on the motor armature shaft, multiplies the braking power through the transmission and provides good stopping power when the control tiller is raised to the full vertical position or lowered to full horizontal position beyond the operating range. Additionally, the armature-mounted brake design:

  • Keeps the braking mechanism clear from dirt and debris
  • Automatically engages the parking brake when the truck stops and the handle is released
  • Features an anti-rollback and neutral braking system for improved safety in operation

ERGONOMIC STEER/CONTROL HANDLE

With travel, lift and lower functions all located in an ergonomic operator handle, operators can access all controls without having to lift a hand from the handle. Additionally, the WPL40 control-handle includes:

  • A solid steel tubing control tiller arm and control handles meant to outlast cast aluminum or plastic designs
  • Angled control handle grips allowing easy operation with either hand
  • An emergency reversing switch, thumb control, and horn — all standard
  • The low-mounted tiller arm supports minimum steering effort for greater operator comfort
  • The gas-assisted spring gently returns the control tiller arm to a vertical position
  • Crawl speed switch enables the operator greater-ease-of-use in tight spaces

FORK DESIGN WITH TAPERED TIPS

The WPL40’s fork construction and pallet entry slide system, which allows a lifting of the forks up-and-over the bottom board, provides easy pallet access. The forks, at 27” OAW x 46.0 OAL, can achieve a maximum elevation of over 7.5”. The shape of the load wheel housing or toe box, ensures pallet entry and exit can occur without the need for wearable rollers.

48-VOLT LITHIUM-ION BATTERY POWER OUTPUT

The Lithium-Ion 48-Volt battery provides the same power-output all the way through the charge cycle — giving the operator the same power during the first 10% of the charge as the last 10% as well as surpassing the truck charge power from similar lead-acid batteries.

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTRY

The water-resistant connectors and shrouded wiring harness supply power reliably to key components. The WPL40 system includes a key switch, emergency power disconnect, and onboard dock for Easy Exchange Battery.

SERVICEABILITY

The removable covers and the modular design of the WPL40’s components provide for easy maintenance with simple hand tools. And the two-piece drive wheel reduces the complexity of tire changes.

GEAR TECHNOLOGY

The state-of-the-art optimized gear technology supplies advantages such as low noise level, high efficiency, and high performance.

MAINTENANCE

The fully adjustable pull rods and torsion bar extends the WPL40 operating life in delivery truck and dock use applications. The WPL40 goes further with easily accessible grease zerks for easier maintenance.

For more information or a quote on the WPL40, please contact us at 800-322-5438.

CLARK’s New WPL25 Electric Walkie Pallet Jack Video

CLARK’s new Lithium Ion battery powered pallet jack, weighs in at less than 300lbs, but can carry quite a load and improve productivity in your materials handling operation. See the features and advantages of this little workhorse, then contact us for a quote or call us at 800-322-LIFT.