There’s a lot of equipment out there to help with manual material handling. But what are the different types, and which one is right for your specific application?

Material handling is a huge part of any business, you need the right equipment to make it happen safely and efficiently.

In this post, we’ll go over the different types of material handling equipment available and what each one is best suited for. We’ll also talk about safety considerations when using this equipment. Read on for all the info you need!

1. Manual Material Handling Equipment Introduction

Manual material handling equipment is any type of equipment used to move or handle materials without the assistance of a motor. Examples of material handling equipment include manual tools like forks and manual pallet jacks, or manual vehicles like carts and dollies.

Manual material handling systems can make it easier and safer to move materials around a facility and can help to improve worker productivity.

2. The Benefits of Manual Material Handling Equipment in Warehouse Operations

There are many benefits of manual material handling equipment in warehouse operations. Some of the key advantages include:

Increased Productivity

When workers are using different types of material handling equipment, they can move more products faster and more efficiently than if they were using their hands alone. This can lead to increased productivity in the warehouse.

Increased Safety

Manual material handling equipment can help to increase safety in the warehouse by preventing injuries from lifting and carrying heavy objects.

Reduced Costs

The use of manual material handling equipment can help to reduce costs associated with injuries, workers’ compensation claims, and lost time from work.

Increased Efficiency

A manual material handling system can help to increase the efficiency of warehouse material handling process operations by reducing the time it takes to complete tasks.

Improved Quality

Using manual material handling equipment can help to improve the quality of warehouse operations by ensuring that products are handled safely and securely via manual storage equipment.

Increased Flexibility

Manual material handling equipment can be used in a variety of different ways to meet the specific needs of the warehouse.

Overall, the benefits of manual material handling equipment in warehouse operations are numerous.

3. The Different Types of Manual Material Handling Equipment

There are several different types of manual material handling equipment that is used to move and handle materials. Some of the most common types of bulk material handling equipment include hand trucks, pallet trucks, straddle stackers, and forklifts.

Hand Trucks

Hand trucks are simple devices that consist of a metal frame with two handles and a platform on which materials can be placed. Hand trucks are used to move materials from one location to another.

Pallet Trucks

Pallet trucks are similar to hand trucks, but they have a hydraulic mechanism that is used to raise and lower pallets. Pallet trucks are used to move heavy pallets of materials from one location to another.

Straddle Stackers

Straddle stackers are manual pneumatic material handling equipment that can be used to move heavy loads around a warehouse or factory. They have a large lifting capacity and can reach high shelves, making them ideal for storing or retrieving heavy items.

Forklifts

Forklifts are powered by gasoline or diesel engines and are used to move heavy materials from one location to another. Forklifts have a lifting mechanism that is used to raise and lower materials.

4. How to Choose the Right Type of Manual Material Handling Equipment

When it comes to manual material handling (MMH), there are a variety of different pieces of equipment that can be used to make the process easier. Which type of MMH equipment is right for your specific needs? Here are a few tips on how to choose the right type of manual material handling equipment:

Consider the Weight and Size of the Objects to be Moved

Weight and size are important factors to consider when it comes to the type of manual material handling equipment you’ll need because they’ll determine how much force is required to move the object.

• For example, a heavier object will require more force to move than a lighter one. And, a large object may be more difficult to maneuver than a smaller one.

Determine the Distance the Objects will Need to Be Moved

If you’re only moving objects a short distance, then manual material handling equipment like a pallet truck or two-wheeler may be all you need.

The distance the objects will need to be moved is also an important factor to consider because it’ll determine how much time and effort will be required to move them.

Consider the Terrain

When choosing manual material handling equipment, it’s important to consider the terrain you’ll be working on. If you’re only dealing with flat surfaces, then almost any manually powered materials handling equipment will do.

However, if you’re regularly moving objects up and down stairs or over rough terrain, then you’ll need something that’s specifically designed for that, like a stair climber or hand truck with all-terrain wheels.

The terrain you’ll be working on is also an important factor to consider because it’ll determine how much effort will be required to move the objects and whether or not the equipment you choose can get the job done.

Consider the Frequency of Use

The frequency of use is also an important factor to consider because it’ll determine how much value you’ll get out of the equipment.

• For example, if you’re only using it once in a while, then something less expensive may be just fine. However, if you’re using it all the time, then you’ll want something that’s built to last and can stand up to regular use.

5. Price Comparison of Manual Material Handling Equipment

There is a wide range of manual material handling equipment available on the market, here’s the price comparison of the most common manual labor warehouse equipment:

No.	Equipment	Price
1	Hand Trucks	US$100 to US$300
2	Pallet Trucks	US$150 to US$1,00
3	Straddle Stackers	US$500 to US$4,00
4	Forklifts	US$500 and US$5,000

Hand Trucks Prices

There is a wide range of prices for hand trucks, depending on the type and quality of the truck. Generally, manual hand trucks are affordable, with prices ranging from around US$100 to US$300.

Pallet Trucks Prices

Pallet truck prices may vary depending on the brand, features, and other factors. However, manual pallet trucks typically cost anywhere from US$150 to US$1,000.

Straddle Stackers Prices

The price for Straddle Stackers can vary depending on the model and features. Typically, they cost anywhere from US$500 to US$4,000.

Forklifts Prices

The manual Forklift prices can vary depending on the model and the features it has. Typically, manual Forklifts cost between US$500 and US$5,000.

6. Where to Find Manual Material Handling Equipment Manufacturers

Manual material handling equipment can be found through a variety of channels. Some of the most common places to find manual material handling equipment manufacturers include:

Search Engines

One of the easiest ways to find manual material handling equipment manufacturers, such as Uforklift, is to use an internet search engine.

Industry-Specific Trade Publications

Another great way to find manual material handling equipment manufacturers is through industry-specific trade publications.

These publications often have directories of manufacturers and suppliers, as well as helpful articles and tips on manual material handling equipment.

Trade Associations

Trade associations are also a valuable resource for manual material handling equipment manufacturers. These organizations can provide a wealth of information on the latest trends in manual material handling equipment, as well as a directory of manufacturers.

7. Safety Tips for Using Manual Material Handling Equipment

When using manual material handling equipment, it is important to keep the following safety tips in mind:

Use the Proper Lifting Technique

Always use the proper lifting techniques. Avoid using the back to lift heavy objects. Instead, use the legs to do the lifting. Also, avoid twisting the body when lifting. These activities can lead to serious injuries.

Use Mechanical Aids

Another safety tip is to use mechanical aids whenever possible. Mechanical aids can help reduce the amount of manual labor required to complete a task. This can help reduce the risk of injury.

Be Cautious

Use caution when handling sharp or pointed objects. Wear gloves and other protective gear when necessary.

Be Aware of the Surroundings

If there are potential hazards in the area, take steps to avoid them. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and stay alert.

Wear the Right Clothing

When using manual material handling equipment, it is important to wear the right clothing. This includes:

• Closed-toe shoes
• Long pants
• Shirts with sleeves

Also, avoid loose clothing that could get caught in the equipment.

By following these safety tips, you can help prevent injuries while using manual material handling equipment.

8. 5 Tips on Choosing the Right Manually Powered Materials Handling Equipment

There are a few things you need to consider when choosing the right manual material handling equipment for your needs.

#1 Consider the Weight of the Objects to be Moved

The first thing to consider is the weight of the objects you will be moving.

• If you are moving heavy objects, you will need a manual forklift.
• If you are moving lighter objects, a manual hand truck or manual pallet jack should be sufficient.

#2 Consider the Type of Surface

The second thing to consider is the type of surface you will be using the manual material handling equipment on.

• If you are using it on a smooth surface, such as concrete, you will need a manual hand truck or manual pallet jack.
• If you are using it on an uneven surface, such as gravel or grass, you will need a manual forklift.

#3 Consider the Height of the Objects to be Moved

The third thing to consider is the height of the objects you will be moving.

• If you are moving taller objects, you will need a manual forklift.
• If you are moving shorter objects, a manual hand truck or manual pallet jack should be sufficient.

#4 Consider the Number of the Objects to be Moved

The fourth thing to consider is the number of objects you will be moving.

• If you are moving a large number of objects, you will need a manual forklift.
• If you are moving a smaller number of objects, a manual hand truck or manual pallet jack should be sufficient.

#5 Consider the Distance

The fifth thing to consider is the distance you will be moving the objects.

• If you are moving the objects a long distance, you will need a manual forklift.
• If you are moving the objects a shorter distance, a manual hand truck or manual pallet jack should be sufficient.

When choosing the right manual material handling equipment for your needs, keep these five factors in mind.

9. Conclusion

Material handling is a huge part of any business. You need the right equipment to make it happen safely and efficiently.

In this post, we’ve gone over the different types of material handling equipment available and what each one is best suited for. We’ve also talked about safety considerations when using this equipment. 

Contact us today at Uforklift if you’re ready to invest in some material handling equipment for your business! We can help you find the perfect solution for your specific needs.