Discover 7 manual forklift types and their specific uses. Learn how each manual forklift helps improve material handling in warehouses and industries.
Not every warehouse or work site needs a big, expensive forklift. Sometimes, the job calls for something simpler, lighter, and more affordable. That’s where manual forklifts come in. These tools may not have motors, but they still do a powerful job—moving loads, stacking items, and making warehouse work easier. They’re perfect for small businesses, tight spaces, and daily warehouse operations that don’t require full-sized machines.
In this guide, we’ll go over 7 manual forklift types and how each one is used. Whether you’re handling boxes, barrels, pallets, or platforms, there’s a manual solution for you. And if you’re looking for reliable, affordable equipment for your workplace, Jugnoo Transport is your trusted partner for manual handling tools and forklifts.
1. Manual Stacker
Let’s start with the popular and versatile Manual Stacker—a simple yet powerful tool used for lifting and stacking pallets.
What Is a Manual Stacker?
A Manual Stacker is a hand-operated machine that uses a hydraulic system to lift loads, usually up to a few feet high. It doesn’t require electricity or fuel, just a little muscle.
Why It’s Useful
- Great for lifting pallets to shelving
- Compact and easy to move in tight spaces
- Ideal for indoor, low-volume applications
Where to Use It
Manual Stackers are perfect for retail warehouses, workshops, storage rooms, and small loading areas. If you often need to lift and place items on racks without needing a full-size forklift, this is your go-to tool.
At Jugnoo Transport, we offer a variety of Manual Stackers tailored to meet your lifting needs—lightweight, durable, and ready to work.
2. Manual Pallet Jack
The Manual Pallet Jack is a must-have for any business handling pallets. It’s one of the simplest tools but also one of the most essential.
What Is a Manual Pallet Jack?
A Manual Pallet Jack is a hand-pumped forklift used to lift and move pallets around the floor. You pump the handle to raise the forks and pull or push to move the load.
Why It’s Useful
- Easy to use, no license needed
- Low maintenance and affordable
- Perfect for short-distance moving
Where to Use It
Ideal for retail stores, warehouses, supermarkets, and delivery vans. The Manual Pallet Jack can quickly move stock from one end of the warehouse to the other with minimal effort.
Jugnoo Transport provides Manual Pallet Jacks that are strong, smooth to operate, and suitable for various floor types.
3. Scissor Lift Pallet Truck
If you need to lift pallets higher than a regular jack allows, the Scissor Lift Pallet Truck is what you’re looking for.
What Is a Scissor Lift Pallet Truck?
This manual tool combines the movement of a pallet jack with the lifting power of a scissor lift. It raises loads to work height so that workers can pick or place items without bending down.
Why It’s Useful
- Reduces back strain and improves ergonomics
- Acts as both a lifter and a transporter
- Stable and safe for workbench height lifting
Where to Use It
Use it in packaging stations, assembly lines, or any place where frequent loading and unloading at waist height occurs. A Scissor Lift Pallet Truck is great for both safety and productivity.
At Jugnoo Transport, we carry top-rated Scissor Lift Pallet Trucks to help your staff work smarter, not harder.
4. Hydraulic Hand Forklift
When you need power without plugging in, a Hydraulic Hand Forklift delivers. It’s one of the strongest manual tools for heavy lifting.
What Is a Hydraulic Hand Forklift?
This is a hand-powered forklift that uses hydraulic pumps to lift heavier loads, usually more than a typical manual jack can handle. It can lift pallets several feet high with minimal effort.
Why It’s Useful
- Strong enough for heavier pallets
- No batteries, no fuel—just hydraulic power
- Easier lifting with less physical strain
Where to Use It
These forklifts are best suited for areas with heavy materials and limited access to power. Use them in hardware stores, warehouses, or small-scale manufacturing units.
Jugnoo Transport has rugged Hydraulic Hand Forklifts for rent and purchase—reliable and ready for tough tasks.
5. Walkie Stackers (Semi-Electric/Manual)
Looking for something between a manual and an electric forklift? Then you need Walkie Stackers, a smart hybrid for medium-duty work.
What Are Walkie Stackers?
These are pedestrian-operated forklifts with electric lift (semi-electric) or fully manual lift options. The operator walks behind the unit and steers it like a shopping cart.
Why It’s Useful
- Requires less strength than a manual stacker
- Easier on the arms and back
- Good for frequent light stacking tasks
Where to Use It
Perfect for indoor warehouses, inventory rooms, and small logistics centers. Walkie Stackers (Semi-Electric/Manual) offer excellent control and are easy to store when not in use.
Jugnoo Transport offers both manual and semi-electric Walkie Stackers with competitive rental plans.
6. Manual Platform Truck
Need a simple way to move boxes, crates, or small loads? The Manual Platform Truck is your answer.
What Is a Manual Platform Truck?
This is a flatbed cart with wheels and a handle. It’s a low-tech solution, but incredibly useful for moving smaller, irregular-shaped items.
Why It’s Useful
- Lightweight and very easy to use
- Moves a variety of items, not just pallets
- Doesn’t need special training
Where to Use It
Ideal for delivery centers, libraries, schools, and storage rooms. The Manual Platform Truck is perfect for small businesses and non-industrial settings.
Jugnoo Transport supplies durable Manual Platform Trucks that can handle everyday tasks with ease.
7. Drum Handling Forklift
Handling drums can be tricky and unsafe without the right equipment. The Drum Handling Forklift makes it safer and faster.
What Is a Drum Handling Forklift?
This is a specialized manual forklift designed to lift, transport, and sometimes rotate drums. It grips the barrel securely so it doesn’t slip or fall.
Why It’s Useful
- Prevents spills and injuries
- Efficient for chemical and liquid storage areas
- Saves time and labor
Where to Use It
Use it in chemical plants, food production warehouses, and oil storage facilities. The Drum Handling Forklift is a must-have for anyone working with large barrels or drums.
Jugnoo Transport stocks Drum Handling Forklifts for both sale and rent—safe, affordable, and easy to operate.
Conclusion
Manual forklifts might not have engines, but they’re strong, smart, and essential for many warehouse tasks. Whether you need to move pallets, lift drums, or carry boxes, there’s a manual forklift built for the job.
Let’s recap:
- Choose a Manual Stacker for basic lifting and stacking.
- Use a Manual Pallet Jack for everyday pallet transport.
- Get a Scissor Lift Pallet Truck for ergonomic, waist-height lifting.
- Try a Hydraulic Hand Forklift for heavier manual loads.
- Pick a Walkie Stacker (Semi-Electric/Manual) for mixed tasks.
- Use a Manual Platform Truck for moving irregular loads.
- And don’t forget the Drum Handling Forklift for safe barrel work.
At Jugnoo Transport, we provide all these models and more. With great service, flexible rentals, and expert advice, we help you get the job done—without breaking your budget or your back.
FAQs
A Manual Stacker is good for lighter loads, while a Hydraulic Hand Forklift handles heavier items with more lifting power.
It’s best used on flat, smooth surfaces. For ramps or uneven areas, consider a powered model for safety.
Think about your load size, lifting height, and frequency. Or call Jugnoo Transport—we’ll help you choose the best fit.
Not at all. They’re designed for ease of use, especially in small to medium warehouses.
Yes! We offer flexible rental plans for all manual forklift types—whether you need it for a day, a week, or longer.