GETSUP buyer guide · Last reviewed September 18, 2026
Many electric pallet jack problems are measurement problems. A truck can have enough capacity and still fail to enter the pallet, clear the floor, turn in the aisle or fit inside a trailer.
Use this worksheet before comparing models. Record real measurements at the tightest point of the route and on the least consistent pallet—not only the nominal drawing.
Quick answer
Measure maximum gross load, pallet entry height, fork-pocket spacing, pallet depth, aisle width, turning corners, doors, dock transitions, ramps and destination clearance. Compare all of them with a dimensioned drawing for the exact truck and include a safe operating margin.
Load worksheet
| Field | Your measurement | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Heaviest goods | _____ lb / kg | Use a verified maximum, not an estimate |
| Pallet and packaging | _____ lb / kg | Add to the goods for gross load |
| Maximum gross load | _____ lb / kg | Must remain within the rated capacity under permitted conditions |
| Load depth in fork direction | _____ in / mm | Helps assess support and load centre |
| Load height and stability | _____ in / mm | Affects visibility, handling and restraint planning |
| Offset or uneven loading | Yes / No | Requires specific review; do not assume nominal capacity applies |
Pallet and fork worksheet
| Measure | Where to measure | Common failure to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Entry height | Lowest clear point under the pallet | Forks or load wheels strike the bottom boards |
| Pocket width | Clear inside width of both entry pockets | Forks fit nominally but bind on damaged boards |
| Outside pocket span | Outer edge to outer edge | Outside fork width is too large |
| Pallet depth | In the fork-entry direction | Forks are too short or project where they should not |
| Bottom-board layout | Sketch boards and openings | Load wheels cannot pass a closed or cross-boarded base |
| Pallet condition | Check the worst pallets in use | Broken or sagging boards reduce clearance |
Route and turning worksheet
A turning-radius number alone does not describe the space needed by a loaded truck. Include the pallet footprint, operator position, tail swing and a safe clearance from racks, walls and pedestrians. Test the full path if a demonstration is available.
- Narrowest clear aisle width: _____
- Inside and outside corner dimensions at the sharpest turn: _____
- Door and trailer opening width/height: _____
- Elevator platform size and rated capacity: _____
- Dock plate width, rated capacity and transition height: _____
- Maximum slope, length and surface condition: _____
- Lowest overhead obstruction and pedestrian crossings: _____
- Receiving and charging locations: _____
Capacity is a limit, not a target
Do not plan normal work at or beyond the published rating. Capacity assumes the equipment is used as designed, maintained, on suitable surfaces and with a stable load. Attachments, slopes, unusual load centres and damaged pallets can change the risk even when the scale weight appears acceptable.
For any uncertainty, send the load drawing and route measurements to the supplier and request written confirmation for the exact model.
Site acceptance check before regular use
- Confirm the delivered model, rating plate, battery and charger match the order
- Inspect forks, wheels, controls, emergency reverse, horn, braking and visible damage according to the manual
- Test an empty run through the route, then follow the employer’s controlled commissioning procedure
- Verify the truck enters representative pallets without striking boards or packaging
- Document the charging location, inspection schedule and defect-reporting process
- Train and authorize operators before production use
Frequently asked questions
What does 27 x 48 inch fork size mean?
Listings often use this shorthand for the fork assembly’s outside width and length, but conventions can vary. Ask for a dimensioned drawing and confirm each dimension explicitly.
Should forks be the same length as the pallet?
They should support the load as required by the manufacturer without creating a hazard or unwanted projection. Pallet design, entry direction and application determine the suitable length.
What lowered fork height do I need?
Measure the lowest clear opening on representative pallets and allow for damaged boards, floor unevenness and wheel movement. Compare that value with the exact truck specification.
How much aisle width is enough?
It depends on the truck geometry, pallet size, turn, operator position and safety clearance. Use the manufacturer’s turning data plus a site test or layout review.
Can I use a pallet jack with a closed-bottom pallet?
Some closed or cross-boarded pallets interfere with load wheels. Verify the pallet underside and truck wheel path; a different pallet, straddle configuration or counterbalanced equipment may be required.
Does capacity change on a slope?
Slope operation is governed by the model’s instructions and can significantly affect control and braking. Do not infer slope suitability from the flat-floor capacity rating.
What measurements should I send GETSUP?
Send gross load, pallet drawings or photos, entry height, fork-pocket dimensions, pallet depth, aisle and turn dimensions, slopes, floor type, travel distance and delivery postal code.
Related GETSUP resources
Get a model-specific recommendation
Send GETSUP your load, pallet or platform dimensions, aisle or site measurements, operating environment, delivery postal code and target date. Our team can narrow the current options and flag information that still needs to be confirmed before an order.
Contact GETSUP · 905-569-8898 · info@getsupinc.com · Local pickup at 2585 Dunwin Drive, Mississauga, Ontario.