GETSUP buyer guide · Last reviewed September 18, 2026
An electric pallet stacker both moves and raises palletized loads. That added lift function makes capacity, load centre, mast geometry, pallet underside, aisle layout and floor condition more critical than they are for floor-level transport alone.
The best starting point is a drawing of the heaviest load and the highest storage position, plus measured clearances along the full route.
Quick answer
Specify the heaviest gross load, load centre, required fork height, top-beam and ceiling clearance, lowered and extended mast height, pallet underside, aisle and turn dimensions, floor condition and daily duty cycle. Ask for written residual capacity at the required lift height.
Define the lift task
- Heaviest gross load, including pallet and packaging
- Load width, depth, height and centre of gravity
- Required fork height at the highest storage position
- Beam, sprinkler, ceiling, door and mezzanine clearances
- Rack entry depth and pallet support arrangement
- Number of lifts per hour and shifts per day
- Any attachment or special load that changes the centre of gravity
Understand rated and residual capacity
A stacker’s headline capacity is not automatically available at every height or load centre. The usable capacity can decrease as the load is raised or its centre moves farther from the fork face. Request a capacity chart or written confirmation for the exact model, mast, lift height and load dimensions.
Do not estimate residual capacity by applying a simple percentage. Use manufacturer data for the delivered configuration and confirm that the rating plate matches it.
Check mast and building clearances
| Dimension | Why it matters | Measure at |
|---|---|---|
| Lowered mast height | Determines whether the stacker passes through doors and under obstructions | Lowest doorway, beam and route obstruction |
| Maximum fork height | Must place the pallet above the support level with safe clearance | Highest required rack position |
| Extended mast height | Can reach ceilings, sprinklers, lights or ducts | Highest lift location |
| Overall length and width | Affects turns and right-angle stacking | Narrowest aisle and corner |
| Straddle or support-leg width | Must fit around the pallet or rack geometry | Pallet and rack base |
| Fork dimensions | Control pallet entry and support | Representative pallets |
Counterbalanced versus support-leg designs
A counterbalanced stacker supports the load without front straddle legs around the pallet, which may help with some closed-bottom pallets and rack arrangements. The tradeoff can be a different counterweight, turning and floor-load profile.
Support-leg or straddle configurations can be compact and stable but must physically clear the pallet, rack and floor path. Do not choose by label alone; compare the exact leg, fork and chassis drawing with the application.
Floor, aisle and workflow checks
- Confirm the floor is level, sound and suitable for concentrated wheel loads
- Measure right-angle stacking space with the real pallet footprint
- Keep the lift and travel route clear of slopes unless the manual explicitly permits them
- Review floor joints, dock edges, thresholds and damaged areas
- Separate pedestrians and define travel, staging and charging zones
- Verify rack condition, load signage and pallet supports independently of the stacker purchase
Quotation and handover checklist
- Exact model, mast and rated/residual capacity data
- Lift heights offered and delivered configuration
- Lowered/extended mast height, free lift if applicable and overall dimensions
- Fork and support-leg geometry
- Battery, charger and site electrical requirement
- Travel/lift controls, braking and emergency functions
- Freight, unloading, assembly and commissioning responsibility
- Operator training, inspection documentation, warranty and parts support
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a pallet stacker and a pallet truck?
A pallet truck is mainly for floor-level horizontal movement. A stacker adds a mast to raise and place loads, so lift height, residual capacity, overhead clearance and rack interface must be evaluated.
What lift height do I need?
Measure the highest pallet support level and add the clearance needed to place the pallet safely. Then verify both maximum fork height and extended mast clearance.
Does a 3,300 lb stacker lift 3,300 lb to full height?
Not necessarily. Usable capacity can change with lift height, load centre and configuration. Request exact residual-capacity data for the intended load and height.
Can a stacker handle closed-bottom pallets?
It depends on the fork, wheel and support-leg geometry. Counterbalanced designs may suit some closed-bottom pallets, but the exact pallet underside and equipment drawing must be compared.
How wide must the aisle be?
Use the manufacturer’s right-angle stacking data with the actual pallet dimensions, then add operating and pedestrian-clearance requirements for the site.
Can I use a stacker on a ramp?
Stacking and elevated-load travel should be limited to the conditions in the manual. Many applications require level, suitable floors; do not assume ramp suitability.
Do I need to check rack capacity?
Yes. Rack condition, configuration and posted load limits are independent constraints. A stacker rating does not confirm that the rack or floor can support the load.
What information should I send for a recommendation?
Send gross load, dimensions and centre of gravity, pallet underside, highest support level, aisle and turn dimensions, door/ceiling/sprinkler clearances, floor condition and duty cycle.
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.