Operator Assist Technologies Transform Electric Pallet Jack Operations

By: Chad Kritzman, Contributor

The growth of electric pallet jacks in warehouses and distribution centers is accelerating. In fact, according to P&S Intelligence, the electric pallet jack and stacker market in 2024 was valued at approximately $5.11 billion and is projected to reach $7.07 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 5.6% during this period.

As e-commerce and customer demands push facilities to move more products, warehouse managers are faced with the challenge of increasing this throughput and accuracy without increasing operator fatigue. Electric pallet jacks provide a scalable solution, offering consistent performance with less physical strain. But the real game-changer is the integration of operator assist technologies — features like slowdown functionality, in-aisle navigation and stability controls.

Electric pallet jacks, when paired with operator assist technologies, can reduce the physical demands on workers and increase efficiency. From minimizing picking errors and maximizing productivity to improving fulfillment times and enhancing operator best practices, these technologies allow operators to focus on productive movement rather than repetitive dismounts.

OPERATOR ASSIST TECHNOLOGIES

As operator assist technologies become more prevalent, warehouse managers are faced with an overwhelming variety of solutions. The challenge might not even be adopting new technology but knowing which technologies will benefit your operation’s specific needs. It’s a strategic approach that can be assisted with the right partner that can understand and assess your application to ensure the right technology is a fit for your facility. When chosen wisely, the solutions don’t just support your operators and business; they unlock new possibilities.

Here are two technologies that can increase accuracy and boost productivity:

1. Pick-to-light systems visually indicate correct product placement in batch picking applications by illuminating LED lights embedded in the forks under the A, B, C or D pallet position.
2. In-aisle navigation and obstacle detection systems can minimize the pick cycle time by allowing operators to remotely command the lift truck to travel tractor-first in an aisle between picks. The systems help increase efficiency by optimizing operator picking position from pick to pick and help reduce operator physical demands by minimizing lift truck mounts and dismounts.

Combining the in-aisle navigation with pick-to-light systems can allow for even greater picking efficiency, accuracy and productivity.

THE FUTURE OF OPERATOR ASSIST TECHNOLOGIES

Operator assist technologies are no longer reserved for high-end lift trucks — they’re moving into foundational equipment, like pallet trucks. In the race for warehouse efficiency, operator assist technologies are a low-profile, high-impact differentiator. Pallet trucks equipped with these features become more than tools — they become enablers of accuracy, security and speed.

As more technologies hit the market, it’s also important to remember the human-machine interface. No matter how advanced or sophisticated a technology is, if it isn’t intuitive or accessible for operators, it isn’t helpful. Keep in mind that empowering operators plays a direct role in reducing errors, fatigue and frustration on the warehouse floor. wmhs

Chad Kritzman is Product Manager, Class III, The Raymond Corporation, a member of the Toyota Industries family of companies. The Raymond Corporation is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions that optimize entire operations, deliver actionable insights, and transform operations through automation. Visit: https://www.raymondcorp.com