How to use a sack truck

Using a sack truck is easy and can make the process of manual handling a safer and easier task for employees when transporting heavy or bulky items. 

To use a sack truck you can simply add your items to the toe plate, ensuring you don’t go over the truck’s maximum weight limit, and tilt the sack truck backwards before pushing or pulling it in the right direction once loaded. Some sack trucks will feature a folding toe plate which will need pushing down before items can be stacked onto the truck – it is important that the heavier/bulkier items are placed at the bottom to prevent any items from falling which may cause damage. 

What is a sack truck used for? 

A sack truck is commonly used in workplaces such as offices and warehouses when transporting heavy or bulky loads from one location to another. That said, because they are so easy to use and can be compact, they are suitable for use in most commercial settings. 

Types of sack trucks

There are a range of sack trucks available with different features, including: 

  • Standard sack truck – sack trucks typically feature a robust steel frame, two wheels, and a handle for users to hold when moving goods.
  • Folding sack trucks – these sack trucks feature a foldable toe plate so that they can be stored away when they are not needed, making them space-efficient. The fact that they can easily be folded means that they are also mobile and can be transported to events or used outside of the warehouse/workplace.
  • Stair-climbing sack trucks – these sack trucks feature a tri-wheel system which allows them to carry loads up and downstairs and over platforms easily in comparison to standard sack trucks. 
  • Multi-position sack trucks – multi-position sack trucks are incredibly versatile as they can be fixed into the best position for the load which needs transporting. 
  • Heavy-duty sack trucks – these sack trucks have a higher capacity to transport heavier loads. Here at Manutan, we have a range of heavy-duty sack trucks which have load capacities of up to 500kg. 

Not sure which sack truck is right for you? Speak to our team for more information on our products.

Advantages of sack trucks

Sack trucks can benefit workplaces in many ways including: 

  • Reducing the risk of injuries when manual handling – manual handling can cause injuries to employees when it is not done properly. Sack trucks reduce the amount of time employees have to hold heavy loads which in turn, reduces the likelihood of strains and injury.
  • Increasing productivity – sack trucks help to speed up the process of transporting goods which allow employees to move loads quicker, saving time for other important tasks. 
  • They are versatile – sack trucks can be used for a variety of manual handling tasks in different commercial settings. Multi-position sack trucks are particularly flexible as they can be positioned to suit your specific needs. 
  • They can be space-efficient – folding sack trucks can simply be folded up and placed in storage when they are not being used which keeps floor space free.
  • They are easy to use – thanks to their simple design, sack trucks can be used by anyone but care should still be taken to ensure that employees adhere to manual handling guidelines.

Looking for a sack truck? 

Here at Manutan, we have a wide range of trucks and trolleys including sack trucks to make transporting goods in commercial settings a much quicker and easier process. 

Want to find out more about our sack trucks or other products? Get in touch and a member of our friendly team will be happy to assist you with your enquiry. 

Kyle Bones