How to Move a Pallet Without a Forklift or Jack5 min read
moving pallets without a forklift
Claire de Barra

How do you move a pallet without a forklift?

Although pallets are a great solution for transporting heavy objects, moving them without the right equipment or method is a tricky business. If you’re wondering how to move heavy pallets safely without a forklift or pallet jack, check the alternative methods below to help you plan your delivery.

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6 ways to move a heavy pallet without a forklift or pallet jack

Pallets have a load capacity of 1,500 to 3,000 kg and are considered dangerous to manoeuvre without proper equipment. However, it is possible to move heavy pallets in other ways without a forklift, pallet jack, or heavy machinery. Just make sure to allow more time for moving pallets with these alternative methods, as they can be more challenging and time-consuming.

1. Moving a pallet with a roller crowbar

A roller crowbar is a long bar with wheels that can be rolled into position underneath the pallet. Once the crowbar is underneath the load, it can be used to lift and transport the pallet to or from the delivery vehicle.

The downside is that this tool usually costs more than a pallet jack, however, it requires far less effort to use. Make sure that the pallet is on level ground so that it can be moved easily and safely with this method.

2. Moving a pallet with a dolly

A pallet dolly is another way to move a pallet without a forklift or pallet jack. Position the dolly underneath the pallet, then use a lever to pull the load up onto the dolly.

This method is ideal for moving light loads and can even be used on uneven ground or through narrow passageways.

moving a pallet with a dolly

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3. Moving a pallet with a rope

Using a heavy-duty rope is perhaps the most cost-effective way to move a pallet without a forklift or pallet jack. However, it is a very strenuous method, and you will most likely need help from one or two other people, depending on the weight of the load.

Tie the rope securely to the pallet and drag it along the floor to its new location. Be careful not to drag the pallet too fast, or you could cause damage or injury.

4. Moving a pallet with wheels

Another solution is to get a thick piece of plywood (from your warehouse or nearest hardware store), screw castor wheels on each corner, and then lift the pallet on top of the platform using a lever.

This method is not very efficient because of the additional DIY steps and potential costs involved. However, if you need to move a pallet without a forklift or pallet jack, it’s better than nothing.

5. Moving a pallet with sheets

This is a method commonly used by furniture movers to shift heavy objects. Pull your pallet onto the sheet, then drag the sheet to wherever the pallet needs to go.

Although sheets are not usually used for palletised loads, they can be a solution for moving your heavy pallet if you don’t have access to a jack or other equipment.

6. Remove the load from the pallet by hand

If you have no tools or options to help you move the pallet, you will probably have to depalletise the load first and move the items individually.

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Safety tips when moving a heavy pallet without a forklift or jack

Now that you know more about how to pick up a pallet without a forklift or pallet jack, check the following guidelines to keep you and your load safe from harm:

  • Get one or more helpers
  • Wear gloves to protect your hands
  • Secure the load with ropes or straps
  • Make sure your moving method is suitable for your load type and size

Do I need to load the pallets on the truck myself when shipping with Eurosender?

It depends on the service you choose.

In Groupage transport, the driver normally brings equipment and does the loading and unloading, however this is not always guaranteed. Please check with us when booking the service as there may be exceptions on your route.

For Van Delivery and other freight services such as LTL and FTL transport, it is your responsibility to load and unload the cargo. This can be done with a forklift or another method of your choice.

Booking a pallet delivery service with Eurosender

If moving your pallets will be a challenge, take the stress out of it by booking a pallet collection service with Eurosender! Pallet loading equipment such as pallet jacks and tail lift services are available on request.

Contact our experts for more information, and make sure to specify your requirements if you need pallet loading equipment.

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Interested in learning more about pallet and freight shipping? Check all our articles about pallet deliveries.