The “Pallet Truck” 75 Years Old
03 Dec 2014
Today, we pay homage to a sight likely very common for those among you who regularly handle pallets.
Wooden pallets have long been the go to choice for shipping and handling large consignments of goods. 75 years ago today, the humble pallet truck – the power-forked-tiering truck used worldwide – was first patented. Along with this, the hand truck used to move pallets around on a smaller scale and by hand was patented.
The simple system uses the very bottom of the pallet to support its load and allow other pallets to be stacked on top of them whilst offering easy maneuverability. The two pronged lift hasn’t changed a great deal in 75 years and as such is still instantly recognisable in the world of logistics.
To celebrate the 75th anniversary of these industry changing developments, Raymond Handling Concepts Corporation.
This simple invention completely revolutionised the way that handling and shipping could be conducted, and being patented at a time very similar to the time that the pallet itself was patented has meant that the industry could instantly be implemented and instantly be grown. Today, it is impossible to imagine the logistics industry without pallets – just as it is to imagine the pallet industry without these essential tools.
Their longevity is a testament to their ingenuity and essential to our continued development. So, here’s to the sturdy, handy pallet truck. Long may it live on!