What Type of Stacker Do I Need? [Updated for 2025]
Quick Answer:
A pallet stacker is a material handling machine used for lifting, moving, and stacking pallets. The right stacker depends on your pallet type, lift height, load weight, environment, and frequency of use.
Quick Guide: How to Choose the Right Stacker
| Need | Best Stacker Type |
| Light manual lifting | Manual Stacker |
| Medium lifting, reduced fatigue | Semi-Electric Stacker |
| Frequent or heavy-duty use | Fully Electric Stacker |
| Outdoor or uneven ground | Rough Terrain Stacker |
What Is a Pallet Stacker?
A pallet stacker is a versatile piece of warehouse equipment used to lift, transport, and stack pallets safely and efficiently. Stackers are essential for optimising storage, reducing manual handling risks, and improving productivity in material handling operations.
Types of Stackers Explained
Manual Stackers
Manual stackers are ideal for light to medium-duty lifting tasks. They are powered manually and offer a cost-effective solution for smaller operations.
Manual Stacker Options:
- Narrow Wrap-Over Fork Stackers: Best for open-base Euro pallets, offering excellent manoeuvrability.
- Straddle Leg Stackers: Suitable for both open and closed-base pallets (like CHEP), providing stability for higher lift heights.
Semi-Electric Stackers
Semi-electric stackers combine manual movement with an electric-powered lift. They are perfect for medium-duty use, significantly reducing operator fatigue while handling various pallet types.
Fully Electric Stackers
Fully electric stackers offer powered drive and lift functions, making them the most efficient solution for busy warehouses.
Benefits of Fully Electric Stackers:
- Ideal for Euro and CHEP pallets
- Reduces manual labour
- Suitable for high-frequency operations
- Smooth, controlled lifting and movement
Rough Terrain Stackers
Rough terrain stackers are designed for outdoor work on uneven ground. They feature robust tyres, reinforced frames, and higher ground clearance.
How to Choose the Right Pallet Stacker (Checklist)
- Pallet Type: Open-base (Euro) or closed-base (CHEP)
- Load Capacity: Match your typical pallet weights
- Lift Height: Height required for racking or shelving
- Operating Environment: Indoor warehouse, outdoor yard, or rough terrain
- Usage Frequency:
- Manual for occasional use
- Electric for frequent use
Choosing the right stacker improves safety, efficiency, and overall warehouse performance.
Why Choose Liftruck UK?
At Liftruck UK, we offer a wide selection of material handling equipment including manual, semi-electric, fully electric, and rough terrain pallet stackers. We are committed to providing the highest-quality equipment to optimise your business operations.
Why Liftruck?
- Trusted supplier with decades of experience
- Wide range of premium stackers in stock
- Competitive pricing and expert advice
- Excellent after-sales service and support
View our full Pallet Stacker Range today.
Need Personalised Advice?
Our material handling experts are ready to help!
- Email us at info@liftruck.co.uk
- Call us on 0800 458 8025
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pallets can a stacker lift?
Most pallet stackers are designed to lift open-base pallets (such as Euro pallets). However, straddle leg stackers can also lift closed-base pallets, like CHEP pallets, by allowing the legs to straddle around the base.
What is the difference between a manual and electric stacker?
A manual stacker is powered by the operator using a pump or lever to lift loads and manually pushing or pulling the stacker. An electric stacker uses powered lifting (and sometimes powered driving), making it easier to lift and move pallets with less physical effort, ideal for frequent or heavy-duty use.
Can a rough terrain stacker be used indoors?
Yes, rough terrain stackers can be used indoors, but they are primarily designed for outdoor, uneven, or rugged surfaces. Their larger wheels and higher chassis make them less suitable for narrow warehouse aisles compared to traditional indoor stackers.
How do I choose between a semi-electric and fully electric stacker?
Choose a semi-electric stacker if you want powered lifting but manual movement — perfect for moderate use. Opt for a fully electric stacker if you need powered lifting and driving, essential for high-frequency, heavy-duty warehouse tasks.
What is the maximum lift height for pallet stackers?
Lift heights vary depending on the model. Standard manual stackers typically lift to around 1.6m to 3m, while electric stackers can reach up to 5.5m or more, depending on the mast type.
