How can I avoid wear to the wheels of my pallet truck?

It is quite simple to extend the life span of your pallet trucks wheels, but to do so, it is important to know what the causes are of premature wear.

Different factors can have an influence on the rate of wear on your wheels:

·        The material of the wheels

·        The storage area of your pallet truck

·        The conditions of use

What type of wheels is your pallet truck equipped with?

The wheels can be made of different materials, and most budget brand HPT’s are usually fitted with PU (polyurethane) wheels.

If you don't use your pallet truck intensively, but only on a smooth surface and to transport light to medium-heavy goods, then this is an excellent choice.

However, if you move heavy loads or work on a rough surface you should opt for VU wheels, also called Vulkollan.

These are more expensive than the PU version, but in exchange you get wheels of a superior quality that wear much more slowly.

Find a suitable storage space for your pallet truck

Once you have the correct wheels, it is important to store the pallet truck in a suitable location. If you store it outside or in an extremely cold location, the bearings of the wheels will rust much faster.

If outdoor storage is the only option, you should choose wheels with stainless steel bearings.

As most pallet truck wheels are not usually fitted with stainless bearings and your pallet truck is stored outdoors or in a cold or damp location why not call a member of our team and we can talk you through your options.

Keep it clean

Whenever waste such as tape or strings end up caught in the wheel, premature wear will occur. Always ensure that the wheels are checked regularly throughout the working shift and any debris removed without delay.

Friction between the surface and the waste caught around or between the wheel, will gradually cause more and more damage.

Avoid leaving you pallet trucks loaded

Never leave your pallet truck parked in a location in loaded condition. This will result in a flat spot on the wheels.

If you follow these guidelines you will maximise the life of your pallet truck wheels. However, if your wheels don’t roll, the truck squeaks when moved or it is just in need of a little TLC, we have the parts to fix it.

BCF Handling  are one of the UK’s largest stockists of pallet truck spare parts. If you are unsure of your needs our team are on hand to assist you on +44 (0)28 9344 0526