Material handling equipment plays a critical role in warehouse efficiency, worker safety, and cost control. As operations continue to scale in 2026, choosing the right carts, trucks, and pallet jacks is no longer just about moving goods—it’s about optimizing workflows, reducing labor strain, and supporting faster fulfillment.
This guide explains the most common types of material handling equipment, how they are used, and how to select the right solution for modern warehouses, distribution centers, and industrial facilities.
What Is Material Handling Equipment?
Material handling equipment refers to tools and systems used to move, store, control, and protect materials throughout manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution processes.
Common categories include:
- Carts and trucks
- Pallet jacks (manual and electric)
- Lift tables and stackers
- Conveyors and automated systems
In this article, we focus on carts, trucks, and pallet jacks, as they remain the most widely used and cost-effective solutions across industries.
Carts & Trucks: Flexible Solutions for Daily Warehouse Tasks
Industrial carts and trucks are designed to transport goods over short distances within a facility. They offer flexibility, low upfront cost, and ease of use—making them essential for daily operations.
Common Types of Carts & Trucks
- Utility carts for tools, supplies, and small loads
- Platform trucks for bulk cartons and heavy items
- Service carts for maintenance and assembly areas
- Panel carts for oversized or flat materials
These solutions are ideal for:
- Order picking and staging
- Workstation replenishment
- Maintenance and repair operations
- Assembly and kitting workflows
Explore a full range of industrial carts and trucks here: Carts & Trucks Collection
Pallet Jacks: The Backbone of Pallet Movement
Pallet jacks—also known as pallet trucks—are essential for moving palletized goods in warehouses, retail backrooms, and loading areas.
Types of Pallet Jacks
Manual Pallet Jacks
- Cost-effective and easy to maintain
- Ideal for short distances and lighter loads
- Commonly used in small to mid-size warehouses
Electric Pallet Jacks
- Reduce operator fatigue
- Increase productivity for repetitive pallet movement
- Ideal for high-volume or long-distance transport
Pallet jacks are commonly used for:
- Loading and unloading trailers
- Transferring pallets between storage zones
- Supporting order fulfillment and cross-docking
View available pallet jack options here: Pallet Trucks & Jacks
How to Choose the Right Material Handling Equipment in 2026
Selecting the right equipment depends on your operational requirements. Key factors to consider include:
1. Load Capacity
Understand the average and maximum weight of materials being moved. Overloading equipment increases safety risks and maintenance costs.
2. Travel Distance
Short, occasional movements may only require manual carts or pallet jacks, while longer distances benefit from electric solutions.
3. Frequency of Use
High-frequency tasks justify investing in ergonomic and powered equipment to reduce labor strain.
4. Workspace Constraints
Aisle width, turning radius, and floor conditions directly affect equipment selection.
5. Workforce Ergonomics
Reducing push force, lifting effort, and repetitive motion injuries is a growing priority in 2026.
Ergonomics & Safety Considerations
Modern material handling strategies prioritize worker safety as much as efficiency. Poorly selected equipment can lead to back and shoulder injuries, reduced productivity, and increased downtime and turnover.
Ergonomic design features to look for include:
- Proper handle height and grip
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- Stable load platforms
- Powered assistance for heavy or repetitive tasks
Trends in Material Handling Equipment for 2026
As warehouses evolve, several trends are shaping equipment selection:
- Increased adoption of electric pallet jacks
- Modular cart systems for flexible workflows
- Ergonomic designs to support aging workforces
- Integration with lean and zone-based layouts
While automation continues to grow, manual and semi-powered material handling equipment remains essential for adaptability and cost control.
Conclusion
Carts, trucks, and pallet jacks continue to be the foundation of efficient material handling operations in 2026. By selecting the right equipment based on load, frequency, ergonomics, and layout, warehouses can improve productivity, reduce injuries, and future-proof their operations.
Whether you are optimizing an existing facility or planning a new layout, investing in the right material handling equipment is one of the most impactful decisions you can make.