Stackers come in three power levels. Picking the right one is about frequency, height and distance.
Manual stacker
Hydraulic pump lift, manual push. Best for occasional stacking up to 3 m in small stores and workshops, or where there is no charging point. Lowest cost, no running expenses.
Semi-electric stacker
Electric lift and lower, manual travel. Removes the hardest part of the job — pumping a load to height — while keeping the price modest. Ideal for medium-frequency stacking with short travel distances.
Fully electric stacker
Powered travel and lift. Necessary when the stacker is used through the shift, travel distances are long, or lift heights go beyond 3 m (EP make walkie stackers reach 5.5 m). Lithium-ion versions add opportunity charging and zero maintenance.
Special cases
- Counter balance stackers have no outriggers, so they can handle closed pallets and load into machines.
- Reach stackers place pallets deep into racking from narrow aisles.
- Attachments such as bale clamps, paper reel clamps and booms can be fitted to manual and semi-electric models.
Rule of thumb
Under 20 lifts a day → manual. 20–80 lifts a day → semi-electric. More than that, or heights above 3 m → fully electric.