Pallet forks are one of the most adaptable and well-used miniature accessories. It is commonly used in industrial plants, construction sites, landscaping work and agricultural tasks. Having this accessory for your skid steer loader will help you save time and labor costs.
All pallet fork frames are not created equal. To avoid unnecessary expenses, you need to know how to make the right decision to get the best pallet fork frame according to your needs. Most people find choosing a miniature pallet fork frame overwhelming and challenging as it requires many essential considerations.
One of the most integral factors when selecting a rack is miniature capacity. Identify whether you need light, standard or heavy duty attachments by knowing the load and lift capacity of your skid steer.
Light pallet fork racks they are usually designed for skid steers and track loaders. Its capacity is about 2,500 pounds, while Standard service pallet forks they are about 4,000 to 5,000 pounds. They can be used on full size minicarts. Heavy duty pallet forks they are perfect for large skid steers with a capacity of up to 10,000 lbs.
The general rule of thumb is to deduct the weight of the rack and pallet forks from your equipment’s load-lifting capacity. Exceeding this volume can cause the miniature to become unstable, endangering the operator and damaging pallet forks or equipment.
Common classes of miniature pallet fork frames
Understanding your pallet fork rack cart class is critical because it will help you know which pallet forks will work with your rack. There are four common classes of forks and pallet frames: Class 1, 2, 3 and 4. To determine which class you have, simply measure the distance between the upper and lower carriage bars.
Class 1 stands 13″ tall with a lift capacity of less than 2,200 lbs
Class 2 stands 16″ tall with a lift capacity of 2,200 lbs to 5,500 lbs
Class 3stands 20″ tall with a lift capacity of 5,500 lbs to 11,000 lbs
Class 4 stands 25″ tall with a lift capacity between 11,000 lbs and 17,600 lbs
Pallet forks should only be combined with frames of the same class. Therefore, it is essential to know the forks and pallet frame.
For example, a Class 2 frame cannot be combined with Class 3 forks because the classification identifies the “hangar” or “hook” space in the forks and frame.
Pallet fork frame style
Pallet fork frames are built with different features or accessibility that should be considered before purchasing one.
Walk through frames
One of the common styles is the walk pallet fork frame. This style has a large opening in the rear to allow the driver to quickly enter the skid steer. Instead of climbing around or over the rear fork frame, simply step over it. Work safety is well thought out in this popular set of forks, offering a much safer way to get in and out of your machine.
Low profile frames
Others also prefer the Low profile pallet fork frames for increased forward visibility while operating the skid steer.
Brick guards
Pallet fork frames with Brick guards they are also popular. These frames prevent damage to the model if the load tilts back towards the model.
Frames with Steps
Others are built with steps which are usually mounted on each side of the pallet fork frame, which helps the driver quickly enter or exit the model.
Recommended pallet fork frame manufacturers
If you have already decided to get a pallet fork rack accessory for your miniature. I have a few manufacturers that I can suggest you consider. These reputable companies manufacture quality, durable pallet fork frames to high specifications and are thoroughly tested.
Berlon Industries
At the top of the list that offers high quality pallet fork rack accessories is Berlon Industries. The company is known for offering premium attachments without a premium price. Providing long lasting and high quality attachments not only for Skid Steer Loaders, but also for Skid Steer Loaders, Tractor Loaders, Compact Utility Tractors and Wheel Loaders.. End users always appreciate the quality and durability of the attachments they offer.
All Berlon pallet fork attachments are made in the USA and are available in 2,500 lb load capacities. up to 10,000 pounds, classified as light, standard or heavy duty.
Star Industries
Next in line is Star Industries. A leading manufacturer of heavy-duty accessories for the construction industry since 1981. Some of the largest operators and equipment owners in Canada and the US rely on the company to improve productivity, save time and reduce costs of capital and labor. Offering a solid 5-year factory warranty on almost all products to assure customers of the high-quality accessories they sell.
Star Industries miniature forks and frames will turn your loader into a forklift.
Attachments Haugen
Last but not least is Haugen Attachments. They make over 50 accessories for skid steers, including pallet fork frames, brooms, skeleton rock buckets, staples, ties, tree shears and more.
From simple jobs to tough tasks, they have the add-on you’ll need. Haugen started in 1994. They prioritize their customers’ feedback and give them what they ask for. Haugen Attachments builds all of its fork attachments in the USA using only US steel and qualified fabricators.
conclusion
Whichever manufacturer you decide to get your pallet fork frame mount from, you’re sure to get the most bang for your buck!
Make sure you’re getting the right set to handle your most common jobs safely, and you’ll get many years of service from this versatile miniature accessory.
To see our full collection of pallet forks and frames, click here!
