08 Apr 2026
TYPES OF MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT & THEIR USES
Material handling is a core function in industries such as warehousing, manufacturing, construction, logistics and even certain marine operations. It involves the movement, storage, control and protection of materials throughout the production or distribution process. Handling materials efficiently and safely is critical, as these actions occur countless times every day.
Choosing the right type of material handling equipment not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances workplace safety and ensures compliance with industry regulations. From moving pallets of goods in a warehouse to transferring heavy construction materials or handling containers on a ship, the right tools make all the difference. This blog post will explore the main types of material handling equipment and their specific uses, highlighting how selecting the appropriate machinery can streamline processes, reduce the risk of injury and support smooth, cost-effective operations across multiple sectors.
WHAT IS MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT?
Material handling equipment is a broad term that refers to the various tools, systems and machinery options that are used to move, lift, store and generally manage materials. Across industries such as warehousing, construction and manufacturing, understanding the different types of material handling equipment is essential for maintaining efficient and safe operations. These solutions range from basic manual tools like trolleys and lifting aids, to semi-powered options like electric stackers and fully powered machinery like cranes or even conveyor systems.
Each of these types of material handling equipment is designed to reduce manual effort, improve productivity and enhance workplace safety. They are commonly grouped into key categories: lifting equipment for raising loads, transport equipment for moving items between locations, storage systems for organising materials and specialised handling solutions for unique or heavy-duty tasks.
TYPES OF MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT
There are many types of material handling equipment to choose from. Some can be used across different industries, different environments or with different powered options. This can make choosing the best option complicated, so our lifting experts have broken down our equipment options into different types.
TRANSPORT AND WAREHOUSE HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Warehouses, distribution centres, logistics, workshops and transportation are all industries that require material handling equipment throughout their work sites.
Pallet Trucks
What is a pallet truck? It is a relatively simple and very common manual or electric material handling device that is designed to move palletised loads over short distances in accessible areas. They work by sliding forks under a pallet and using a handle or motor powered hydraulic pump to lift the pallet from the ground for easier transport.
Pallet trucks are popular choices for warehouses, retail environments, distribution hubs and anywhere else that quick and efficient movement is important. They are more compact and accessible than a forklift or a winching system, require minimal training and are great for tight spots. Pallet trucks are a cost-effective and endlessly reliable staple of material handling.
Stacker Trucks
What is a stacker truck? This material handling solution is designed to lift pallets vertically as well as transporting them around a site. Unlike a pallet truck, a stacker truck can raise its loads to far higher levels and is the ideal option for placing palletised goods onto racking. Stacker trucks can be either powered or manual and are highly flexible pieces of equipment depending on their current workload or environment.
They commonly find themselves being used in both warehouses or storage facilities to maximise vertical space. Their ability to safely stack pallets reduces manual handling strain and enhances organisation, making stacker trucks an essential tool for operations requiring both lifting and positioning capabilities.
Handling Trucks, Platform Trolleys and Specialist Trucks
This selection of more specialist types of lifting equipment are more versatile tools that are used for transporting boxes, tools, components and certain irregular sized and shaped loads in a wide variety of work environments. Common in commercial retail, manufacturing and workshops, they are ideal for supporting the smooth running of day-to-day operations. Like all material handling equipment options, these trucks improve efficiency and reduce manual strain on your workforce.
- Platform trolleys provide a stable, flat surface for bulkier items
- Handling trucks are designed for easier movement on-site
- Specialist trucks and trailers are better for heavier or more complex tasks
These options enhance company-wide flexibility and give a business the capability of handling diverse materials and load types.
LIFTING EQUIPMENT
This selection of different types of material handling equipment is designed specifically for lifting material to various levels.
Lifting Jacks
A lifting jack is a mechanical device that is used to precisely raise and lower heavy loads in a safe and controlled fashion. They see plenty of usage in the construction industry, various maintenance tasks and heavy industrial projects. Either through mechanical, hydraulic, electric or pneumatic mechanisms, they can gradually lift materials, equipment, structures and even vehicles.
Lifting jacks are also useful for positioning heavy loads safely thanks to their intuitive controls, robust design, general stability and accurate movements. They typically perform well under high-pressure in certain harsh environments and can even be used in confined spaces. Whether for installations, repair tasks, structural adjustments, material movement or more, a lifting jack is an endlessly dependable solution.
Engine Crane
An engine crane is a portable lifting device designed primarily for removing and installing engines in automotive workshops. Typically fitted with a hydraulic arm, it allows users to lift heavy components with precision and minimal effort. Many engine cranes feature foldable designs, making them easy to store and transport when not in use.
Most common in garages, they provide a safe and controlled method for handling bulky engine parts. With adjustable booms and sturdy frames, engine cranes enhance safety by reducing manual lifting risks and ensuring stable, secure handling during critical repair and maintenance tasks.
Jib Cranes
A jib crane is a lifting system that features a horizontal arm, or ‘jib’, which supports a hoist for moving loads within a fixed area. Available in both wall-mounted and floor-mounted configurations, jib cranes are ideal for repetitive lifting tasks in manufacturing and assembly settings. They allow for smooth, controlled movement of materials, improving efficiency and greatly reducing operator fatigue.
Their compact design makes them suitable for workstations where space is limited, while their durability ensures long-term performance. Jib cranes are widely used to streamline operations, enhance safety and support consistent handling of materials in industrial environments.
SPECIALIST HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Not all materials, machines or objects can be lifted and moved by standard means. LES also offers a wide range of specialist handling equipment for specific jobs.
Drum Handling Equipment
Heavy drums and barrels are common in many workplaces, and it is not safe practice to lift them without the correct equipment or attachment. Drum handling equipment is designed for the safe lifting, titling and transporting of heavy drums in industrial environments like the oil, chemical or manufacturing sectors. These tools are ideal for managing hazardous or bulky liquids.
Equipment such as drum lifters, rotators and trolleys enables precise handling, reducing the risk of spills and workplace injuries. By improving operator safety and minimising manual handling, drum handling solutions support compliance with health and safety standards. Their durable construction and ergonomic design make them an essential tool for efficient drum movement in demanding operational settings.
Vacuum Lifters
A vacuum lifter is a specialised lifting device that uses suction technology to grip and move flat, non-porous materials such as glass, sheet metal and panels. By creating a vacuum seal, it allows operators to lift and position loads with minimal physical effort.
Vacuum lifters are widely used in manufacturing, construction and glazing industries where precision and care are critical. They significantly reduce manual handling risks, helping to prevent injuries and material damage. Designed for efficiency and safety, these systems enable smooth, controlled lifting while improving productivity when handling delicate or awkward materials.
Cylinder Cages and Stands
Our selection of cylinder cages and stands are designed to be the ideal storage and transportation method of gas cylinders (and other cylinders) in both industrial and commercial markets. These types of material lifting tools are commonly used in workshops, construction and laboratories, and are built to fully support and conform to all safe working practices around the transportation of gas cylinders.
By organising and securing cylinders effectively, gas cylinder cages and stands enhance workplace safety, improve accessibility and ensure responsible management of potentially hazardous materials.
LOAD MOVING EQUIPMENT
There is also the option for a selection of equipment and accessories that can assist with material handling operations.
Machine Skates and Load Moving Skates
Both machine and load moving skates are designed to vastly reduce the effort it takes to move some of the heaviest pieces of machinery you could come into contact with. Commonly used in factories, warehouses and plant installations, they allow for the safe and easier movement of large equipment to be moved during set-up or relocation. Their robust construction ensures reliability under high loads, making them essential for controlled, efficient machinery movement in industrial environments.
These skates use low-friction rollers or wheels to distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on operators and surfaces. Ideal for moving loads that cannot be lifted easily, they provide a practical solution for heavy-duty handling tasks.
Roller Crow Bars and Pinch Bars
Roller crow bars and pinch bars are essential tools for lifting and positioning heavy equipment with precision. Designed to provide leverage, they allow operators to raise or shift machinery safely, even in tight or confined spaces. Roller crow bars feature integrated wheels, enabling smoother movement once a load is lifted, while pinch bars are ideal for initial lifting and fine adjustments.
Most commonly used in industrial and maintenance settings, these tools support the accurate placement of heavy items. Their durable construction and simple operation make them reliable for controlled handling, reducing effort while improving positioning accuracy and safety.
Forklift Attachments
Forklift attachments are accessories designed to extend the functionality of forklifts, making them more versatile for a range of handling tasks that aren’t lifting and moving pallets. These attachments allow businesses to adapt their equipment without investing in additional machinery, offering a cost-effective way to increase operational capability. Common in warehouses, logistics and industrial environments.
Examples include drum clamps, lifting hooks, fork extensions and rotators, each tailored to specific applications. With the right attachment, a standard forklift can perform specialised tasks, enhancing productivity and flexibility in daily operations.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Selecting the right material handling equipment starts with understanding your load requirements and the different types of material handling equipment available. Consider the weight, size and shape of the items you need to move, as this directly influences which types of material handling equipment will best suit your operation.
Next, evaluate the working environment. Whether you’re operating indoors, outdoors or in marine conditions will determine the durability and materials needed, as well as which piece of equipment is most appropriate.
Frequency of use is another key factor when choosing between types of material handling equipment. Equipment used daily should be heavy-duty and highly durable, while occasional use may justify more cost-effective options. Always ensure that any equipment selected complies with relevant safety regulations and industry standards to protect both operators and goods.
Finally, balance your budget with long-term return on investment. While some types of material handling equipment may have a higher upfront cost, they will typically have reduced maintenance and replacement expenses over time. For expert advice on what will work best for you, get in touch with LES today by calling 01384 567430 or by emailing info@liftingequipmentstore.com.
