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When you're lifting heavy loads day in and day out, the tool you pick can make or break your productivity — and sometimes your back. Choosing the right jack or lift truck isn't just about raw lifting power; it's about safety, longevity, and how well the equipment fits your workflow. Think of it like choosing a pair of work boots: size, comfort, and durability all matter, and the wrong choice slows you down and costs more in the long run.
There are a few go-to names in the UK for jacks and lift trucks, from specialist retailers to big trade suppliers. I like to split them into specialists, trade chains, and hire companies so you can decide whether to buy outright or test drive equipment first. Below you’ll find stores that stock a wide range of kit — both new and hire options — and where to go depending on whether you're a one-person workshop or a busy warehouse.
Expert Electrical is a great spot for specialist tools and measuring gear. If you need a precise pocket balance for quick checks, they list the CK Pocket Balance 66lb, which is handy when you need to verify small load weights in pounds before committing to larger equipment. They focus on smaller trade essentials, and their product selection is useful if your lifting tasks include frequent weighing or need compact tools.
Screwfix is a popular choice for tradespeople who want a balance of price and reliability. From hydraulic floor jacks rated at 2 tons (about 4,000 lb) to compact trolley jacks, they stock ranges that suit garages and DIYers. If you’re on a budget but still want tools that survive daily use, Screwfix is a solid first stop.
Toolstation and Machine Mart target professional users and offer heavier-duty kit. You’ll find 3-ton and 4-ton bottle jacks, heavier pallet trucks, and workshop gear built to withstand frequent use. These stores are ideal if you're fitting out a workshop or garage and need tools that cope with consistent, tough jobs.
Not sure if you want to buy yet? HSS Hire lets you rent hydraulic jacks, pallet trucks, and electric lift trucks by the day or week. Renting is a great way to test the exact capacity and type you need without the upfront cost. If you only need a lift truck for a particular project, it can also be cheaper than buying and storing the gear.
There’s a surprising variety of lifting equipment once you dig in, and each type is suited to different tasks. I find it helpful to group equipment by how they lift (hydraulic vs mechanical), how they move the load (manual vs powered), and where they’re used (garage, workshop, warehouse). That way you can match the tool to the job instead of forcing a mismatch.
Hydraulic floor jacks are a staple for garages and workshops. They typically come in capacities from 1 ton (2,000 lb) to 4 tons (8,000 lb) and give quick, smooth lifts with a low profile for sliding under vehicles or machinery. Look for wide saddles, reinforced wheels, and a low minimum height in inches so you can get under low-clearance equipment. They’re the go-to when you need speed and stability for regular lifting.
Bottle jacks pack a lot of capacity into a small footprint and are often used when vertical space is not an issue. They commonly range from 2 tons (4,000 lb) up to 50 tons (100,000 lb) for heavy industry. If you need raw lifting force in tight horizontal spaces, a bottle jack is a reliable choice, but remember they’re tall and need a solid base — not ideal for low-profile jobs.
Pallet trucks are workhorses for moving palletised loads across flat warehouse floors. Manual pallet trucks usually handle between 2,200 lb (1.1 tons) and 5,500 lb (2.75 tons). They’re simple to use and cheap to buy, so small businesses often start here. If you’re shifting pallets daily, prioritize smooth steering, a strong pump, and forks that match common pallet sizes in feet and inches.
Electric pallet trucks and small electric lift trucks replace manual effort with speed and consistency. These are ideal for larger warehouses where operators cover long distances and move heavy loads repeatedly. Look for units with lithium batteries for longer run times and easy charging, and check maximum lift heights in inches if you need stacking capability.
Small scales like the CK Pocket Balance 66lb, mentioned in supplier listings, might seem trivial compared to a forklift, but they’re invaluable for quick checks and compliance. Whether you’re verifying parcel weights for dispatch or checking a small load before palletising, a 66 lb pocket balance gives immediate peace of mind. Think of it as a weight-spot check that prevents overloading larger equipment.
Capacity is the single most important factor. Always calculate the maximum weight you’ll lift and then add a safety margin. For example, if your heaviest load is 3,000 lb, choose a 2-ton jack? No — that would be risky. Instead, pick at least a 2-ton (4,000 lb) but preferably a 3-ton (6,000 lb) jack for a comfortable safety margin. For pallet trucks, match your most common pallet load in pounds, and for lift trucks, consider both load and centre-of-gravity distances when choosing tonnage.
Safety isn’t glamorous, but it’s non-negotiable. Regular checks — visual inspection for leaks, testing the lowering valve, and ensuring wheel bearings roll smoothly — keep equipment working and people safe. Keep records of load tests in pounds, and always replace parts like seals and hoses at the first sign of wear. Think of maintenance like brushing your teeth: quick daily habits prevent expensive problems later.
Small extras can transform a lifting setup. Consider padded saddle caps for delicate loads, extension forks for oversized pallets measured in feet, and hydraulic ramps for loading vehicles. If you’re using a pallet truck often, invest in a scale attachment to read load weight in pounds on the fly. These add-ons pay back through faster, safer work and fewer damaged goods.
Prices vary widely depending on capacity, brand, and whether the item is manual or electric. A basic 2-ton floor jack might cost under £50 in stores, while a quality 4-ton professional jack could be several hundred pounds. Electric pallet trucks and small lift trucks move into the thousands. To get value, align budget with expected frequency of use: spend more for daily, heavy-duty use and look at hire options if the need is occasional.
Always check warranties and certifications. Look for CE markings, declared maximum load in pounds, and, for powered equipment, battery specs in amp-hours. A solid warranty can be worth extra up-front cost, and certified equipment reduces risk when you’re tested for workplace safety compliance. Warranties often vary from months to years depending on the item and the store you buy from.
Renting makes sense for one-off jobs or when you need to trial a tool. Buying is better for ongoing daily use. If your work is seasonal, consider long-term rental agreements or subscription models that include maintenance. For persistent needs — say a busy workshop — buying quality equipment usually saves money over several months compared with repeat hire fees.
Most well-established suppliers and hire companies offer demos or technical advice if you ask. If you’re unsure, schedule a demo with a hire company or ask a specialist retail shop for a quick walkthrough. I always recommend trying a piece of kit under real conditions where possible — it’s the best way to know if the saddle height, fork length, or steering feel suits your team.
Two trends I see everywhere are electrification and measurement integration. Electric pallet trucks are getting lighter and more efficient, while small scales and in-line weighing systems allow operators to see load weight in pounds instantly. These trends reduce manual strain and improve traceability, which is especially handy when meeting safety audits or tracking freight costs.
Durable equipment is greener by default. Look for metal-bodied jacks and trucks with serviceable parts rather than plastic-laden throwaway models. Buying from suppliers that offer spare parts and repair services will keep your kit out of landfill and lower lifecycle costs. And if a machine is mostly idle, consider renting instead of buying to reduce wasted capital.
Before you click “buy” or sign a hire agreement, run through a quick checklist: confirm maximum capacity in pounds, minimum and maximum lift height in inches, wheel type for your floor surface, warranty length, availability of spare parts, and whether the unit’s dimensions fit your workspace in feet and inches. This little checklist will save you time and money and prevent unpleasant surprises.
Conclusion: Picking the right jack or lift truck is about matching real-world needs to the right type and capacity. From pocket balances like the CK Pocket Balance 66lb to heavy-duty electric pallet trucks, the UK market has solutions for every user. Choose suppliers that offer the mix of price, support, and product lines that fit your volume of work, and don’t be shy about testing a hire unit first if you’re unsure. With the right gear, you’ll lift safely, work faster, and save money in the long run.
| Jacks & Lift Trucks | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Ck Pocket Balance 66lb | £ 9,36 |
