To begin, let’s discuss what a lift table actually is. A lift table is a platform operated by a scissor mechanism to raise and lower the platform to the necessary height. Lift tables are a versatile piece of equipment that can be used in many different settings throughout the warehouse. While there are a variety of lift tables, all have four basic parts- base, legs or scissors, platform, and power. Let’s dive in and talk about the benefits of lift tables before helping you to understand which type of lift table might be the best for your warehouse.

Benefits of Lift Tables

Health Benefits for Warehouse Employees

Lift tables can offer health benefits for warehouse employees due to their ergonomic nature. Lift tables allow workers to operate at any height instead of having to bend over or reach equipment. Lift tables meet warehouse employees where they are at and provide convenient, additional work space. Lift tables help prevent ergonomic injuries from forceful exertions, repeated motions, and awkward postures. Lift tables are designed to carry heavy loads that would put an employee at risk of injury if they tried to perform the move themselves. 

Increased Warehouse Efficiency & Productivity

Lift tables reduce the strain on employees and create a more efficient and productive warehouse. Employees can more easily perform their job without spending extra time trying to lift a load or having to constantly move from two different locations in the warehouse to get a job done. Lift tables also create additional workspace and help move items off the ground and out of the flow of the warehouse. Lift tables are typically very durable and have the potential to outlast other warehouse equipment when used properly. They can endure harsh conditions and years of use.

Lift Table Power Options

Lift tables have several options when it comes to how they are actually operated. Some common forms include hydraulic, electrical, chain, and belt. The most common is hydraulic. How you plan to use your lift table will direct you in determining which power is best.

Different Types of Lift Tables

Let's go over the different types of lift tables that are most commonly bought and sold. We will go over 6 different types. Each type has been created to solve a specific pain that is commonly seen in a warehousing environment. Make sure you identify your pain points and carefully decide which table will help you solve it. 

Lift & Tilt Table

This table is pretty self-explanatory. Lift & tilt tables include all the benefits of a lift table, with the additional function of being able to tilt and angle the table surface to your need. These tables can tilt between 45 to 90 degrees.  

Heavy-duty Lift Tables

Heavy duty lift tables are sturdier and have the ability to lift larger loads. Both the scissors below and the table provide maximum strength. If you are considering purchasing a lift table to help with large loads, definitely consider a heavy duty lift table. 

One common use for these is to make it easier to pick items out of box as you can tilt the top towards you. This makes it easier to reach in and stock the inventory item. 

Tandem lift tables

Tandem lift tables utilize two scissors, located parallel to one another. These provide a wider table surface area than standard lift tables. In additiona they more evenly distributed support for the load across a wider surface. If you have a larger area of your warehouse that can accommodate the larger table, this is a great option to provide more table space.

Multi-Stage Lift Tables

Multi-stage lift tables are a design with multiple scissors that allows you to reach both higher profile heights. Double, triple, and quadruple table lifts are a few of the more common types. A double contains two scissor mechanisms below, triple has three, and quadruple four. These tables are excellent choices in areas of the warehouse where you need to reach higher levels of the warehouse but don't have much room on the floor.

Portable Lift-Tables

Portable lift tables are convenient in many aspects of the warehouse. Choose between lightweight and heavyweight designs, depending on the need in the warehouse. Lightweight lift tables can be easily maneuvered and come with battery operated or manual operated abilities. More heavyweight designs are useful for larger loads, but are more difficult to relocate than their lightweight counterpart.

 Be sure to double check their capacities before purchasing to ensure that you aren’t buying a heavyweight designed lift table when you actually just needed the lightweight version.

Rotating Lift Tables

Rotating lift tables are convenient for repositioning loads and equipment. The built in carrosell allows for the easy rotation of pallets and other items when needed. Many lift tables can be repositioned easily by the operator as the items rotate around. These lift tables help prevent workers from reaching and placing strain on their back, neck, and arms.

Conclusion

As we explained in this article, adding a lift table to your warehouse operation can increase warehouse and worker safety as well as increase productivity and efficiency. If you are considering adding a lift table to your warehouse, contact our team at Hoj Innovations. Our team of professionals has years of experience helping individuals and companies worldwide. So whether you need questions answered or you're ready to buy, we can provide expert advice and exceptional service at any point in your journey.