Improving Safety and Efficiency Across Last-Mile Pallet Delivery
CHALLENGE
As pallet delivery volumes continued to grow, particularly within the residential and home delivery sector, Palletways needed to support drivers handling an increasing number of heavier tail-lift and kerbside deliveries.
Maintaining high standards of safety, efficiency and customer service remained a priority, creating the need for reliable handling equipment that could reduce manual effort and support drivers in challenging delivery environments.
The investment needed to:
- Reduce the physical demands of moving heavier palletised loads
- Improve driver safety and wellbeing
- Support efficient residential and restricted-access deliveries
- Replace ageing equipment with modern alternatives
SOLUTION
SHS Handling Solutions supplied a fleet of electric pallet trucks as part of Palletways’ wider investment programme across its owned operations in Birmingham, London and Edinburgh.
The new equipment was selected to help drivers safely lift, lower and move palletised goods with less physical effort compared to traditional manual pallet trucks.
Key benefits included:
- Battery-powered lifting and movement
- Improved load control and stability
- Reduced driver fatigue and physical strain
- Greater manoeuvrability in restricted delivery locations
- Safer handling during tail-lift and kerbside deliveries
RESULTS
The introduction of the electric pallet trucks has helped Palletways improve safety, efficiency and reliability across its pallet delivery operations.
Improved Driver Safety
By reducing the physical effort required to move heavier pallets, the equipment helps minimise strain and supports safer manual handling practices. Improved control and stability also give drivers greater confidence when completing deliveries in challenging environments.
Increased Operational Efficiency
The electric pallet trucks enable drivers to complete pallet movements more smoothly and efficiently, particularly during residential deliveries where space and access can be limited.
By replacing older equipment and increasing access to modern handling solutions, Palletways has strengthened its delivery capability and supported continued operational growth.
WHY SHS
This project highlights SHS Handling Solutions’ ability to provide practical materials handling solutions designed around the real challenges faced by logistics operators. By understanding the demands of last-mile pallet delivery, SHS supplied equipment that improves safety, reduces manual handling risks and supports operational efficiency.
Customer story: Palletways has also shared the investment and the impact of its new LIFTEK electric pallet trucks on its own website.
Read the Palletways article: New Electric Pump Trucks Support Safer Pallet Delivery on Palletways here.