Moving heavy goods between workstations is a daily challenge in warehouses, production facilities, and logistics environments. If handled improperly, it can lead to back pain, fatigue, and, in the worst case, workplace accidents. With the right approach, the appropriate equipment, and a well-planned work organization, internal transport becomes more efficient, safer, and less physically demanding for your employees.
In this guide, you'll learn, step by step, how to safely move heavy goods between workstations—from the initial analysis of your work environment to the maintenance of your material-handling equipment.
Assess the work situation before you begin
Before selecting material-handling equipment or determining a transport route, you need to have a clear understanding of the work situation. A thorough analysis beforehand will prevent you from investing in a solution that does not meet the actual needs on the shop floor.
As you conduct this analysis, ask yourself the following questions and write down specific answers:
- What are the weight and dimensions of the goods that need to be moved?
- Over what distance and at what altitude are they transported?
- How often does the movement occur: once, daily, or continuously?
- What types of floor surfaces, thresholds, or changes in elevation are present along the route?
- How many employees are available, and what is their physical capacity?
- Are there specific types of goods, such as pallets, rolls, barrels, or sheets?
After conducting this assessment, check whether your current procedures comply with Belgian occupational safety regulations regarding the manual handling of loads. Once you have a complete overview of the situation, you’ll be ready to choose the right equipment.
Choose the right material-handling equipment for the job
Choosing the right material-handling equipment is crucial for both the safety and efficiency of internal transportation. Not every situation calls for the same solution: moving a pallet requires different equipment than lifting a glass sheet or a heavy barrel.
Base your choice on the results of the workplace analysis. Here are some commonly used categories of material-handling equipment and their applications:
- Pallet trucks (electric or manual): ideal for moving pallets horizontally over longer distances on flat floors.
- Mobile lifts: suitable for vertically lifting goods at various locations without a fixed infrastructure.
- Vacuum lifters: ideal for smooth, non-porous materials such as sheets, glass, or cardboard boxes.
- Electric tugs: provide assistance in pulling or pushing heavy loads over longer distances.
- Pallet turners: useful when goods need to be reoriented between workstations.
Always compare the technical specifications of the equipment with the maximum load capacity and dimensions of your goods. Also check whether the equipment fits within the available space at your workstations and in the aisles. Once the right equipment has been selected, the next step is to adjust the route and the workstations themselves.
Adjust the transport route and the workstation
Even the best material-handling equipment will underperform on a poorly designed transport route. Optimize the physical environment so that the equipment can be used smoothly and safely.
- Remove obstacles and ensure a clear path along the entire transport route between the workstations.
- Check to make sure the floor is level and free of damage. Thresholds or uneven surfaces can be dangerous when handling heavy loads.
- Clearly mark the traffic lanes with floor markings to keep pedestrians and vehicles separate.
- Adjust the work height at the workstations: ensure that goods are presented at an ergonomically appropriate height so that bending and reaching are kept to a minimum.
- Ensure there is adequate ventilation and lighting along the route and at the workstations.
After making the adjustments, check whether the route is actually easy to navigate with the selected equipment. Walk the entire route at least once before carrying out the move. A well-prepared environment significantly reduces the risk of incidents and increases work speed.
Perform the move safely and ergonomically
With the route and equipment ready, it’s time for the actual move. Ergonomic solutions are only effective when used correctly. Incorrect use of even high-quality equipment can still lead to injuries or damage to the goods.
- Before use, check that the equipment is in good condition: no damage, proper tire pressure on self-propelled equipment, and functioning brakes and safety devices.
- Make sure the load is stable and properly positioned on or in the equipment before you begin driving or lifting.
- Never lift loads higher than necessary for transport; keep the load as low as possible while driving to maintain a stable center of gravity.
- Drive calmly and carefully, especially when turning and in areas where other employees are present.
- Communicate clearly with colleagues along the route, especially when visibility is limited or passageways are narrow.
Avoid improvising when the situation deviates from the plan, such as when encountering an unexpected obstacle or a load that is packed differently than expected. Stop, reconsider your approach, and adjust your method. After moving the goods, place them on a stable, level surface at their destination and return the equipment to its designated location.
Maintain the equipment to ensure ongoing safety
Material-handling equipment that is regularly used to move heavy goods is subject to wear and tear and requires periodic maintenance. Neglected equipment is not only less efficient, but also poses a safety risk to both users and the goods.
Develop a maintenance plan that includes at least the following elements:
- Daily visual inspection: Check for visible damage, leaks, or loose parts before the first use of the day.
- Periodic technical inspection: Have the equipment inspected at regular intervals by a certified technician, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
- Lubrication and cleaning: Keep moving parts lubricated and regularly remove dirt and dust that could interfere with operation.
- Defect Logging: Record every identified problem and follow up to ensure it has been repaired before the equipment is put back into service.
After each maintenance check, verify that the equipment is functioning properly by performing a brief test movement without a load. If in doubt, consult the service department or the supplier. A well-maintained piece of equipment not only ensures safety but also significantly extends the service life of your investment.
How Logitrans Handling Helps Move Heavy Goods
Logitrans Handling guides companies through every step—from analysis to implementation—in optimizing internal transportation and the ergonomic handling of heavy goods between workstations. Our approach is practical and fully tailored to your situation:
- Free workstation analysis: Our specialists will assess your work environment and identify ergonomic issues on the shop floor.
- Wide range of products: from pallet trucks and vacuum lifters to mobile lifters and electric tow tractors, for every application and every type of cargo.
- Demonstration room in Drongen: Test the equipment with your own materials before you make a decision, so you can be sure you’re making the right choice.
- Maintenance Contracts: for preventive and proactive maintenance to ensure your equipment is always in top condition and safety is maintained.
- Training upon delivery: Your employees will learn how to use the equipment correctly and safely from day one.
Would you like to know which ergonomic solution best suits your situation? Contact us, and we’ll work with you to discuss the options for your workstations.
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