Definition
The opening in a pallet through which forklift or pallet jack forks are inserted for lifting and moving the pallet. Fork entry dimensions (height and width) must accommodate standard fork sizes while providing enough clearance for smooth insertion. Pallets may have two-way entry (forks enter from two sides) or four-way entry (forks enter from all four sides). Adequate fork entry clearance is essential for safe and efficient material handling.
Related Terms
Four-Way Entry
A pallet design that allows forklift forks or pallet jack forks to enter from all four sides. True four-way entry is achieved through block pallet construction, where blocks replace continuous stringers, creating openings on all four sides. Some stringer pallets offer partial four-way entry through notched stringers, which allow fork entry on the stringer sides. Four-way entry pallets are preferred for tight warehouse spaces and automated handling systems.
Two-Way Entry
A pallet design that allows forklift or pallet jack forks to enter from only two opposite sides, typically the sides perpendicular to the stringers. Two-way entry is characteristic of stringer pallets without notched stringers. While less versatile than four-way entry pallets, two-way entry designs are simpler and less expensive to manufacture and can be sufficient for applications where pallets are always oriented the same way.
Pallet Jack
A wheeled tool used to lift and move pallets within a warehouse or loading dock. Manual pallet jacks use a hydraulic pump activated by pumping the handle, while electric (powered) pallet jacks use battery-powered motors for lifting and sometimes propulsion. Pallet jacks insert their forks into the openings between the top and bottom deck boards of a pallet. They are essential material handling equipment in virtually every warehouse and distribution facility.
Fork Pocket
A reinforced opening or channel in a pallet or container specifically designed to receive forklift forks. Fork pockets provide guided entry and distribute the fork load across a larger area than open-bottom pallets. They are common in heavy-duty plastic pallets and metal containers where precise fork positioning is critical. Fork pockets improve handling safety by preventing forks from sliding through or damaging the load.
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