What is the primary characteristic of a pallet truck?

The primary characteristic of a pallet truck is that it employs hydraulic systems for lifting. This feature allows the truck to efficiently lift and transport pallets by using a hydraulic mechanism, which is fundamental to its operation. The hydraulic system leverages fluid power to facilitate lifting heavy loads with minimal manual effort, making it an essential tool in warehouses and material handling operations.

While pallet trucks are commonly used to move pallets, the presence of hydraulic systems is what distinctly defines their functionality. These systems provide the necessary lifting capacity while also offering a degree of ease of use, which can be a significant advantage in busy environments.

The other options, though they mention aspects related to pallet trucks, do not encompass the defining characteristic as accurately. Not all pallet trucks are electric; many are manually operated. While they are designed primarily for handling pallets, their capabilities can extend beyond this, particularly in terms of lifting and transporting various types of loads. Lastly, pallet trucks are not exclusively designed for heavy loads, since they can also be found in lighter applications, with variations available to handle different weight capacities.