UNITED KINGDOM / AGILITYPR.NEWS / December 17, 2025 / With micro-fulfilment centres reshaping UK logistics, Pallet Trucks UK is urging businesses to reassess the suitability of their manual handling equipment for increasingly compact, high-density warehouse environments. With urban fulfilment sites growing rapidly to meet the rising demand for same-day delivery, convenience-led retail and tighter last-mile networks, traditional pallet truck specifications are not always fit for purpose in these tighter, more complex spaces.

Micro-fulfilment centres often operate within former retail units, small industrial lots or repurposed urban buildings. These environments typically feature narrow aisles, restricted turning circles, reduced ceiling heights and intensified foot traffic - placing new demands on pallet truck design and operator awareness. Smaller, more agile units with tighter steering are increasingly favoured, alongside equipment with ergonomic considerations that minimise strain during repetitive handling in confined spaces.

According to Pallet Trucks UK, the move towards compact warehouse footprints also brings fresh safety implications. Reduced visibility, higher congestion and faster operational tempo can introduce risks if equipment is bulky, poorly maintained or not suited to short-radius manoeuvring. Lowered handle heights, smoother rolling wheels and designs that minimise noise can help improve both safety and communication on busy warehouse floors.

Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, “Micro-fulfilment is one of the most significant evolutions happening in warehousing right now, but many businesses are still trying to run them with equipment better suited to large distribution centres. In smaller sites, operators need handling tools that are agile, predictable and easy to control in confined spaces. The wrong pallet truck can become a pinch point in an environment that is already working at speed.

“As urban fulfilment grows, we’re seeing rising demand for compact pallet trucks, low-profile models and ergonomically designed equipment that reduces repetitive strain. It’s not just about efficiency; it’s very much a safety issue too. The right equipment can reduce collisions, prevent injuries and create a far more manageable working space for teams who are often operating within just a few square metres.”

Pallet Trucks UK believes micro-fulfilment will continue to expand as retailers and logistics providers push closer to customers, and that choosing the correct manual handling equipment – such as high quality pallet trucks, stackers and lift tables – can reduce operational friction and downtime as sites scale.

For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk.