What is meant by an Ameise (ant) in logistics?

The term “Ameise” (ant) colloquially refers to a pallet truck, usually an electric pedestrian low-lift pallet truck, which is used to move loads over short distances. The name originally comes from the Jungheinrich company, which developed the “Ameise 55” pallet truck in the 1950s. The term is still protected by trademark law today.

Design and function

• Forks: Two forks near the floor carry the load to be transported, often on pallets.
• Drive: Electric models have a battery-powered drive that facilitates movement in the warehouse.
• Control: The drive is controlled via a drawbar connected to the drive wheel.

Ameisen (ants) are mainly used in warehouse logistics and retail to move loads of up to 2.5 tons over short distances by hand.