What types of tail lifts are there and how do they differ?

A tail lift is a modern piece of equipment installed on cars and trailers and designed for loading and unloading. Such equipment differs in design and functionality, specific models of devices are selected for specific vehicles. In this article, we will analyze what types of tail lifts there are and how they differ.

What types of tail lifts exist and how do they differ?

Folding tail lift

One of the most popular models used in cargo transportation. It has a simple design: the platform when folded is located vertically along the rear door and does not take up extra space in the body. This is a universal option for commerce and courier delivery services, such installations are used on medium-tonnage trucks.

  • Advantages - compactness when folded, which ensures ease of use. Suitable for working with any type of cargo.

Stationary tail lift

These are specialized installations, they are placed on certain vehicles, for example: vehicles for the delivery of building materials or warehouse equipment. Such a platform has a fixed position and does not fold, it works only in one plane: lifting and lowering.

  • Advantages - reliable design, easy to operate and breaks down less often. Suitable for heavy and large-sized loads weighing up to 5 tons.
  • Disadvantages - limited maneuverability, the platform does not fold, which is inconvenient when working in a confined space.

Lifting and sliding tail lift

A universal model, equipped with a mechanism that not only lifts the platform, but also extends it back for more convenient loading. It extends from under the cargo compartment, which is quite convenient in cramped conditions. Control is carried out using the remote control.

  • Advantages - suitable for loading in places with limited parking and in a confined space.
  • Disadvantages - a complex design, the repair of which will cost more. As a rule, the cost of spare parts is higher.

With an inclined platform

Structurally designed not only for lifting and lowering, but also for tilting. Convenient control allows you to set the platform at a certain angle. This makes it easier to work with wheeled loads, such as boxes or containers.

  • Advantages - suitable for working with mobile loads, you can roll carts into the body or unload them. If you have it, you can transport non-standard items.
  • Disadvantages - more difficult to control, not suitable for all loads, if the angle of inclination is set incorrectly, the item may fall.

Sliding tail lift

The platform of such models can slide or expand in width, it can be adjusted to a specific type of cargo. This function is provided by a special mechanism, and the platform consists of several sections. Suitable for companies that work with different types of products and with packaging in large-sized containers or boxes.

  • Advantages - versatility, the equipment is suitable for working with products of different formats.
  • Disadvantages - higher price, more expensive to maintain due to the complexity of the design.

Trailer tail lift

This is a separate category of tail lifts that are mounted on cargo trailers. They have a higher load capacity and can be installed on long-haul trucks of large tonnage, intended for long-distance transportation.

  • Advantages – can handle large volumes of cargo.
  • Disadvantages – more cumbersome, an open area for maneuvering is required to work with them.

Features of selection

To choose the right tail lift, it is important to consider the type of cargo. They also look at the operating mode: in cramped conditions, a lifting and sliding mechanism will be required, and for open areas, a classic stationary one will be enough. They also take into account such parameters as load capacity, installation features, control and other features.