Semi Trailer Lift Gate Options and Applications for You

Semi trailer lift gates come in a variety of options to suit different applications and needs.

A hydraulic lift gate is a popular choice for semi trailers, offering a smooth and reliable lifting motion. It's often used for heavy-duty applications and can handle loads up to 10,000 pounds.

For lighter loads, an electric lift gate is a more suitable option, providing a quiet and efficient operation. These gates are often used for applications where noise is a concern.

Manual lift gates are another option, requiring manual effort to lift and lower the gate. They're often used for smaller loads and in areas with limited power supply.

Semi trailer lift gates are an essential component for heavy cargo transportation, but before you can use one, you need to understand its limitations. A slider style liftgate can be installed on a trailer, but it depends on the trailer's specifications and the state's transportation requirements.

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There are minimum clearances and distance requirements from the rear axle to the rear of the trailer that must be met. These clearances can vary depending on the liftgate model, platform size, and mounting style. Some states have specific axle position mandates based on load weight, which can be a challenge for truck drivers crossing state lines.

There's a solution for trailers that need to meet varying specifications: the Sliding Tandem Assembly. This system allows the axles to be repositioned along the trailer's frame, helping to balance weight distribution according to each state's requirements.

Here are the four common types of liftgates:

A trailer is a type of vehicle designed for hauling heavy goods and equipment, typically towed by a commercial tractor.

Trailer lift gates are specifically designed for trailers that haul heavy goods, not for personal vehicles like lawn mowers or dirt bikes.

These trailers are used by companies like Sysco, Amazon, or a beverage distributor to transport large quantities of goods.

The trailer itself is a critical component of the transportation process, and the lift gate is an essential tool for loading and unloading cargo.

In commercial and industrial settings, trailers are used to transport heavy goods, making the trailer lift gate a vital piece of equipment.

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There are four common types of liftgates, each with its own pros and cons. They are:

Tuck-under liftgates stay out of the way until they are needed, tucking under and away from the cargo entrance.

Rail liftgates stow flat against the rear of the truck or trailer body when not in use, but can cover part of the rear doorway.

Cantilever liftgates offer exceptionally large platforms, with design options compatible with carts and pallets.

Most cantilever liftgates come with foot controls to power them up or down.

The semi trailer lift gate is designed to handle heavy-duty applications, coming loaded with features like hydraulic power down, three-piece DOT rear impact guard, and dual spring-loaded cart stops.

These features ensure safe and efficient operation, making it a reliable choice for demanding tasks. The PTF also includes a toggle switch with complimentary two-button hand-held controls and dual hydraulic cylinder locks for added security.

Some semi trailer lift gates have options like multiple control switch options, available for 96" or 102" wide body applications, and platform cart stops or retention plates.

The PTF comes loaded with features for the heavy-duty application. Hydraulic power down is a standard feature, making it easier to operate the liftgate.

A three-piece DOT rear impact guard is also included, providing added protection for the trailer. Dual spring-loaded cart stops help keep carts and equipment in place.

A toggle switch with complimentary two-button hand-held controls is also a standard feature, giving you flexibility in how you operate the liftgate. Dual hydraulic cylinder locks provide added security.

Some of the standard features of the PTF include:

Our liftgate's steel components are protected with a special coating that's a result of an 8-step hot dip galvanizing process.

This process is specifically designed to withstand hard use, and it's a key factor in ensuring the liftgate's durability.

The hot dip galvanizing process is a tried and true method that's been used for years to protect steel from corrosion.

Calculating the weight load of a semi-trailer liftgate is crucial to ensure it can handle the weight of the goods, equipment, and driver. This includes factoring in the weight of the product, the equipment used to move it, and the weight of the driver.

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The weight of the equipment used to move the product can add 100 to 1,000 pounds to the total weight load. For example, an electric pallet jack alone can weigh 1,000 pounds or more.

You must calculate the weight of everything that will be on the liftgate, including the driver, the jack, and the pallet. This is essential to avoid overloading the gate and ensure it is rated to handle the extra weight.

It's also essential to consider the type of trailer you have, as some may not be suitable for certain types of liftgates. For example, trailers with aluminum vertical uprights may not be able to support the weight of a rail gate or column lift.

Installing a liftgate on a trailer can be a bit tricky, but it's definitely doable. Unfortunately, the short answer is no, you can't always install a liftgate on a trailer.

It all comes down to the framing of the trailer, not the body. Most trailers have a center-framed, crossmember-reinforced body, but some have aluminum vertical uprights that can't support the weight of a rail or column liftgate.

Rail and column liftgates require steel vertical uprights to weld the rails or rail mounts, which isn't possible with aluminum uprights. And if you have a curtain body trailer, forget about it - there are no uprights to speak of.

If you're looking to install a cantilever, tuck-under, or slide-under liftgate, you'll need a steel trailer frame to mount the gate's mounting system. And if you have barn doors for a rear door, you're out of luck - the doors and hinges would hit the rails, preventing the doors from opening.

Some specialty bodies, like tool trucks and curtain bodies, may require specialty gates, but these can be expensive and time-consuming to install. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to redesign the body altogether.

The installation price will vary case by case, and every modification needed for the install will add to the price. So, it's essential to consult with your team before purchasing the liftgate to get an accurate quote.

Most trailers can accommodate a slider style liftgate, but there are some conditions to meet. You'll need to check the minimum clearances and distance from the rear axle to the rear of the trailer, which can vary depending on the gate model and mounting style.

Some states have specific mandates for axle position based on the load weight of the trailer, so you'll need to check the local regulations. But don't worry, there's a solution - you can use a Sliding Tandem Assembly to reposition the axles and meet the requirements.

Loaded trucks sit lower to the ground, while unloaded trucks sit higher off the ground. This difference in height is crucial when selecting a liftgate.

Every truck model has its own laden and unladen height dimensions based on its body specifications. This information is essential for determining the minimum clearance requirements for a liftgate.

To properly specify a liftgate, you need to know the highest point of the truck when it's unladen. This is the maximum height the liftgate needs to be able to reach.

Selecting a liftgate based on laden height could result in a liftgate that doesn't reach the ground. It's equally important to consider truck height when it's fully laden, or at its lowest point.

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The installation process for a semi trailer lift gate can vary in price, depending on the specific needs of your operation. Every modification required for the install will add to the cost.

The installation price will differ from case to case, so it's essential to consult with your installation team before purchasing the lift gate to get an accurate quote.

Lift gate service is a game-changer for shippers without a traditional loading dock or forklift. This service is especially useful for businesses with frequent deliveries, bulky or heavy cargo, limited manpower, and improved accessibility needs.

The cost of lift gate service varies by carrier and market, typically ranging from $50 to $150. Sometimes it can be more or less.

A lift gate is a device that helps load and unload heavy goods from a trailer, reducing physical strain on employees and increasing productivity. It's a must-have for businesses making frequent deliveries, especially in urban settings where loading docks are scarce.

Here are some common places where a lift gate is needed:

The service charge for lift gate service is usually separate from the freight cost, and you may need to pay an additional fee for limited access locations.

Installation price can vary greatly depending on the specific installation needs of your business.

The process of installing a trailer liftgate is case-specific, so it's hard to give a precise estimate without knowing the details of your situation.

Every modification needed for the install will add to the price, so it's essential to consult with the installation team before purchasing the liftgate.

The best thing to do is consult your team who will perform the install prior to purchasing the liftgate.

When considering a semi trailer lift gate, it's essential to think about the application and the type of cargo it will handle. The liftgate's performance depends on the weight and size of the cargo, as well as the height and width of the trailer.

The type of cargo will affect the liftgate's specification, with some liftgates better suited for specific applications. For example, Maxon Lift designed the BMR Columnlift for heavy-duty applications with loads up to 6,600 pounds. This shows that the liftgate's capacity should match the cargo's weight.

Some common features and accessories for trailer liftgates include multiple control switch options, platform cart stops, and multiple charging options. These features can enhance the liftgate's performance and make it more versatile.

Considering the application is crucial when it comes to selecting the right liftgate. The type of cargo, its weight, and size will greatly impact the choice of liftgate. For instance, if you're handling heavy-duty applications with loads up to 6,600 pounds, a liftgate like the BMR Columnlift designed by Maxon Lift is a good option.

The application will also determine the type of liftgate needed. If the cargo is tall or top-heavy, a level-ride liftgate is necessary to prevent it from tipping over. This is especially important for businesses that handle a variety of products.

The weight and size of the cargo are key factors to consider. For example, if you're moving plants, you'll need a liftgate that can handle the weight and size of the plants. Similarly, if you're handling groceries, a liftgate that can handle the weight and size of the boxes is necessary.

Here are some examples of applications and the type of liftgate that may be suitable:

Ultimately, the choice of liftgate will depend on the specific needs of your business. By considering the application and the type of cargo you'll be handling, you can select the right liftgate to ensure safe and efficient operations.

We've heard your requests and brought them to life with the PTF liftgate. It's the perfect complement to a truck or trailer for your heavy-duty needs.

The PTF liftgate is designed for heavy-duty applications, and it's available in two models: 50 and 55.

This liftgate takes PALFINGER's proven design to the next level, offering a reliable solution for your heavy-duty needs.

The PTF liftgate is a game-changer for anyone who needs a heavy-duty liftgate solution.

Calculating weight is crucial when it comes to choosing a liftgate. A truck delivering 2,000 to 3,000 pounds of goods will not require a liftgate with a 6,000-pound capacity.

You need to factor in product weight, equipment weight, and driver weight when calculating loads. Many drivers will jump on the liftgate, adding 200 pounds or more to the weight.

Pallet jacks, dollies, or carts can increase capacity weights by 100 to 1,000 pounds. An electric pallet jack alone might weigh 1,000 pounds or more.

Liftgate weight capacity can range from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the type of liftgate and truck size. A good guideline to follow is 2,500 pounds, which is common among LTL carriers.

Most common LTL carriers have lift gates capable of handling 2,500 pounds, which can be correlated to pallet capacities that max out between 2,000 and 2,500 pounds.

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Installation costs can vary greatly depending on the specific requirements of your semi trailer lift gate.

The price will increase with each modification needed for the install, so it's essential to consult with your installation team before purchasing the lift gate.

Every installation is unique, and the cost will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Keep in mind that the installation process will vary, and the price will reflect the specific needs of your operation.

The best course of action is to consult with your team who will perform the install prior to purchasing the lift gate.