Need a hand with the heavy lifting? In the world of commercial trucking, efficiency is king. Whether you're hauling groceries, construction materials, or anything in between, time is money. That's where liftgates for trailers come in – they're game-changers for streamlining deliveries and keeping your business running smoothly. Choosing the right liftgate can make all the difference in productivity, so you'll want to make sure you are considering everything when renting trailers with liftgate options.
Before deciding on which liftgate to choose for the job, it’s a good idea to consider which trailer types you will need. Most commercial rental fleets usually employ a combination of different ones. Liftgates for commercial trailers will generally need to be specific to the type of trailer it’s being installed on.
Let's break down some popular trailer and lift gate combinations:
Reefer trailers are a common sight on highways across America. Responsible for keeping our grocery stores' shelves stocked with fresh produce and frozen goods, these trailers often require liftgates for deliveries. A slider liftgate, for instance, works well for moving pallets of goods from reefer trailers to loading docks with speed.
While similar to the column liftgate in design, they add additional articulation via a sliding platform. This makes navigating tight spaces, like loading docks, a little easier.
Dry van trailers handle much of the transport of non-perishable goods. You’ll see them moving items such as packaged foods, electronics, and clothing. Liftgate preference for a dry van depends on several factors, including the type of product, frequency of deliveries that won’t be made to a loading dock, and budget.
When most picture a box truck with a liftgate, they envision something along the lines of a moving truck with a liftgate mounted on the rear. This is because box trucks, being smaller than semi-trailers, are mostly used when hauling locally. They are many times used for deliveries requiring the driver to load and unload.
Liftgates on box trucks are generally more straightforward, frequently using a column liftgate. Column liftgates provide the advantage of a smaller footprint and easier installation. Column liftgates are offered in a variety of weight capacities by several manufacturers.
Now that we’ve taken a look at some lift gates paired with their trailer counterparts, let's explore the various types of liftgates for trailers you'll encounter:
Choosing a liftgate goes beyond simply picking a type. This is because you need to make sure it aligns with your operational needs. Here are several key questions to consider:
It’s fairly apparent that liftgates come with weight limits. You don't want to overload it and create safety risks for your driver, or anyone around the trailer. Make sure to choose a liftgate with an appropriate lifting capacity.
A lift gate perfect for a busy urban area might not be suited for rural locations with limited access. Think about tight loading docks or uneven terrain that might require specialized features. Will you need a liftgate with a platform drop-down function for lower loading heights?
Much like any piece of equipment, regular maintenance is vital to its longevity. For businesses that rent out idle trailers to earn revenue on the COOP platform, we always recommend making sure to stay on top of things by creating a preventive maintenance schedule, including things like visual inspections of the liftgate’s components. Check the hydraulic system for leaks, inspect the platform for wear and tear, and ensure all safety features are functioning correctly.
Always prioritize safety by training employees on how to safely operate and load/unload the liftgate. Providing proper training on liftgate operation can prevent accidents and injuries.
Liftgates are hydraulic platforms mounted on the back of trailers, allowing for easy loading and unloading of goods. They are essential for improving efficiency, reducing manual labor, and speeding up delivery times, especially in industries where time and productivity are critical.
There are several types of liftgates, each suited to different trailer types and operational needs. The main types include:
TuckUnder liftgates mount under the trailer, providing increased ground clearance and not interfering with rear doors. They are ideal for dry vans, frequent deliveries, and situations where ground clearance is crucial. However, they tend to be the most expensive option and require higher maintenance.
Liftgates need to be specific to the type of trailer they are installed on. While some liftgates are versatile, it's important to ensure compatibility with your trailer type for optimal performance and safety. Common trailer types include box trucks, reefer trailers, and dry van trailers.
Safety should always be a priority when using liftgates. Ensure employees are properly trained on how to operate, load, and unload the liftgate safely. Regular maintenance checks and adherence to weight limits are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring safe operation.
Carefully evaluate your typical cargo weight, delivery locations, and trailer type before choosing a liftgate. Consult with liftgate suppliers to discuss your specific needs and get recommendations on the best liftgate options for your business.
Liftgates for commercial trailers can dramatically improve efficiency, productivity, and safety, making life a whole lot easier for both drivers and companies alike. By renting equipment with investing in the right liftgate and prioritizing efficiency, businesses can optimize their transportation operations for success.
With the experienced team at COOP by your side, you have more options to drive your business forward with quick turnaround on short-term or long-term trailer rentals nationwide. Request a personalized rental quote to find liftgate trailers that fit your schedule and budget.
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