TUCK AWAY LIFT GATE VS THE RAIL LIFT GATE

So you’ve finally decided to get into the box truck delivery business and now it’s time to research the equipment needed to get the job accomplished. One very important decision is figuring out which type of lift gate will work best for your needs. With medium duty box trucks, the tuck away lift gate and the rail lift gate are most common. Let’s assess which lift is the correct tool for your application.

What is a lift gate exactly? A lift gate is a mechanism used to raise or lower goods to and from the rear deck of a box truck. Lift gates are powered by a hydraulic pump, cylinder and electric motor. These are constructed of either steel or aluminum and can range in size and weight capacities.

rail lift gateThose familiar with the rail lift gate either love it or hate it. Some delivery companies couldn’t function without these while others see the rail lift as a barrier to productivity. The key characteristic of a rail lift is that when not in use, the lifting platform is folded against the back of your cargo box truck. When put into service, the lift deck is then folded down into place where it travels straight up and down as it is being used.

rail lift gateFans of the rail lift gate will boast that its deck size affords more loading space than a tuck under lift gate. Also noted is that rail lift platforms remain as level as the truck it’s mounted to and is therefore the safer method of loading. When not in use and folded against the back door of your delivery truck, the rail gate also provides an element of security from thieves. Those who do not appreciate the rail lift gates’ characteristics however, will complain that the gate must be operated every time cargo is accessed. This can have a negative effect on the overall speed of daily delivery. Rail lift gates can also be an issue when attempting to load the cargo area by fork lift. Pallet jacks also have issue with the rail lift deck on account of its steep approach ramp.

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