Shenzhen Cadro Hydraulic Equipment Co.,Ltd
Views: 220 Author: cadrotaillift Publish Time: 2025-07-28 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Understanding Folding Tail Lifts
>> Types of Folding Tail Lifts
● Top Folding Tail Lift Models in 2025 for Flatbed and Pickup Trucks
>> Tommy Gate Tuckunder Series (TKT and TKL Models)
>> Railgate Series: Bi-Fold and High-Cycle Models
>> Niuli Hydraulic Folding Tail Lifts
>> Beauway Folding Q700 Series
>> Ledwell HydraTail Folding Hauling Solutions
● Essential Features to Look For in Folding Tail Lifts
>> Ease of Use and Maintenance
● Frequently Asked Questions About Folding Tail Lifts
>> 1. What weight capacities are typical for folding tail lifts on pickups?
>> 2. How do tuckunder folding tail lifts benefit flatbed trucks?
>> 3. Are aluminum folding tail lifts as durable as steel ones?
>> 4. What maintenance is required for hydraulic folding tail lifts?
>> 5. Can folding tail lifts be retrofitted to existing flatbed or pickup trucks?
In 2025, folding tail lifts have become essential equipment for flatbed and pickup truck owners who need efficient, reliable, and versatile solutions for loading and unloading heavy goods. These tail lifts combine cutting-edge engineering with practical design to improve worksite safety and productivity. This article explores the best folding tail lift models available in 2025 for flatbed and pickup trucks, focusing on their types, features, performance, and suitability for various applications.
Tail lifts, also known as liftgates, are mechanical devices attached to the rear of trucks to facilitate lifting cargo between ground level and truck bed height. Folding tail lifts stand out because their platforms fold compactly when not in use, saving space and enhancing transport convenience.
Folding tail lifts can be differentiated based on their mechanism and frame design:
- Parallel Arm Folding Lifts: Featuring hydraulic arms on each side of the platform, these lifts provide stable and balanced lifting ideal for pickup trucks and service vehicles. The arms fold alongside the platform, minimizing storage space.
- Railgate Bi-Fold Lifts: Characterized by large foldable steel or aluminum platforms that fold in the middle or sides, enabling greater loading capacity and dock compatibility.
- Tuckunder Folding Lifts: These tuck under the truck body when folded, providing a clean, low-profile look that does not interfere with rear access.
- Cantilever Folding Lifts: Mounted on one side, these lifts have folding platforms hinged to the truck, making them highly suitable for tight loading environments.
The market in 2025 offers several advanced models that meet diverse lifting needs and vehicle configurations. Below are some of the industry-leading models:
Tommy Gate's Tuckunder series remains a top choice for flatbed and pickup trucks, featuring folding platforms that stow neatly under the vehicle rear for unobstructed access. Key highlights include:
- Self-leveling and Power Down Functions: These make operation intuitive and increase safety when loading or unloading.
- Wide-arm, Dual-cylinder Hydraulic Design: Offers sturdy and consistent lifting, supporting payloads up to 2,500 lbs (approximately 1,134 kg).
- Steel and Aluminum Platform Options: For balance between strength and lightweight performance.
- Models like TP50 and EA60: Provide large platform sizes (up to 80" x 60") ideal for pallet-sized loads on flatbeds and heavier pickup truck bodies.
These lifts are highly durable and emphasize operator ease and reliability for repeated commercial use.
The Railgate Bi-Fold lifts combine large platforms with foldable sections that enhance versatility and dock-friendliness:
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Suitable for demanding flatbed truck applications requiring higher lifting capacities.
- Dock Compatibility: Their design allows vehicles to load and unload at loading docks smoothly without obstruction.
- Gas Bottle Rack Option: Designed specifically for carrying hazardous or bulky materials safely, ideal for industries needing specialized transport.
Railgate lifts are favored for their balance of capacity and foldability without compromising platform size.
Niuli offers a range of hydraulic folding lifts popular in the commercial vehicle segment for their:
- Robust Hydraulic Systems: Provide efficient and reliable lifting with smooth operation.
- Material Options: Both aluminum and steel combinations optimized for strength and corrosion resistance.
- Modular Designs: Adaptable to various truck sizes, including flatbeds and pickups, with custom sizing solutions.
- Certifications and Quality Assurance: Ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards, especially important for industrial users.
Niuli's folding lifts are recognized for reliability in heavy-duty and repeated-use scenarios.
Known for their specific application in pickup trucks and cargo carriers, the Beauway Folding Q700 model includes:
- Loading Capacities of 500 to 1000 kg: Suitable for mid-range weight handling on pickups.
- Steel Platform with Folding Features: Strength combined with easy storage and transport.
- Simple Installation and Maintenance: Favorable for small to medium fleet operators.
Ledwell enhances hauling functionality with folding bed and tailgate solutions aimed at heavy equipment transport:
- Lower Bed Height Design: The HydraTail's platform lies close to the chassis frame, easing loading of taller equipment.
- Folding Tail Feature: Saves ground space during loading/unloading, making it ideal for congested workspaces.
- Available Tandem Axle Versions: For increased load capacity without sacrificing maneuverability.
Ledwell's models are perfect for flatbeds used in construction, landscaping, and equipment transport.
When selecting a folding tail lift for flatbed or pickup trucks, consider the following features:
- Choose models that support the maximum intended load with a safety margin.
- Platforms that fit pallet sizes or the cargo type facilitate efficient handling.
- Aluminum platforms provide corrosion resistance and lighter weight.
- Steel platforms offer higher strength for heavy-duty applications.
- Hydraulic lifts remain the standard due to smooth and powerful operation.
- Electric or hybrid controls add convenience and lower operator fatigue.
- Load sensors and emergency stop buttons prevent accidents.
- Self-leveling platforms maintain stability on uneven ground.
- Power-down functions assist in controlled lowering.
- Accessible components simplify routine checks and repairs.
Proper installation by certified technicians ensures maximum lift performance and safety. Pay attention to:
- Truck bed height compatibility.
- Mounting style (underbody, tuckunder, side-mount).
- Electrical and hydraulic system integration.
Folding tail lifts for pickups typically range from 500 kg to 2,500 lbs (approximately 1,134 kg), depending on the model and construction materials.
Tuckunder lifts stow neatly beneath the truck bed, saving space, reducing rear overhang, and allowing unobstructed rear access for loading and unloading.
Aluminum lifts offer excellent corrosion resistance and lighter weight but are generally less strong than steel. Steel is preferable for heavy-duty applications requiring maximum durability.
Regular lubrication, inspection of hydraulic hoses, checking fluid levels, and ensuring the electrical system and controls function correctly are essential maintenance tasks.
Yes, most folding tail lifts can be retrofitted. However, compatibility with the truck's bed height, chassis, and electrical system should be confirmed before installation.
[1] https://www.tommygate.com/liftgates/flatbed-and-van/
[2] https://www.made-in-china.com/Auto-Parts-Accessories-Catalog/Tail-Lift.html
[3] https://www.usupfitters.com/product/flatbed-and-van-tuckunder-series-3000-lb-liftgate/
[4] https://www.alibaba.com/showroom/tail-lift-for-truck.html
[5] https://www.knapheide.com/platform-bodies/
[6] https://www.alibaba.com/showroom/tail-lifts-for-trucks.html
[7] https://cmtruckbeds.com/truck-beds/
[8] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tail_lift
[9] https://ledwell.com/truck-bodies/hydratail-trucks/
[10] https://www.alibaba.com/showroom/1500kg-truck-tailgate-lift.html
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