Choosing the right delivery method is crucial for businesses moving palletised goods. Tail lift transport provides a practical solution when unloading facilities such as forklifts, ramps or loading docks might be unavailable. It allows shipments to be lowered safely from the truck to the ground, making it a preferred option for deliveries to commercial premises, urban locations and sites where manual unloading would be impractical.
However, tail lift deliveries are not suitable for all shipments. Factors such as cargo weight, surface conditions and vehicle access must be considered to avoid delivery issues. While businesses with designated unloading yards or forklifts may not require a tail lift, those receiving palletised goods in locations without specialist equipment will often find it the most efficient solution.
This guide will help businesses assess whether tail lift transport is the right choice, covering when it works best, its limitations and how to prepare for a smooth delivery.
Table of Contents
What Is Tail Lift Delivery?
A tail lift is a mechanical platform that lowers goods from the truck bed to the ground, making it an effective solution for handling palletised shipments. Once the goods are lowered, a pump pallet truck is typically used to manoeuvre them into place by hand.
However, tail lift deliveries have limitations. The pump pallet truck used for movement has small wheels that do not function effectively on gravel, steep inclines or soft ground. For this reason, most tail lift deliveries are made to kerbside locations or unloading yards, where the truck can offload onto a flat, solid surface.
On the other hand, businesses with forklift access or dedicated unloading yards may not require a tail lift, as forklifts can lift pallets directly from the truck bed, allowing for faster and more efficient handling. Choosing between tail lift transport and forklift unloading depends on the site conditions, available equipment and the weight of the shipment.
When Tail Lift Transport Is the Best Option
A tail lift is the most practical delivery option when the recipient does not have a forklift, an unloading bay or suitable lifting equipment. It is commonly used for retail stock deliveries to shops, offices and small warehouses where manual unloading would be difficult. Businesses receiving equipment such as printers, office furniture and industrial supplies also benefit from tail lift deliveries, as it allows for a controlled unloading process without specialist machinery.
This transport method is also ideal for kerbside deliveries, particularly in urban areas where warehouse access is restricted or where shipments need to be placed directly outside a building. Tail lift transport is well-suited to medium-weight shipments that require careful handling but do not exceed the weight capacity of the tail lift itself.
Size and Weight Limits for Tail Lift Deliveries
Understanding the size and weight limitations of tail lift deliveries helps to ensure a successful shipment.
- Vehicle Size: Most tail lift transport is carried out using 18-tonne lorries, which are comparable in size to a refuse truck. If a business is located on a narrow road or restricted-access site, a 7.5-tonne vehicle may be preferable.
- Weight Limit: Most tail lift deliveries can accommodate loads of up to 1,000kg per lift, but capacities may vary depending on the vehicle and tail lift type. Some 18-tonne lorries are fitted with tail lifts capable of handling up to 1,500kg, though this is not standard across all fleets. Businesses moving heavier loads should confirm weight restrictions in advance and explore alternative unloading methods if necessary.
- Surface Conditions: A tail lift can only be used on solid, level ground. Surfaces such as gravel, inclines or soft ground make unloading impossible, as pump pallet trucks will not function properly.
By ensuring that their shipments comply with these requirements, businesses can prevent delivery delays and unexpected handling issues.
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When a Tail Lift Delivery Might Not Be Suitable
While tail lift transport is a convenient option, it does not suit every shipment. Businesses must assess whether their delivery location, cargo type and unloading requirements align with tail lift deliveries before booking.
A key limitation is the need for solid, level ground. Tail lift deliveries cannot be completed on gravel, soft soil or steep inclines, as pallet trucks do not function on uneven terrain. If the site is unsuitable, businesses should consider alternatives such as forklifts or HIAB (crane-assisted) deliveries, which can lift heavy or oversized goods directly into place.
Cargo weight and size are also factors. Tail lift transport is designed for palletised goods within the vehicle’s weight limits, as outlined above. Heavier or irregularly shaped shipments may need specialist handling equipment. If so, alternative delivery methods should be explored.
Finally, while tail lift deliveries are often made to the kerbside, some businesses may arrange for unloading in designated yards or other accessible areas. However, as drivers do not typically provide goods handling services, businesses must ensure the necessary equipment or personnel to move goods beyond the drop-off point will be available. If precise placement indoors or on upper levels is required, HIAB delivery or forklift unloading may be a more suitable alternative.
Why Is Preparing for a Tail Lift Delivery Important?
Proper preparation for tail lift deliveries prevents delays, unexpected costs and logistical setbacks. Without the right unloading conditions, shipments may be refused, rescheduled or left in an unsuitable location, causing disruption to business operations.
As mentioned, vehicle access and ground conditions can impact unloading. If you are arranging a delivery to a customer, then it is important to know what sort of unloading facility, if any, they have. Without such verification, goods could be damaged or rejected before they are signed for which would lead to an unnecessary administrative headache.
Summary
Tail lift transport is typically the best option for businesses delivering palletised goods to sites without loading docks or where direct ground-level unloading is required. It suits medium-weight shipments delivered to kerbside, small warehouses or urban premises with potentially restricted access.
At Barrington Freight, we ensure smooth tail lift deliveries, providing reliable transport solutions tailored to your cargo and delivery site. Contact our team today to arrange a hassle-free shipment and receive expert guidance on the best logistics options for your business.
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For advice and information on importing, call 01268 525444 or email us today.
