Keeping in mind the growing popularity and demand of the logistic sector, for fast, easy and effective loading and unloading of goods tail lifts are very essential. They play an integral part in trucks and vans used for the delivery of various products and goods. The goods to be transported to the various places can be easily and safely loaded and unloaded either by lifting or lowering the platform. In simple words tail lift is a mechanical device that is attached to the rear end of a vehicle, say a truck or van. They are constructed and designed specifically to enable easy handling of goods from a lower level to a higher level or vice versa.
Need for tail lifts:
The use reduces manual labour and eliminates unwanted risk of injury or any damage to the goods. It also excludes the need for use of any machinery to load any bulky and heavy items onto a vehicle or can be used as a platform to bridge the height gap between the loading dock and the vehicle load bed. These products are available either in steel or aluminium. They are available for both light and heavy duty vehicles. They are obtainable in different sizes and capacities ranging from 450 to 2500 kilos.
Types of tail lifts:
1.Column lifts: This is the most common type of lift used by most distribution companies. They are also most commonly installed on hire vehicles. These lifts are mechanically operated although they can also be hydraulic or pneumatic. They are operated on tracks which are fitted to the rear end of the vehicles. From the tracks, extends a platform which can be folded and can be moved up and down. These tail lifts are easy to fit and install and requires very minimal time. This type of lift is very beneficial to lift loads to a higher level than the load bed.
2. Cantilever lifts: This lift was first designed and constructed by Zepro. This is operated only with the help of hydraulic or pneumatic system and not mechanically. This lift works on the principle of a set of rams fitted to the chassis of the vehicle. These rams are in turn attached to hinges which enable them to move as they expand or contract. With the help of the rams the platform that aids easy loading and unloading of goods can be raised, lowered or even inclined. The major benefit offered by this tail lift is that it facilitates the tilting movement which makes the loading and unloading process much quicker and simpler.
Maintenance of tail lifts:
They should be serviced at least once in six months. Maintenance and repair work should be undertaken only by a competent technician using correct service techniques and procedures. The service technician will then certify and assure that the tail lift is in a perfect mechanical and electrical condition and safe for use.
Conclusion:
They are suitable for a wide range of applications and are specially designed and meant for perishable and chilled goods. Nowadays they are also specially constructed for use in small vehicles also. Yes, tail lifts are robust, dependable, efficient and ideal for heavy loads. Buy one today and make handling of heavy goods an easy task.