How to know if your LTL shipment requires a liftgate

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Should you add a liftgate to your LTL shipment dropoff?

Liftgates are generally helpful for most large shipments, but how do you know if your cargo qualifies? In this article, we will discuss whether or not your shipment delivery would benefit from using a liftgate.

What is a liftgate?

A liftgate is a platform attached to the back of a truck that raises and lowers goods from ground level to trailer bed. It is often used as an alternative to a loading dock or a forklift for large deliveries. If your shipment exceeds a standard weight limit or can be considered too large for manual handling, you may need a liftgate.

With a capacity limit of between 2,000 and 6,000 pounds, liftgates offer a sense of security to shippers and forwarders that goods can be unloaded safely and with less risk of damage.  

How do I know if my LTL shipment requires a liftgate?

When considering adding a liftgate to your delivery appointment, you can take a few factors into consideration:

  • How heavy is your freight? If your shipment is bulky, exceeds 100-150 pounds, or cannot be unloaded manually, a liftgate is typically recommended to avoid injury to those unloading the cargo.
  • Does your dropoff location contain a proper loading dock or forklift? These amenities may seem like a given, though they are not guaranteed. Check in with your facility beforehand to see if they suggest a liftgate as an alternative before dispatching your shipment.
  • Communication with your shipment or logistics provider is crucial to optimize the nature and needs of your shipment. Providing accurate information with weight, dimensions, and special handling requirements ensures a smooth delivery process.

For more information about each carrier's liftgate requirements, check out our Liftgate Limits guide below.

How can Koho help?

Koho can locate your optimal carrier and ensure you are getting the right rates and have accurate information. Based on the weight and dimensions of your shipment, Koho can suggest pickup and delivery locations that fit your shipment's needs and special handling requirements. If you want to learn more about how Koho can help you book a shipment, contact one of our pros.

Image of trucks lined up in a parking lot

Should you add a liftgate to your LTL shipment dropoff?

Liftgates are generally helpful for most large shipments, but how do you know if your cargo qualifies? In this article, we will discuss whether or not your shipment delivery would benefit from using a liftgate.

What is a liftgate?

A liftgate is a platform attached to the back of a truck that raises and lowers goods from ground level to trailer bed. It is often used as an alternative to a loading dock or a forklift for large deliveries. If your shipment exceeds a standard weight limit or can be considered too large for manual handling, you may need a liftgate.

With a capacity limit of between 2,000 and 6,000 pounds, liftgates offer a sense of security to shippers and forwarders that goods can be unloaded safely and with less risk of damage.  

How do I know if my LTL shipment requires a liftgate?

When considering adding a liftgate to your delivery appointment, you can take a few factors into consideration:

  • How heavy is your freight? If your shipment is bulky, exceeds 100-150 pounds, or cannot be unloaded manually, a liftgate is typically recommended to avoid injury to those unloading the cargo.
  • Does your dropoff location contain a proper loading dock or forklift? These amenities may seem like a given, though they are not guaranteed. Check in with your facility beforehand to see if they suggest a liftgate as an alternative before dispatching your shipment.
  • Communication with your shipment or logistics provider is crucial to optimize the nature and needs of your shipment. Providing accurate information with weight, dimensions, and special handling requirements ensures a smooth delivery process.

For more information about each carrier's liftgate requirements, check out our Liftgate Limits guide below.

How can Koho help?

Koho can locate your optimal carrier and ensure you are getting the right rates and have accurate information. Based on the weight and dimensions of your shipment, Koho can suggest pickup and delivery locations that fit your shipment's needs and special handling requirements. If you want to learn more about how Koho can help you book a shipment, contact one of our pros.

Liftgate Limits

Liftgate Maximums

Average Limits Across Carriers

Maximum Length

66.5"

Maximum Width

65.5"

Maximum Height

79"

Maximum Weight

2,750 lb

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