JUNE 10, 2025

Liftgate Guide 101 — How Truck Liftgates Work, What They Do, and Why They Matter

If you’re new to liftgates, you’re in the right place. Whether you recently picked up a truck with a gate already installed or you're just learning what these things actually do, we’ve got you covered. This guide keeps things simple and walks through what a liftgate is, how it functions, and why it’s such a game-changer for loading and delivery work.

• What Is a Liftgate and Why Use One?
• Main Components of a Liftgate
• Basic Types of Liftgates Explained
• How a Liftgate Works
• Beginner FAQs
• Where to Learn More
• Conclusion

What Is a Liftgate and Why Use One?

Let’s start with the basics. A liftgate is a hydraulic-powered platform installed on the back (or occasionally the side) of a truck, trailer, or van. It allows cargo to be raised and lowered safely between the ground and the vehicle bed—no muscle strain required.

From couriers and retailers to moving companies and contractors, anyone transporting heavy or awkward cargo can benefit from having a liftgate. These devices reduce injury risk, improve loading speed, and generally make life easier on the road.

Liftgates are also crucial in environments without loading docks. They help bridge the gap between warehouse logistics and last-mile delivery, especially when handling pallets, appliances, drums, or bulky items.

Main Components of a Liftgate

Understanding your equipment can go a long way. Most liftgates are built around a few key parts:

Platform – This is the flat surface that your cargo sits on. It’s typically made of aluminum or steel and may fold in sections to save space when not in use. Some platforms are also coated or galvanized for additional rust protection.

Cylinders – These are the hydraulic muscles of the system. Depending on your model, they raise, lower, tilt, fold, or slide the platform in or out. Many gates include a combination of tilt, lift, and open/close cylinders, depending on the lift style.

Power Unit – Often referred to as a hydraulic power unit or a pump and motor assembly, this is what drives the hydraulic system. It includes an electric motor, hydraulic pump, fluid reservoir, solenoid, and valves. Some higher capacity lift gates, like column liftgates used by the food and beverage industry, may use dual motors or secondary auxiliary power units as well.

Controls & Switches – These are how you operate the gate. You might have a fixed toggle switch near the back of the truck or a wired pendant that gives you more flexibility. Some newer models offer waterproof remote pendants and/or integrated safety locks.

Even though the design can vary across brands, the function is always the same: lift heavy stuff, safely and efficiently.

Basic Types of Liftgates Explained

Choosing the right style depends on your truck type, your loading setup, and how you work day-to-day. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Tuck-Under: These gates fold and store under the truck bed. Great for delivery trucks that need frequent rear access. Brands like Maxon (GPT, TE), Waltco (EM, C series), Palfinger (PLR, ILP) specialize in this category.

Rail: Mounted on rails on the rear frame, these gates lift vertically and are ideal for mid-size box trucks. They offer rock-solid lifting and are easier to service. Think Maxon RC or Waltco MDL series.

Cantilever: Known for their ability to stay level on sloped ground. These gates pivot off rear arms and are common in urban areas or in food service fleets. Palfinger offers high-end cantilever options with weather-sealing. Some of these may also function as the back door to a truck or trailer.

Column: Heavy-duty gates made for the heaviest loads and industrial deliveries. You’ll see these on larger straight trucks and trailers. These gates are designed for strength and high cycle counts.

Pickup Liftgates: Compact, reliable, and perfect for small-business contractors or field techs using a pickup truck liftgate are light weight solutions to help your business increase its efficiency and avoid workplace injuries. Maxon’s C2 series is a solid example.

Sideloader: Positioned on the side of the truck—great in tight urban settings where rear access isn’t ideal. These cover a niche use case.

Each gate style comes with its pros and cons, but knowing what you need it for will help narrow it down.

How a Liftgate Works

It might seem like magic, but it’s all hydraulics and wiring.

First, you hit a toggle or control switch, which tells the power unit to get to work. The electric motor activates the hydraulic pump, which moves pressurized fluid to the cylinders. That pressure either lifts, lowers, tilts, or extends the platform depending on what your gate is designed to do.

Some liftgates use gravity-down systems while others have powered down features. The difference comes down to the need for speed and efficiency versus simplicity and lower maintenance.

Many systems include built-in safety measures like pressure relief valves, switches, and locking mechanisms to prevent accidental motion or damage.

In short, liftgates are a powerful system doing heavy lifting so you don’t have to.

Beginner FAQs

Where’s my serial number? Check for a metal tag riveted to the liftgate frame. We even made a visual guide to help you out.

Can I install a liftgate myself? Unless you’re a skilled welder and electrician, probably not. These systems need wiring, hydraulic hookups, and secure mounting. Your best bet is to find a liftgate installation facility near you to ensure safety is put first and a proper installation is performed.

Is a liftgate the same as a tailgate? Nope. A tailgate swings open; think of a tailgate on a pickup truck or what the compact suv market labeled a tailgate. In our industry, a liftgate lifts heavy cargo on the back of a truck, trailer, or van.

Does every truck need one? Not all. Some companies will use forklifts or docks to unload cargo. But for curbside drops or when no loading dock is in sight, a liftgate can save your back— your time and your money.

What’s the most common problem? When your liftgate is not working, it could be a low battery voltage, stuck toggle switches, or damaged solenoids. Regular checks and proper lift gate maintenance will go a long way to prevent issues.

Where to Learn More

If you're curious about pricing, weight capacity, or how to choose the right gate, check out our Truck Liftgate Buyer’s Guide. And if you ever feel stuck, our team is here to help. We’ve helped thousands of fleet managers, small businesses, and first-time buyers find exactly what they need.

Conclusion

At LiftGateMe, we believe knowing your equipment is key to keeping it running longer. A little understanding goes a long way—whether you're a new owner or managing an entire fleet. Our mission is simple: reduce breakdowns, make ordering easier, and keep you lifting. Have questions? Just give us a shout. We’re here to help.