As logistics and delivery demands evolve across New Zealand, the need for smarter, safer
material handling is on the rise. From construction and retail to last-mile delivery, more
businesses are turning to tail lifts to boost efficiency, minimise physical handling, and keep
operations moving.
Across the Asia Pacific region, similar trends are emerging, driven by growth in e-commerce
and expanding freight networks. While East Asia leads this shift, New Zealand operators are
choosing tail lift solutions built for our unique conditions and industries.
At Palfinger New Zealand, we bring nearly 50 years of experience delivering equipment that works in the real world. Whether you’re operating in tight city streets or rural roads, our tail lift range is built to handle the task, and it’s backed by a nationwide support network you can rely on.
What is a Tail Lift?
A tail lift is a hydraulically powered platform attached to the rear of a truck, van, or
ute, enabling seamless transfer of goods between the ground and the vehicle’s cargo area.
These devices enhance productivity by simplifying heavy lifting, minimising physical strain,
and ensuring safer operations.
Tail lifts are available in various configurations, each tailored to specific applications and vehicle types, making them indispensable for businesses seeking to optimise their operations.
Whether you’re handling heavy equipment in construction or delivering goods in urban settings, a
Palfinger tail lift is your reliable
partner in productivity.
Palfinger’s Tail Lift Range: Built for Every Job
Our tail lifts reflect our commitment to reliability and versatility, offering options tailored to New Zealand’s diverse needs.
Here’s a look at the main types of tail lifts available from Palfinger New Zealand:
Cantilever Tail Lifts
Cantilever lifts mount on hinged arms to the chassis and can tilt to match the ground angle. They fold up to form part of the rear closure and are built for trucks and vans from 3.5 to over 12 tonnes.
- Advantages: Can tilt to match the ground, high load capacities (500–3,000 kg), fast operation, robust, acts as a bridge for dock loading.
- Best for: Heavy loads, general freight, multi-drop deliveries, uneven terrain.
Retractable (Tuck-away) Tail Lifts
These retract under the vehicle when not in use, keeping the rear access clear. They handle 500–2,000 kg.
- Advantages: Compact when stowed, dock-friendly, protected from damage, flexible for varied sites.
- Best for: Dock-to-dock operations and urban deliveries with limited room, trucks needing both dock and liftgate access.
Vertical (Column/Rail) Tail Lifts
Mounted on an “H” frame, the platform moves straight up and down along guide columns, staying horizontal.
- Advantages: Lightweight and adjustable, can handle heavy loads, stable and safe for equipment that needs to remain upright.
- Best for: Beverage distribution, home deliveries, tall truck bodies.
Foldable Tail Lifts
These are designed for stability on uneven ground, extending horizontally from under the chassis. With load capacities of 1,500 kg, they are well-suited for construction sites and rural jobs.
- Advantages: Leaves the rear clear for dock loading/unloading, doesn’t block access to rear doors, compact and versatile, provides a large platform when deployed.
- Best for: Mixed delivery operations, urban distribution, palletised freight, construction and rural operations.
How to Choose the Right Tail Lift
Choosing the right tail lift depends on your specific needs. Consider:
- Load weight: Lighter loads (500–1,000 kg) often suit vertical or retractable; heavier loads (up to 3,000 kg) may need cantilever or foldable.
- Vehicle type: Vans often pair with vertical options; trucks benefit from the durability of cantilever or foldable.
- Usage: Frequent stops favour cantilever or vertical for speed. Regular dock work aligns with retractable or foldable.
If you’re unsure, our team at Palfinger New Zealand can help you find the perfect fit for your vehicle and operation.
Why Choose Palfinger?
- Built for New Zealand: Nearly 50 years supporting local operators with equipment proven to last.
- Innovative and reliable: Our tail lifts are lighter, faster, and safer, incorporating advanced hydraulics and smart load monitoring.
- Tailored solutions: Palfinger equipment is tailored to meet specific operational needs, delivered with local expertise.
- Fast delivery: Palfinger New Zealand knows the NZ market inside out. We can deliver the right tail lift for your setup in a competitive timeframe.
- Nationwide support: We offer direct service in Auckland and Christchurch, and have 29 trusted third-party partners nationwide.
Support That Goes the Distance
We don’t stop at delivery. Our proactive parts management means we stock what you need to minimise downtime, and our technical team is here for the long haul, wherever you are in New Zealand.
Get a Tail Lift Quote
A Palfinger tail lift isn’t just another piece of equipment, it’s a step ahead for your business.
Ready to find the right fit for your truck, van, or ute? Contact Palfinger New Zealand for expert advice or a tailored quote today.
FAQs
Which tail lift is best for a van in NZ?
Vertical (column/rail) options are often best for vans due to compact size, lighter weight and easy, level travel.
How much weight can a tail lift carry?
Most models handle from 500 kg up to 3,000 kg. Choose based on your heaviest regular load, not the average.
Do tail lifts require regular servicing?
Yes. Routine maintenance is essential for safety and NZ compliance. Palfinger New Zealand provides full service support nationwide through our service partners.
What’s the difference between cantilever and retractable?
Cantilever tilts to match the ground and suits heavy or uneven loads. Retractable folds under the chassis and keeps the rear clear for dock access.