Choosing the right tailgate truck can make all the difference — whether you’re moving house, transporting equipment for business, or handling deliveries. A good tailgate truck saves time, reduces physical strain, and enhances safety by making loading and unloading easier. In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to consider — from your cargo and liftgate features to rental choices and costs — so you can make an informed decision.
Throughout the article, we’ll link to key vehicle rental resources like Trend Rentals to help you find the right truck for hire in Australia.
1. What Is a Tailgate Truck and Why It Matters
A tailgate truck (also known as a liftgate truck) is a vehicle equipped with a mechanical lifting platform mounted at the rear. This platform — either hydraulic or electric — helps raise and lower cargo between ground level and the truck’s loading bay.
This type of truck is essential when you’re dealing with heavy, bulky, or awkward items, such as appliances, pallets, machinery, or furniture. Instead of manually lifting items into the truck, the tailgate lift does the heavy work for you, improving safety and efficiency. For movers, trade professionals, and business owners alike, this can transform a tough task into a manageable one.
👉 Rental option: Consider browsing the truck fleet at Trend Rentals to find vehicles with tailgate options and appropriate sizes for your needs. You can explore available vehicles here
2. Understand Your Load Requirements
Before selecting a tailgate truck, you must know what you’ll carry:
a. Volume
Estimate how much space your items require. Small household goods might fit in a compact truck, while furniture from a three-bedroom house may need a large truck.
- Listing all items helps you choose the correct body length and cargo volume.
- Trucks with too small a cargo bay will require multiple trips, while oversized trucks can cost more than necessary.
b. Weight
Know the approximate weight of your items. Tailgate lifts have weight capacities — exceeding them can be unsafe or damage the lift.
⚠️ Tip: Compare the lifting capacity and payload limits. Depending on your cargo, you may require a more robust hydraulic system or a truck with higher capacity.
3. Types of Lift Systems
The efficiency of your tailgate truck depends heavily on the lift system:
Hydraulic Tail Lifts
- Powerful and capable of lifting heavier loads (often several hundred kilograms).
- Ideal for commercial or industrial use.
- Require routine maintenance.
Electric Tail Lifts
- Quieter and more energy-efficient.
- Easier to operate for lighter loads.
- Often require less maintenance than hydraulic systems.
4. Choosing the Right Size Truck
Selecting the appropriate size will ensure the move goes smoothly:
Small Tailgate Trucks
- Perfect for small deliveries or light goods.
- Easier to drive and manoeuvre.
Medium Tailgate Trucks
- Ideal for a larger home move or business deliveries.
- Offer a balance of capacity and cost.
Large Tailgate Trucks
- Best for heavy, bulky loads (e.g., building materials, commercial equipment).
- Often require a higher driving license class in some regions.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re renting, check the vehicle’s maximum load volume and weight capacity to ensure it matches your needs. You can find a range of vehicles (including larger trucks) in Trend Rentals’ truck fleet.
5. Safety and Load-Securing Features
Safety is paramount when handling heavy cargo. Look for these features when choosing a tailgate truck:
Integrated Load Securing
- Tie-down points inside the cargo area help secure goods and prevent movement.
- Non-slip surfaces on the tailgate and cargo bay improve grip and safety.
Safety Locks and Sensors
- Locking mechanisms keep the tailgate secure during transport.
- Load-sensing technology can prevent overload.
Backup Features
- Emergency stop controls and manual lowering options are helpful in case of malfunction.
6. Licence Requirements and Regulations
Different truck sizes may require different driving license classes, depending on your region. For instance, larger trucks often require a medium rigid (MR) or higher license, while smaller commercial trucks may be drivable with a standard car license.
⚠️ Always verify your license requirements before hiring a truck with a tailgate, especially if it’s over a certain weight or size.
7. Renting vs. Owning: Pros and Cons
Renting a Tailgate Truck
Pros:
- Access to a wide range of trucks without purchasing.
- Flexible hire durations (short-term or long-term).
- Maintenance and roadside assistance often included with rentals.
Cons:
- Rental costs can add up for frequent use.
- Availability may vary during peak times.
Owning a Tailgate Truck
Pros:
- Complete control over vehicle usage.
- No ongoing rental fees.
Cons:
- High upfront cost and ongoing maintenance.
- Depreciation and insurance expenses.
👉 Tip: For most homeowners or occasional business needs, renting a truck from a reputable provider like Trend Rentals makes more sense than ownership. You can view and compare truck options here
8. Budget Planning
When budgeting for a tailgate truck rental or purchase, consider:
- Daily or hourly rental rates
- Fuel costs
- Insurance coverage
- Mileage charges (if any)
- Additional equipment hire (e.g., tie-downs, blankets)
💡 Rental Tip: If you’re planning a one-off move, booking early can lock in better rates and guarantee availability. For longer projects, negotiate long-term rental deals.
9. Insurance and Liability
Whether renting or owning, insurance protects you against damage or loss.
For rentals:
- Ask about collision damage waiver, third-party liability, and optional equipment coverage.
- Understand excess amounts and what is covered.
📌 Rental agreement tip: Read all terms and conditions carefully before signing. Many providers have clear policies regarding fuel, damage, and liability — for example, Trend Rentals’ FAQ outlines key hire responsibilities and insurance details.
10. Tips for a Smooth Tailgate Truck experience
Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your tailgate truck:
a. Plan Your Loading Strategy
- Place heavier items towards the front of the cargo bay.
- Distribute weight evenly to maintain balance.
b. Use Accessories Wisely
- Tie-downs and cargo nets keep items secure.
- Moving blankets and padding reduce damage during transit.
c. Familiarise Yourself with the Controls
If you’re new to tailgate trucks, spend a few minutes understanding how the lift operates. Ask the rental company for a quick demonstration if you need one.
d. Inspect Before You Drive
Check for any existing damage before driving off, and note it with the rental company to avoid disputes later.
11. Tailgate Trucks for Business Use
If you need a truck for commercial deliveries or trade work:
- Choose a vehicle with a higher payload capacity.
- Look for models with robust safety and load management features.
- Consider long-term rentals or fleet solutions that offer cost savings and consistent availability.
You may find that flexible leasing through providers like Trend Rentals offers a smart way to manage business transport needs without owning a fleet. Explore their business solutions.
12. Final Checklist Before You Choose
Ask yourself this checklist before booking or buying a tailgate truck:
✅ Do I know the volume and weight of my cargo?
✅ Have I chosen a liftgate type that matches my needs?
✅ Is the truck size appropriate?
✅ Do I have the right licence to drive this vehicle?
✅ Are safety systems adequate?
✅ Have I compared rental costs and insurance options?
If the answer is “yes” to all of these, you’re ready to choose your tailgate truck with confidence.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tailgate truck doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your cargo, liftgate systems, truck size, safety features, and rental options — including reliable providers like Trend Rentals — you can make a choice that saves time, reduces risk, and fits your budget.
Whether you’re moving house, transporting gear for your business, or handling logistics for a project, the right tailgate truck ensures you’re ready for the job ahead — efficiently and safely.
👉 Explore trending truck and vehicle hire options, including trucks with tailgate capabilities and more, at Trend Rentals.