What Is Liftgate Service & Do I Need It?
A liftgate is a platform attached to the back of a freight truck that raises or lowers freight between truck level and ground level. Liftgate service enables large or heavy shipments to be unloaded when the delivery location does not have a loading dock, forklift, or other suitable unloading equipment.
For current KaTom-specific pricing, eligibility, and checkout information, visit the Liftgate Delivery Service page.
When Do You Need Liftgate Service?
Whether a liftgate is required for delivery depends primarily on your receiving location and unloading capabilities. Start by asking one question: How will the shipment move safely from the freight truck to the ground?
| You May Need Liftgate Service If... | You May Not Need Liftgate Service If... |
|---|---|
| You do not have a loading dock | You have a loading dock that can safely receive the shipment |
| You do not have a forklift or other suitable unloading equipment | You have an appropriate forklift and trained personnel available |
| Large or heavy equipment must be lowered from truck level to the ground | Your receiving setup allows freight to be unloaded safely from the truck |
| You are unsure how the shipment will be unloaded when it arrives | You already have the equipment and process needed to safely unload the freight |
If you're unsure whether your KaTom order needs liftgate shipping, review the available shipping options for your order or contact a Foodservice Equipment Specialist before the order ships.
What Does Liftgate Delivery Service Include?
Liftgate service typically includes:
- Lowering eligible freight from truck level to ground level
- Use of the freight truck's liftgate platform
- Driver operation of the liftgate
Liftgate service does not typically include:
- Bringing equipment inside the building
- Moving equipment to its final installation location
- Unpacking equipment
- Installing or assembling equipment
- Moving equipment up or down stairs
Ensure you have a plan, enough trained help, and any necessary material-handling equipment to move the shipment once it's delivered.
Can Every Piece of Restaurant Equipment Be Delivered with a Liftgate?
Not every shipment qualifies for liftgate delivery. A piece of equipment may fit inside the freight truck but still be too large, heavy, or awkwardly packaged to be lowered safely on the truck's liftgate. Eligibility can depend on:
- Total shipment weight
- Shipment dimensions
- Pallet size
- Equipment packaging
- Liftgate platform size and weight capacity
- Carrier equipment
Not sure whether your equipment can be delivered with a liftgate? Contact a Foodservice Equipment Specialist before the order ships.
How Should I Prepare for a Liftgate Delivery?
Liftgate delivery is simpler when both the receiving location and the staff members receiving the shipment are prepared before the truck arrives.
- Confirm whether you have a loading dock, forklift, or other unloading equipment.
- Ensure someone is available to receive the shipment.
- Clear and verify access to the delivery area.
- Have a plan for moving the equipment after it reaches ground level.
- Check that doors, hallways, elevators, or other access points can accommodate the equipment.
- Review KaTom's shipping and delivery information before delivery.
Keep in mind that the dimensions listed for a product may not be the same as its packaged shipping dimensions. Account for the pallet, crate, protective packaging, and any parts attached for shipment when planning for delivery and evaluating a path into the building.
How Much Does Liftgate Service Cost?
For KaTom orders, liftgate service can be selected during checkout, and the fee may vary depending on the shipment's starting point. Visit the Liftgate Delivery Service page for current eligibility and pricing information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Liftgate Delivery
What is liftgate delivery?
Liftgate delivery is a freight service in which a platform attached to the back of a truck lowers shipped items from truck level to ground level upon delivery. It's commonly used when the receiving location does not have a loading dock, forklift, or other suitable unloading equipment.
What does "tailgate delivery" mean?
Some carriers use "tailgate delivery" as another term for liftgate delivery. Confirm that the quoted service includes a mechanical platform that lowers the shipment from truck level to ground level.
Is liftgate delivery the same as inside delivery?
No. Liftgate delivery normally ends when the shipment has been lowered safely to ground level. Inside delivery involves moving the shipment beyond that point and is not automatically included with liftgate service.
Can the delivery driver move my equipment inside?
Not as part of standard liftgate service. The driver operates the liftgate and lowers eligible freight to the ground, but the recipient should have a separate plan for moving the equipment inside and into its final position. If you need additional help beyond ground-level delivery, ask about available delivery options before the order ships.
What happens if I need a liftgate but did not request one?
Contact KaTom as soon as you realize the service is needed. A common carrier with liftgate service may be needed if you don't have another suitable way to unload the shipment. If the scheduled truck does not have a liftgate, the carrier may not be able to unload the shipment, which can result in delays, redelivery, or additional fees.
Shopping for Commercial Restaurant Equipment?
Before placing your order, ensure you know how your equipment will be delivered and unloaded. KaTom offers a wide selection of commercial restaurant equipment, and delivery requirements can vary based on the product, shipment size, and your receiving setup.
