Shipping guide
Do I Need a Liftgate?
You need a liftgate when the pickup or delivery location has no loading dock or forklift capable of safely moving the freight between the ground and the trailer. Homes, storefronts, construction sites, and many small businesses commonly need one. Typical industry fees are about $75 to $200 per occurrence for budgeting, not a quote.
Blake Brunk
COO, FreightCake
What a liftgate does
A liftgate is a hydraulic platform mounted to the back of a truck. It raises and lowers a pallet between trailer height and ground level when a dock or forklift is unavailable.
You probably need a liftgate when
- The address is a residence or home-based business.
- The location has no loading dock.
- No forklift is available at the scheduled time.
- The freight is too heavy for safe manual unloading.
- The site is a storefront, jobsite, school, church, or storage facility.
You may not need one when
- A usable dock matches the carrier trailer height.
- A rated forklift and trained operator are available.
- The carrier confirms another safe unloading arrangement.
What liftgate service costs
A typical industry budgeting range is $75 to $200 for liftgate service at pickup or delivery. Some carriers price each end separately, and minimums, location type, contract, and tariff can change the charge. This range is illustrative, not a quote.
How to avoid a surprise fee
- Ask both locations whether they have a dock or forklift.
- Confirm the equipment is available during the appointment.
- Add liftgate service to the quote and BOL when needed.
- Do not label a residential or limited-access site as commercial dock service.
An undeclared liftgate can become an invoice correction or failed delivery. Review accessorial charges before booking.
New to pallet freight? Start with the step-by-step guide to shipping a pallet.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a liftgate for residential delivery?
Usually, unless the residence has a suitable dock or forklift and the carrier approves the unloading plan.
How much does liftgate service cost?
A typical illustrative industry range is $75 to $200 per occurrence. Carrier tariff, location, contract, and whether service is needed at one or both ends affect the charge.
Is liftgate service charged at pickup and delivery?
It can be. If both locations need a liftgate, carriers may charge the service separately at each end.
Can a driver unload a pallet without a liftgate?
Only when the location has appropriate unloading equipment or the freight can be handled safely under the carrier rules. Do not assume manual unloading is available.
What happens if I forget to request a liftgate?
The carrier may add a post-delivery charge, delay the delivery, or require redelivery after the service is arranged.
Does inside delivery include a liftgate?
Not necessarily. Inside delivery and liftgate are separate accessorials and may both be required.