If you’re after a heavy-duty, utility solution for your transporting and carrying needs, a hook lift for your truck may be the answer you’ve been searching for.

A truck hook lift system is the go-to choice for business owners looking for versatile and reliable vehicles and could soon become your business’s most invaluable piece of equipment. Perfect for various jobs, from transferring construction debris and rubbish removal, a hook lift allows flexibility with easy operation.

So, let’s take a closer look at what hook lifts for trucks are and how they can revolutionise how you operate your business.

What is a Hook Lift for Trucks?

Outline of truck hook lift

A truck hook lift is a hydraulic device fitted to the chassis of your vehicle that helps transport materials, cargo and heavy loads. The major advantage of the hydraulic hoist system is it allows contractors, municipalities and others to roll on and roll off a range of containers and truck bodies in a safer, easier and more convenient way. It also allows drivers to lift heavy loads onto the truck without any manual assistance, which helps prioritise the safety of your workers and others.

Hydraulic hook systems comprise a series of parts, including hydraulic cylinders, a jib frame and the hook, which work in conjunction to lift, transport and drop off. Some of the key components of a hook lift include:

  • Hydraulic cylinders. The heart of your hook lift which powers the entire device. Different cylinders can have different functions. A lift cylinder, for example, aids with not just lifting but also with unloading. A tilt cylinder helps operate the tilt function of a hook lift.
  • Hydraulic Locks. These mechanisms ensure whatever you’re carrying remains secure on the back of your truck and won’t come loose—an integral feature for securing a load and keeping everyone safe.
  • Hook Latch. It not only grabs hold of the container but helps keep it secure during pick-up and drop-off.
  • Sliding arm/jib. Attached to the main body of the hoist and run by the lift cylinders and extension cylinder. Used to reach for containers, extending the hook grab hold.
  • Cab Control. It allows you to control the hook lift.

10 Advantages of Hydraulic Hook Lifts

  1. Versatility. Hook lift trucks supply versatility and can carry a range of containers and trailers. Just one truck can perform the tasks of several other vehicles.
  2. Reduce Fleet Size. The versatility of each hook lift truck means you won’t need as many vehicles in your fleet, reducing both maintenance and registration costs.
  3. Accuracy. Better than roll-off trucks regarding accuracy and convenience, allowing you to manoeuvre a drop-off or pick-up more easily. This ensures your body is exactly where it needs to be every time.
  4. Quick Change Overs. Time is money, and with hook lift systems, you can switch containers quickly. Fantastic when you have multiple jobs or are working on a project with several loads to be carried.
  5. No need for cables. A cable is a useful component to many mechanisms but requires a lot of upkeep and, eventually, replacement.
  6. Stability. Locking mechanisms ensure your load stays secure, adding to the stability of the load.
  7. Flexibility. Easy to manoeuvre in tight and difficult spaces of any size. Perfect if you perform a lot of pick-ups in a variety of locations.
  8. Customisable. Need something specific for your business? Hook lifts can be customised to suit your needs. Whether you need something that can carry larger loads or something especially versatile, we’ve got you covered.
  9. Safety. Improved driver safety. Drivers don’t need to be out of the work truck while machinery is lifting or dropping off a load.
  10. Easy to learn. Anyone familiar with driving commercial trucks will have the skills to learn how to work a hook lift truck.

Applications of hydraulic hook lifts

Hydraulic hook lifts can perform various tasks, from hauling a container to moving heavy materials. The flexibility of these trucks is the main reason hydraulic hook lift trucks are so popular in various industries.

Hook lift trucks are used in a wide range of businesses. These include:

  • Construction
  • Demolition
  • Recycling service
  • Forestry contractors
  • Landscaping
  • Mechanics
  • Scrap metal
  • Mining sites
  • Waste management
  • Disposal

That’s to name a few. They can also carry and dump material from gravel, stone and steel debris.

Factors to consider when selecting a hook lift for your truck

Lifting Capacity

Consider what you plan to use your hook lift for, the types of materials you’ll be hauling and the weight your truck needs to be able to carry.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel will be your main ongoing expense, so choosing the best option for your company is important. The key factors for your decision will be the types of jobs your hook lift will be doing, the locations you’re travelling to, and the weight of items you carry, among others.

Storage Options

Hook Lift trucks don’t travel lightly, and you’ll carry tools and other gear when on duty. The size of these tools will vary, but various storage solutions are available.

Fixed or Articulated Jib

A fixed jib has fewer moving parts and is useful for basic loading and loading where height restrictions are not an issue. An articulated jib is useful for keeping a lower loading height while getting the hook closer to the truck’s rear when loading.

READ MORE: How to choose the best hook lift system for trucks

West-trans is your local expert regarding hook lift trucks and handling your transit needs. Along with hook lift trucks, we’re your go-to experts for skip-loaders, tarping systems, dog trailers and more. If you have any questions or want to contact us about a hook lift truck, contact us today.