Liftgate or Tailgate ?
Liftgate, tailgate, gate, tailboard, cargo lift… these terms are often used interchangeably in the transportation industry. However, they do not refer to the same thing.
This confusion is common among fleet managers, truck owners, delivery companies, and even some buyers looking for new equipment. As a result, it’s not uncommon for a company to request a “tailgate” when what it actually needs is a true liftgate capable of lifting pallets and heavy cargo.
Before investing in equipment or planning an installation, it’s important to understand the difference between these two concepts. If you’re currently in the process of purchasing or evaluating equipment, we also recommend consulting our comprehensive guide on the subject: How to Choose the Right Liftgate for Your Truck or Trailer. There, you’ll discover the essential criteria to consider before selecting a model suited to your operations.
In this article, we’ll clarify once and for all the difference between a liftgate and a tailgate.
Liftgate or Tailgate: What’s the Difference ?
At CANVEC, this is one of the most common questions we receive.
Many people use the terms liftgate, tailgate, tailboard and cargo lift as if they meant the same thing. However, there is an important difference.
What is a tailgate ?
The term tailgate simply refers to the rear panel of a vehicle.
For example: :
- The rear panel of a pickup truck
- The hatchback of an SUV
- The folding rear door of a light-duty truck
A tailgate is generally not designed to lift loads mechanically.
In short, a tailgate is a rear door or panel.
What is a liftgate ?
A liftgate is a hydraulic or electrohydraulic platform installed at the rear of a truck or trailer.
Its functions are to:
- Lift pallets
- Lower merchandise
- Facilitate loading and unloading
- Reduce the risk of employee injuries
Liftgates are commonly used in:
- Food delivery
- Furniture transport
- Commercial distribution
- Urban delivery operations
- Transportation of heavy materials
A liftgate is a material-handling device designed to lift loads, whereas a tailgate is simply a rear door.
Well-known brands in the Canadian market include:
- Maxon Liftgates
- Dhollandia Liftgates
- Waltco Liftgates
- Anthony Liftgates
- Anteo Liftgate
- Tommy Gate
- BAR CargoLift
- Thieman Liftgate
Here’s a graphic (in French) that explains the real difference between a liftgate and a tailgate.
The difference between a liftgate and a tailgate is simple: a tailgate is the rear door of a vehicle, while a liftgate is a hydraulic platform capable of lifting pallets and heavy merchandise. Liftgates are used in commercial transportation, delivery, and logistics to improve safety and productivity.
Why does this confusion exist?
In the United States, many people use the word “tailgate” generically to refer to a liftgate.
In French-speaking Canada, the most commonly used terms are:
- Liftgate
- Loading lift
- Cargo lift
- Hydraulic loading platform
In the transportation industry, when referring to equipment capable of lifting pallets or cargo, the correct term is generally liftgate.
Quick Comparison Chart: Liftgate VS Tailgate
| Feature | Tailgate | Liftgate |
| Primary Function | Close the rear of the vehicle | Lifting and lowering goods |
| Hydraulic system | No | Yes |
| Lifting capacity | None | Up to 6,600 lb and more |
| Used for skids | No | Yes |
| Commercial Trucks | Rarely | Very frequent |
| Reduces handling-related injuries | No | Yes |
Louis’s Advice
« When a customer calls us about a tailgate, we always take a few minutes to confirm exactly what they’re looking for. In many cases, they’re actually referring to a liftgate. This clarification allows us to recommend the right solution from the start. »
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, a tailgate and a liftgate serve completely different functions. A tailgate is simply a rear door, while a liftgate is a hydraulic device designed to improve material handling, reduce physical effort, and speed up loading and unloading operations.
For transportation, distribution, and delivery companies, choosing the right type of liftgate can have a significant impact on employee safety, productivity, and long-term operating costs.
If you’re considering purchasing a new liftgate or would like to better understand the different models available on the market, check out our comprehensive guide: Comment choisir un liftgate.
There, you’ll find advice from Louis Chevrier, a liftgate specialist at CANVEC, as well as the main mistakes to avoid before making a decision.
About CANVEC
Founded in 1990, CANVEC specializes in truck and trailer rentals, 24/7 roadside service, and the sale and service of liftgates and parts. Led by President and CEO Danny Lefebvre, the company has been a trusted name in the industry for more than 35 years. With over 1,200 rental units, 24/7 roadside service, and a team of qualified technicians, CANVEC helps you get back on the road faster.
Quickly on the road.
Because every second counts.
Visit CANVEC Online
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