This post contains affiliate links. This means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase [ “As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.” ]. Read the full disclosure here.
Box Truck for Sale with Liftgate: The Ultimate Workhorse for Heavy Loads GuideMechanic.Com If you’re searching for a box truck for sale with liftgate, you’re likely hauling heavy items that need an extra assist at loading time.
Whether you’re delivering appliances, furniture, event gear, or commercial supplies, a liftgate is more than a convenience — it’s a necessity.
In this article, we’ll cover why a liftgate-equipped box truck is a smart investment, what types are available, common pricing, and how to choose the right one for your business.
Box Truck for Sale with Liftgate
See Also: Low Mileage Box Truck for Sale
What Is a Liftgate?
A liftgate is a hydraulic or electric platform installed at the rear of a box truck. It lifts cargo from the ground to the truck floor (or vice versa), eliminating the need for a dock or manual loading.
Common Liftgate Types:
- Tuck-under: Folds and stores under the chassis when not in use
- Railgate: Mounts directly to the truck’s rear; offers better support
- Cantilever: Tilts to match uneven ground; ideal for heavier loads
Why Choose a Box Truck with Liftgate?
A liftgate is essential when:
- You don’t have access to a loading dock
- You’re moving heavy or bulky items like furniture or equipment
- Your deliveries involve frequent stops or tight schedules
- You operate with a small team or solo
The liftgate saves time, labor, and injury risk, especially during high-volume workdays.
Best Uses for Liftgate Box Trucks
| Use Case | Why a Liftgate Helps |
|---|---|
| Appliance or furniture delivery | Allows safe, easy unloading |
| Event equipment transport | Speeds up setup and teardown |
| Food and beverage service | Reduces strain when handling heavy stock |
| Freight and logistics | Ideal for multiple drops without docks |
| Junk removal or moving services | Makes lifting large items much safer |
Popular Box Truck Sizes with Liftgates
Here’s a guide to the most common box truck sizes equipped with liftgates:
| Size | Payload Capacity | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| 14 ft | 5,000–7,000 lbs | Local deliveries, food service |
| 16 ft | 7,000–8,500 lbs | Medium load routes, urban delivery |
| 20 ft | 8,500–10,000 lbs | Regional freight or logistics |
| 24 ft | 10,000–12,000 lbs | High-volume deliveries, larger teams |
| 26 ft | 12,000+ lbs | Dock height loading, commercial hauling |
Average Price of Box Trucks with Liftgate
Prices vary depending on the truck’s age, mileage, engine type, and liftgate condition. Below is a general breakdown:
| Truck Size | Model Years | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 ft | 2012–2018 | 120k–180k | $10,000–$16,000 |
| 16 ft | 2011–2017 | 130k–190k | $11,000–$17,000 |
| 20 ft | 2010–2016 | 140k–210k | $13,000–$19,000 |
| 24 ft | 2009–2015 | 150k–230k | $15,000–$22,000 |
| 26 ft | 2008–2014 | 160k–250k | $16,000–$24,000 |
Liftgate condition adds about $1,000–$3,000 in value over non-liftgate models, especially if it’s hydraulic and recently serviced.
Top Brands and Models to Look For
| Make & Model | Engine Type | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ford E-450 / F-650 | Gas/Diesel | Versatile sizes, common liftgates |
| Isuzu NPR / NQR | Gas/Diesel | Great for urban deliveries |
| GMC Savana / TopKick | Gas/Diesel | Strong platform, easy part access |
| Freightliner M2 | Diesel | Ideal for larger freight operations |
| Hino 268 / 195 | Diesel | Long-lasting, reliable for hauling |
What to Inspect on the Liftgate Before Buying
Buying a used box truck? The liftgate is a high-wear component, so make sure it functions properly.
Key inspection points:
- Hydraulic motor: No unusual noise or slow lift?
- Platform: No rust, bending, or holes?
- Controls: Easy to operate with full range of motion?
- Weight test: Can it lift at least 1,000–2,500 lbs?
A faulty liftgate can be expensive to fix — repairs may range from $800 to $2,500, depending on the problem.
Box Truck for Sale with Liftgate
What GVWR Should You Look For?
To avoid needing a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License), look for a box truck with a GVWR under 26,000 lbs. Many 14–20 ft box trucks with liftgates fall in this category.
CDL-free examples:
- Ford E-450 (GVWR ~14,500 lbs)
- Isuzu NPR (GVWR ~14,500–17,950 lbs)
- GMC 3500 or 4500 series trucks
Larger trucks (24–26 ft) often have a GVWR over 26,000 lbs, which may require a CDL depending on your state.
Tips for Buying a Box Truck with Liftgate
- Request maintenance records, especially for the liftgate
- Test the liftgate under load if possible
- Check the GVWR to ensure it meets licensing requirements
- Inspect electrical wiring to the lift controls
- Look for signs of abuse: warped platform, cracked welds, leaking fluid
Also consider trucks previously used by fleet companies or delivery services, as they are usually well maintained and replaced on schedule.
Is a Liftgate Truck Worth the Investment?
Yes — especially if your business handles heavy deliveries, high volume, or lacks access to docks. A liftgate can:
- Speed up delivery times
- Reduce injury risk
- Allow solo or small crew work
- Handle heavier payloads safely
Over time, that investment can pay off in saved labor, reduced delays, and customer satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
A box truck with a liftgate is one of the best tools a delivery, logistics, or service business can invest in. Whether you’re buying new or used, adding a liftgate instantly improves efficiency, safety, and versatility.
From compact 14 ft models to heavy-duty 26 ft trucks, there’s a liftgate-equipped box truck to match your budget and work needs. Just make sure you inspect thoroughly, confirm liftgate function, and understand what GVWR fits your license and route.
- Box Truck for Sale in Ohio - July 28, 2025
- box truck for sale in North Carolina - July 28, 2025
- Box Truck for Sale in Michigan - July 28, 2025