A "piggyback" forklift (also called a truck-mounted forklift, TMFL, or "Donkey") is a compact forklift designed to attach securely to the rear of a delivery truck or trailer . The vehicle drives to the delivery site, the forklift detaches and drives off under its own power to unload cargo, and then reattaches for the next stop . This eliminates the need for a separate forklift at the destination and allows a single driver to transport and unload heavy materials without a loading dock .
Key Features
These machines are built for versatility and include several distinct attributes:
Compact & Lightweight – Designed to be light enough not to reduce the truck's payload capacity, with U-shaped chassis and foldable masts to minimize storage space .
Integrated Reach Systems – Many models feature pantograph linkages, telescopic forks, or extendable booms to reach across truck beds and place loads precisely on the far side of a trailer .
All-Terrain Capability – Equipped with three-wheel drive, large pneumatic tires, and rugged construction to handle mud, gravel, and slopes at construction sites or farms .
4-Way Steering (Select Models) – Some higher-capacity versions (e.g., PB55+ 4-Way) allow the forklift to drive sideways, ideal for maneuvering long loads in tight spaces .
Popular Models & Specifications
The market is led by manufacturers like Princeton (PiggyBack brand) and Moffett. Their models typically range from 3,300 to 8,000 lbs capacity .
Model Capacity Key Feature
Princeton PB36 3,600 lbs Static mast, retractable wheel arms; great for beverages & glass
Princeton PB45 Turfmate 4,500 lbs Designed specifically for turf & landscaping deliveries
Princeton PB55+ 5,500 lbs Trac-Loc traction control; ideal for brick & block
Princeton PB80+ 8,000 lbs Highest capacity; for lumber & heavy construction
Moffett M8 NX2 8,000 lbs Four-way steering, "Ground Assist" mounting tech
Specialized Components:
Forks: Require ITA Class II or III "negative drop" (long neck) forks to fit the carriage geometry .
Load Stability: Use deployable stabilizer bars to prevent tip-over when handling heavy loads near or over the cab of the truck .
Who Uses Piggyback Forklifts?
These machines are indispensable in industries where deliveries go to unprepared sites :
Construction: Delivering lumber, roofing, and drywall directly into scaffolding or confined backyards.
Landscaping & Agriculture: Carrying sod, pavers, or feed across muddy fields without damaging the turf.
Recycling & Waste: Handling bulky bales of paper, plastic, or scrap metal in crowded yards.
Gas & LPG: Safely maneuvering cylinders with excellent all-round visibility for the operator.
Dockyards: Shuttling containers between the truck and storage areas.
The Bottom Line
A piggyback forklift essentially turns your delivery truck into a self-sufficient logistics hub. It saves labor costs (the driver is the operator), protects the cargo (no need for a third-party crane), and opens up deliveries to customers without loading docks. For businesses in construction, roofing, landscaping, or LPG delivery, this 2-in-1 machine is often a "gold standard" solution for the last-mile problem .
Note: If you frequently deliver to sites with no dock, this machine pays for itself by converting "difficult deliveries" into profitable revenue.