A truck-mounted forklift is a compact, self-loading forklift that attaches to the rear of a delivery truck or trailer and travels with the vehicle. Also known as a piggyback forklift, TMF, or all-terrain forklift, it allows the driver to detach the forklift at any delivery site—regardless of whether the customer has a loading dock or a forklift of their own—unload the cargo, and reattach the forklift before driving away. This 2-in-1 solution eliminates the need for a second vehicle, a crane, or manual unloading labor, making it essential for construction material delivery, agriculture, landscaping, and last-mile logistics.
How It Works
The forklift is secured to the rear of a truck or trailer using a pre-installed carrier with hooks, chains, or latches. Once the delivery truck arrives at the destination, the forklift is dismounted from the carrier under its own power. In less than one minute, it is ready to unload pallets, equipment, or bulk materials. After the delivery is complete, the forklift is driven back onto the truck and secured for transport.
Key Features and Specifications
Lift Capacity: Typically ranges from 2,500 lbs to 6,000 lbs. The Manitou TMT line handles up to nearly 6,000 lbs, while the MOFFETT M9 offers up to 6,000 lbs and the M4 NX V provides up to 4,500 lbs.
Mast Height: Usually between 8 and 16 feet. Models like the Moffett M8 55.3P NX feature a moving mast with 144-inch lift height.
Weight: The forklift itself weighs between 1,800 and 3,500 pounds. The M4 45.3P weighs 4,420 lbs.
Engine: Most units use fuel-efficient diesel engines. The Moffett M8 55.3P NX uses a 48 hp diesel engine. Loadmac models feature 56 hp Hatz diesel engines.
Mounting: Compatible with most commercial trucks rated at 26,000 lbs GVWR or higher.
Terrain Capability: All-wheel drive and large tires allow operation on challenging terrain, with some models capable of traversing grades up to 30%.
Steering Options: Some models offer 4-way steering for maneuvering long loads in tight spaces.
Major Manufacturers and Brands
MOFFETT (Hiab): The global leader in truck-mounted forklifts, with over 100,000 units produced. Manufactured in Dundalk, Ireland, and available in 40 countries. Offers a complete electric range including the E4 NX, E5 NX (2,500 kg capacity, world's first electric with moving mast), and E8 NX (3,500 kg capacity).
PRINCETON (Hiab): Supplements Hiab's offering in the US market. Princeton and Moffett now share the same frame design.
Manitou (TMT Series): Features a telescopic boom with lift capacities from 5,512 to 5,952 lbs. Available in versions for industrial use, off-road with stabilizers, and poultry operations. Offers 4-way steering option.
PALFINGER: Offers truck-mounted forklifts with side panel controls to minimize operator climbing, reducing the risk of slipping or falling.
Loadmac: UK-based specialist offering compact lifting solutions, with models like the Loadmac 825.4 (4-way steering, 12 ft lift height).
Other Players: Terberg, Hol-Mac Corporation, Sellick Equipment, Western.
Key Applications and Industries
Construction: Unloading lumber, bricks, roofing shingles, and drywall at hard-to-reach or confined job sites.
Agriculture: Delivering fertilizers, animal feed, and fencing supplies across farm properties.
Recycling: Offloading incoming material and delivering baled paper, plastic, and metal waste.
Warehouses and Distribution Centers: Unloading pallets of drums, crates, and stacked boxes.
Gas/LPG: Transporting potentially flammable containers safely with excellent operator visibility.
Dockyards: Moving bulky containers from truck body to dockside storage.
Cost and Market Overview
The global truck-mounted forklift market is estimated at $430 million to $470 million in 2025, with a 2-3% CAGR, reaching $480 million to $540 million by 2030. North America dominates with 45-55% market share, driven by U.S. logistics demand. Construction accounts for 70-75% of applications, followed by agriculture (14-16%).
Pricing:
New Units: $18,000 to $45,000 depending on capacity and brand.
Used Units: $8,000 to $20,000.
Example: A new Loadmac truck-mounted forklift is listed at $80,900 to $89,900.
Rental Rates: Daily ($150-$500), weekly ($600-$1,500), monthly ($1,500-$4,000).
Operator Requirements
Operating a truck-mounted forklift requires OSHA certification under 29 CFR 1910.178. Training includes formal instruction on stability, load dynamics, and pre-operation inspection, followed by hands-on evaluation specific to the equipment type. Re-evaluation is required every three years or after any incident.
The bottom line: A truck-mounted forklift is a specialized material handling tool that transforms a delivery truck into a self-sufficient logistics hub. It eliminates the need for separate unloading equipment, reduces labor costs, and enables deliveries to sites without loading docks. While the upfront investment is significant, the productivity gains for construction, agriculture, and last-mile delivery operations typically justify the cost. Major manufacturers include MOFFETT, PRINCETON, Manitou, and PALFINGER, with capacities ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 lbs. Units can be dismounted and ready to unload in under one minute, and electric models are increasingly available for zero-emission, quiet operation.