A truck-mounted forklift, also known as a piggyback forklift, TMFL (Truck-Mounted Forklift), or all-terrain forklift, is a compact, self-propelled forklift designed to attach securely to the rear of a delivery truck or trailer. It travels with the vehicle and detaches at the delivery site, allowing drivers to unload cargo without needing a separate forklift or loading dock. These units can be dismounted and ready to deliver loads in under 60 seconds.
How a Truck-Mounted Forklift Works
The forklift is secured to the rear of a truck or trailer using a pre-installed carrier system with hooks, chains, or latches. Once the delivery truck arrives at the destination, the forklift is dismounted from the carrier under its own power. After the delivery is complete, the forklift is driven back onto the truck and secured for transport.
The design allows the forklift to be carried on almost any truck or trailer without taking up valuable load space on the truck bed itself.
Key Features and Specifications
Feature Typical Specification
Lift Capacity 3,000 – 8,000 lbs (up to 3,500 kg)
Weight 3,500 – 7,700 lbs
Engine Diesel (Tier 4 Final compliant) or Electric (Lithium-ion)
Drive Three-wheel drive (3WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
Steering Standard or 4-way steering for long loads
Lift Height 87 – 124 inches (7.25 – 10.3 ft)
Overhang 46 – 64 inches (from truck rear)
Ground Clearance 8+ inches
Example Specifications (MOFFETT M4 45.3P):
Capacity: 4,500 lbs
Weight: 4,420 lbs
Overhang: 52 inches
Lift Height: 120 inches (10 ft)
Engine: 18kW diesel
Major Manufacturers
MOFFETT (Hiab) is the global leader in truck-mounted forklifts, producing the world's first fully functional unit in 1986. Today, MOFFETT offers a wide selection of models including:
M4 NX / M5 NX Series: Mid-capacity models balancing lifting performance and weight efficiency
M8 / M9 Series: Higher-capacity units for more demanding loads (up to 8,000 lbs)
eSeries / E-NX: Battery-powered electric models ideal for zero-emission zones
LR Models: Lighter, agile designs for rapid deployment
PRINCETON (PiggyBack®) is an industry leader in North America, featuring the EZ Hitch® mounting system. Models include the PB36.1 (3,600 lb capacity), PB55.3+ (5,500 lb capacity), and D45.2X TurfMate (4,500 lb capacity with zero-turn capability).
PALFINGER offers a comprehensive range including side-seat (FLS) and middle-seat (FLM) models. The FLM 25 delivers 2,500kg capacity with a low dead weight under 2,000kg. Features include 180° steering angle, 4-way steering for long loads, and ground control functions for safe mounting/dismounting.
Key Features and Technologies
Electric Models: MOFFETT eSeries and Palfinger electric variants are powered by lithium-ion batteries, producing zero exhaust fumes and operating quietly—ideal for urban areas and nighttime deliveries.
4-Way Steering: Allows the forklift to drive sideways, facilitating maneuvering of long loads such as timber, steel, and pipes in tight spaces.
One-Side Offloading: Advanced models feature pantograph reach systems or telescopic forks that allow unloading from one side of the truck, eliminating the need to reposition the vehicle.
Ground Assist Functions: Controls mounted on the side of the machine allow operators to mount or dismount the forklift while standing safely on the ground, reducing climbing risks.
Telematics Connectivity: Systems like Palfinger's Connected plus+ enable fleet managers to receive real-time data, track location, and document charging processes.
Applications and Industries
Industry Typical Uses
Construction Unloading lumber, bricks, roofing shingles, drywall in confined spaces
Agriculture Delivering fertilizers, animal feed, fencing supplies across farm properties
Beverage Distribution Fast, efficient deliveries without spilling, especially with quiet electric models
Recycling Offloading incoming material and delivering baled paper, plastic, metal waste
Warehousing/Distribution Unloading pallets of drums, crates, and stacked boxes
Gas/LPG Transporting flammable containers safely with excellent all-round visibility
Dockyards Moving bulky containers from truck body to dockside storage
Advantages of Truck-Mounted Forklifts
Eliminates Need for Onsite Forklifts – Customers without loading docks or forklifts can still receive deliveries.
Saves Load Space – Mounts at the rear of the truck without taking up cargo space.
Fast Deployment – Ready to work in under 60 seconds.
All-Terrain Capability – Three-wheel or all-wheel drive with differential locks for navigating mud, slopes, and rough terrain.
Compact and Maneuverable – Can access tight spaces, congested construction sites, and narrow urban streets.
Self-Sufficient – Driver can independently load and unload without waiting for assistance.
The Bottom Line
A truck-mounted forklift is a compact, self-loading forklift that attaches to the rear of a delivery truck, allowing drivers to unload cargo at sites without loading docks or onsite forklifts. Leading manufacturers include MOFFETT (Hiab), PRINCETON (PiggyBack®), and PALFINGER, offering capacities from 3,000 to 8,000 lbs. The technology is rapidly evolving with electric models featuring lithium-ion batteries for zero-emission, quiet operation, and advanced features like 4-way steering, one-side offloading, and telematics integration. These machines are essential for construction, agriculture, beverage distribution, recycling, and any industry facing last-mile delivery challenges.