Best Pickup Truck Lifts for Lifting Gear on the Go
Choosing a reliable pickup truck lift can transform how you load heavy gear, generators, or hunting equipment. The following selections emphasize portability, range of motion, and robust lift capacity to handle a variety of loads. Below is a quick overview of the chosen products to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Capacity (lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rugcel 1500 lb Stretchable Receiver Hitch Mounted Hydraulic Swivel Pickup Truck Crane | RUGCEL WINCH | 1500 | Hitch crane with 360° rotation and three boom capacities |
| Larin TGL-500 Hitch Lift | LARIN | 500 | 12V motorized hitch lift for bed or ground level loading |
| SuperHandy Material Lift Winch Stacker | SuperHandy | 330 | Manual lift stacker with wheel mobility |
| Pismire 0.5T Folding Truck-Mounted Bed Crane | Pismire | 1100 (with 3500 lb winch) | Foldable jib crane with extended reach |
| VEVOR Electric Pickup Truck Crane | VEVOR | 1100 | Electric crane with 3500 lb winch and 360° rotation |
Rugcel 1500 Lb Hitch Crane With Swivel
The Rugcel Hitch Crane combines a telescoping boom with three adjustable lengths and a 360° rotating base, making it flexible for varied pickup truck layouts. Constructed with a double steel pipe design, it supports up to 1500 lb. The base can be disassembled for easier installation, and the full rotation allows precise positioning of loads from any direction. This model is especially useful for users who need a high-capacity lift in a compact shop or job site.
Larin TGL-500 Hitch Lift
The Larin TGL-500 is a heavy-duty 12V DC motorized hitch lift designed to level the deck plate with either the truck bed or the ground. It features a spacious deck and a standard 2″ receiver with multiple pin positions for different tailgate depths. A built-in limiting device helps align the lift with the bed, while dual safety outriggers improve stability during loading. It folds for travel and integrates with a Class III 2-inch hitch, providing a balance of strength and portability for pickup owners.
SuperHandy Material Lift Stacker
The SuperHandy Material Lift Stacker offers heavy-duty lifting in a compact unit, with a 330 lb capacity and 40″ maximum lift height. It functions as both a stacker and a hand truck, featuring swivel casters with solid PU wheels for stable driving in warehouses or loading docks. A manual winch minimizes operator fatigue, enabling safer lifting operations in environments lacking powered equipment. This versatility makes it a practical alternative to larger, more expensive forklifts for smaller loads.
Pismire 0.5T Folding Truck-Mounted Bed Crane
The Pismire 0.5T folding truck-mounted bed crane is designed for heavy loads with a 3,500 lb winch and a foldable boom. Its adjustable reach ranges from 46.06″ to 57.09″, and it offers three elevation settings from 45.27″ to 86.61″. The folding design simplifies storage when not in use, while the low-profile installation makes it compatible with most pickup bed configurations. This crane excels at loading generators, engines, and other equipment into a truck bed with a compact footprint.
VEVOR Electric Pickup Truck Crane
The VEVOR electric pickup truck crane combines a robust galvanized alloy frame with a 3,500 lb winch, enabling safe loading and unloading of generators, engines, and other equipment. It provides 360° rotation and three boom height adjustments from 43.3″ to 82.7″, offering versatile positioning while reducing the need for manual maneuvering. This model emphasizes a durable build and easy operation for demanding work sites or remote locations where powered lifting is advantageous.
Viking Solutions Hitch Game Hoist
The Viking Solutions Hitch Game Hoist is a portable, platform-based lifting system designed for loading game or heavy objects into a pickup. It uses a hand winch and a durable steel frame to lift up to 300 pounds, providing a practical solution for hunters and outdoor workers who need a reliable, lightweight hoist for occasional larger items. The system emphasizes durability and user-friendly operation in field conditions.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Capacity needs: Match the lift’s rated capacity to the heaviest item you expect to handle. Overloading can compromise safety and equipment longevity.
- Mounting compatibility: Check receiver size (2″ is common) and bed/truck compatibility. Folding or detachable designs improve portability for storage in limited spaces.
- Power source: Choose between manual, 12V DC, or electric winches. Electric models reduce effort but require power availability and wiring considerations.
- Range of motion: Look for 360° rotation, adjustable boom lengths, and multiple lift heights to reach over beds, tails, or tall loads.
- Mobility and storage: Consider wheeled bases or foldable arms for warehouse spaces or vehicle interiors where space is limited.
- Durability: Materials like galvanized steel and reinforced joints extend life in outdoor environments and high-use settings.
- Safety features: Outriggers, load-limiters, and locking pins help prevent accidental tipping and ensure stable operation during lifts.
- Installation effort: Some units require tools or professional mounting, especially higher-capacity cranes. Foldable or modular systems can simplify installation.
- Use-case diversity: If you need occasional hunting, construction, or generator loading, prioritize models offering both portability and sufficient lift for varied loads.
- Maintenance: Look for rust-resistant finishes and accessible components for easier upkeep and longer service life.