What is a Moffett?
The cost-effective forklift alternative
A Moffett is a specialised type of forklift, mounted on the back of a lorry, that provides a versatile solution for loading and unloading goods. The device allows businesses to sidestep the need for a dedicated onsite forklift. With traditional forklifts requiring storage space and regular upkeep (along with trained operators), a Moffett forklift offers a far more flexible and cost-effective alternative. It’s especially useful for businesses that only need intermittent forklift capabilities or lack the infrastructure to house a conventional forklift.
The Moffett’s truck-mounted design means it’s easy to transport along with the delivery vehicle, making the whole process far more efficient. When not in use, a Moffett doesn’t occupy any cargo space on the lorry, allowing the vehicle to carry its full capacity of goods. Providing the driver with the ability to load and unload goods independently, Moffetts remove the downtime associated with waiting for onsite forklifts or operators, streamlining operations and reducing costs as a result.
What can a Moffett lift?
Moffetts are remarkably versatile machines capable of handling a wide variety of goods. They’re equipped with large, durable forks that can lift palletised items such as construction materials, large bags of agricultural products, machinery and even event equipment. Their flexibility extends to their operational environments, with Moffetts working well both indoors and outdoors, making them a handy option everywhere from warehouses to open fields.
One of the key features of Moffetts is their all-wheel drive capability which allows them to work on almost any surface, including rough and uneven terrain. From muddy construction sites to narrow urban alleys, a Moffett will handle the job safely and efficiently. Their compact size and exceptional manoeuvrability mean they can operate in tight spaces where larger, traditional forklifts might struggle. Despite their small footprint, however, Moffetts pack a significant punch in terms of power and performance, able to handle even the most demanding industrial and commercial tasks with relative ease.
How much will a Moffett lift?
The question on everybody’s lips! Their lifting capacity will vary, of course, depending on the model and its specific design. In general, however, they’re capable of handling loads ranging from 1,500 kg to 3,500 kg. Most Moffetts can lift loads to a height of up to 3.5 metres, providing ample reach for standard loading and unloading operations.
The 4-way mode available on some models adds another layer of flexibility, allowing them to manoeuvre in tight spaces even when transporting wide loads. This feature is particularly useful for deliveries in urban areas, where space constraints and regulatory requirements for noise and emissions need to be met. With Moffetts designed to comply with a wide range of environmental standards, they allow businesses to operate in urban and residential areas at any time of the day or night without causing disturbances.
What is the difference between a Moffett and a forklift?
While both Moffetts and traditional forklifts are designed to lift and move goods, several key characteristics set them apart. A conventional forklift is equipped with two forks that can be raised and lowered to lift and transport goods. It typically operates in a warehouse or industrial site and needs a dedicated space for operation and maintenance. Forklifts also use a counterweight at the back to balance the load being lifted. As necessary as this counterweight may be, it can result in instability on uneven surfaces and often requires careful handling to avoid tipping the machine over.
In contrast, a Moffett is far more compact and lightweight, designed for greater flexibility and portability. As a truck-mounted forklift, it can be easily transported to almost any site you like. Beyond its operational convenience, however, one of the main differences that separates a Moffett from a traditional forklift is its stability mechanism.
Moffetts are equipped with hydraulic stabilisers that extend to the ground, providing improved stability when lifting heavy loads. This design allows them to operate safely on various terrains, including rough surfaces, where traditional forklifts might struggle. Its hydraulic stabilisers keep loads stable and secure, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety.
This type of forklift also features a more sophisticated lifting mechanism compared to traditional counterbalance forklifts. The mast can extend forward, supported by its hydraulic stabilisers, and then retract to keep the load low to the ground during transport. This design lets them lift heavier weights more safely and efficiently than traditional forklifts—which rely on counterweights that can become ineffective if the load exceeds the maximum rating. In short, Moffetts are a quick and easy option, especially for businesses that don’t have dedicated warehouse infrastructure.
For more specific information about Moffetts and how they can benefit your business, contact X2 (UK) here.