Buying a Cargo Van Ramp
Liftgate vs. Cargo Van Ramp: Which Is Better for Your Cargo Van?
25
Jun
Jun
When you’re running a business from a van—whether you’re delivering goods, fixing HVAC systems, or managing a mobile fleet—loading and unloading heavy equipment efficiently is key. Two popular commercial van loading solutions are liftgates and cargo van ramps. But which one is right for your business?
If you’re comparing a cargo van ramp vs. liftgate, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down how each works, their pros and cons, and why ramps are often the better, more cost-effective choice—especially for small businesses, contractors, and commercial van upfitters.
What Is a Liftgate and How Does It Work?
A liftgate is a mechanical platform attached to the back of a vehicle that raises and lowers cargo from ground level to the vehicle’s cargo area using a hydraulic system. It’s typically seen on box trucks but can be installed on cargo vans as well.
There are different types of liftgates—tuck-under, railgate, and cantilever—but they all serve the same function: reducing manual lifting by mechanizing the loading process.
What Is a Cargo Van Ramp?
A folding cargo van ramp is a simple mechanical (no electronics or hydraulics)folding solution that allows you to roll equipment, carts, or packages. Cargo van ramps are mounted to the interior of the van, folding up for easy storage.
Ramps are especially popular with businesses that need a lightweight, reliable, and low-maintenance option.
Comparing Liftgates vs. Cargo Van Ramps
Let’s take a look at the key differences between a liftgate for vans and a folding van ramp so you can make an informed decision.
1. Cost
- Liftgate: Installing a liftgate can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000+, including labor. Repairs and hydraulic maintenance add ongoing costs.
- Cargo Van Ramp: A high-quality ramp typically costs $1,900 to $3,500, with minimal ongoing maintenance.
Winner: Ramp!
2. Installation
- Liftgate: Requires professional installation and modification of the van’s electrical and structural systems.
- Cargo Van Ramp: Most ramps are bolt-on and are often installed by the van owner without a shop visit.
Winner: Ramp!
3. Weight and Maintenance
- Liftgate: Adds significant weight to your vehicle (which can reduce fuel economy), and requires routine maintenance on hydraulics.
- Cargo Van Ramp: Lightweight aluminum construction with limited maintenance required.
Winner: Ramp!
4. Ease of Use
- Liftgate: Requires time to lower, lift, and secure cargo; it’s automated but not necessarily faster.
- Cargo Van Ramp: Deploys quickly and allows fast, continuous loading with dollies, carts, or equipment.
Winner: Ramp!
5. Payload Impact
- Liftgate: Reduces usable payload due to added system weight.
- Cargo Van Ramp: Lightweight design means you can carry more cargo.
Winner: Ramp!
6. Breakdown Risk
- Liftgate: Hydraulic systems can fail, leaving you stuck at a job site or losing time on deliveries.
- Cargo Van Ramp: Mechanical failure is limited to parts that add convenience to the ramp, but don’t inhibit the use of the ramp..
Winner: Can you guess? Ramp!
So, When Is a Liftgate Useful?
To be fair, there are cases where a liftgate for vans makes sense:
- You’re regularly lifting extremely heavy or bulky loads that can’t be managed with a cart.
- Your van carries items on pallets, requiring a level surface.
- You have employees who cannot push loads up an incline.
But these use cases are more common in box trucks or larger delivery vehicles, where liftgates are more appropriate.
Why Ramps Are Ideal for Cargo Vans
For most cargo vans, especially in the service or delivery industries, ramps are a more practical and affordable option.
Ramps Are Perfect for:
- HVAC and plumbing contractors rolling tool carts and compressors
- Delivery drivers moving cases of beverages, boxes, or equipment
- Cleaning services and landscaping companies
- Fleet managers looking to outfit multiple vans affordably
- Mobile services like detailing, IT, or pest control
The truth is: if you can roll it, you can ramp it.
Ramps Work for Box Trucks Too
While liftgates dominate in the box truck world, primarily because the higher load height of 34” to 40” would require a longer ramp, more companies are switching to ramps for box trucks as well. Why?
- Lighter and cheaper than liftgates
- Less downtime due to mechanical issues
- No power required, making them ideal for dry vans or trucks without auxiliary batteries
A commercial van loading solution doesn’t need to be complicated—ramps get the job done.
Choosing the Right Cargo Van Ramp
When selecting a ramp, consider:
- Length & Slope: Longer ramps provide gentler slopes but require more storage space.
- Ramp Width: Make sure it fits your widest equipment.
- Weight Capacity: Most ramps can handle 1,000–2,500 lbs.
- Mounting Style: Portable, swing-away, or permanently attached.
Explore the full range of ramps at CargoVanRamps.com to find one built for your vehicle.
Final Verdict: Cargo Van Ramp vs Liftgate
If you need reliability, lower cost, and faster operation, cargo van ramps are the superior solution for most van-based businesses.
Liftgates have their place—but unless you’re moving extreme weight or operating a box truck with palletized freight, a cargo van ramp offers:
- Lower costs
- Easier installation
- Fewer repairs
- Faster loading
- Greater versatility
Still on the fence? Talk to the team at Cargo Van Ramp—we’ll help you evaluate your workflow and recommend the perfect cargo van lift option for your fleet.
