The Complete Guide to Moffett Forklifts

In the world of material-handling and last-mile delivery, few machines have reshaped efficiency the way Moffett truck-mounted forklifts have. Often called piggyback forklifts, these compact, high-performance units attach directly to the back of a truck or trailer, giving operators the ability to load and unload freight anywhere — without relying on a dock, yard crew, or onsite equipment. As 2025 closes out, demand for Moffett forklifts continues to surge across construction, building materials, agriculture, roofing supply, and industrial distribution.

This December, we’re taking a deep dive into why Moffett forklifts remain one of the most sought-after equipment categories on the market, what makes them unique, and how buyers can choose the right model for their fleet.

What Is a Moffett Forklift?

A Moffett forklift is a lightweight, truck-mounted forklift engineered for mobility, speed, and versatility. Instead of traveling on its own trailer, a Moffett “piggybacks” on the back of a delivery truck, allowing drivers to bring their own unloading equipment directly to the jobsite.

Key advantages include:

• Self-contained unloading — no dock or onsite forklift required
• Fast mounting/dismounting — typically under 60 seconds
• Compact footprint — ideal for tight residential or urban deliveries
• High maneuverability — excellent for uneven terrain
• Lower labor costs — one driver can handle the entire delivery

This combination of mobility and independence is why Moffett forklifts have become the standard for industries that deliver heavy, bulky, or palletized goods. 

Why Moffett Forklifts Are So Popular in 2025

The surge in demand isn’t random — it’s driven by real operational pressures.

1. Last-mile delivery is more demanding than ever - Construction sites, farms, residential neighborhoods, and remote locations rarely have unloading equipment available. A Moffett solves that problem instantly.
2. Labor shortages push companies toward self-sufficient delivery - With fewer yard workers and fewer dock crews, companies need equipment that reduces dependency on external labor.
3. Faster delivery = higher customer satisfaction - A driver with a Moffett can unload in minutes, not hours, keeping routes tight and customers happy.
4. Versatility across industries

Moffett forklifts are used in:

• Lumber and building materials
• Roofing supply
• Landscaping
• Agriculture
• Beverage distribution
• Industrial supply
• Portable storage
• Modular buildings

Few forklifts can serve such a wide range of environments.

Popular Moffett Models Buyers Search For

Certain models consistently dominate search traffic and buyer inquiries. These include:

• Moffett M55 - The most recognized truck-mounted forklift on the market. Known for its rugged design, high lift capacity, and excellent off-road performance.
• Moffett M50 - A versatile mid-range model ideal for construction, agriculture, and general delivery.
• Moffett M8 Series - Designed for heavy-duty applications with higher lift capacities and improved stability on rough terrain.
• Moffett M4 - A compact, lightweight option perfect for urban deliveries and tight spaces.

These models consistently appear in buyer searches such as:

• Moffett forklift for sale
• Moffett M55 price
• Truck-mounted forklift
• Piggyback forklift
• Moffett rental near me

Key Features That Set Moffett Forklifts Apart

1. Lightweight but powerful - Moffetts are engineered to be light enough for transport yet strong enough to lift heavy loads — often 5,000 to 8,000 lbs depending on the model.
2. All-terrain capability - Large pneumatic tires, high ground clearance, and powerful hydrostatic drive systems allow Moffetts to operate on: Mud, Gravel, Grass, Construction debris, Uneven surfaces
3. Quick-mount system - The signature Moffett mounting system allows the forklift to attach to the back of a truck in under a minute. This is a major competitive advantage over traditional forklifts.
4. 4-way steering (on select models) - Sideways travel makes it easy to maneuver long loads like lumber, siding, or steel beams.
5. Compact design - A Moffett can go places a standard forklift simply can’t — backyards, alleys, tight residential streets, and job sites with limited access.

Who Should Consider a Moffett Forklift?

A Moffett is ideal for any business that delivers heavy or palletized goods directly to customers. The most common buyers include:

• Building material suppliers
• Roofing companies
• Farm and feed suppliers
• Beverage distributors
• Portable storage companies
• Modular building manufacturers
• Landscaping supply companies
• Industrial equipment distributors

If your drivers frequently arrive at locations without unloading equipment, a Moffett is a game-changer.

Moffett Forklift vs. Traditional Forklift

A quick comparison helps clarify the value:

This is why Moffetts dominate industries where mobility matters more than warehouse-style lifting.

Maintenance Considerations

Moffetts are rugged, but like any forklift, they require routine care:

• Regular hydraulic inspections
• Tire checks (especially for off-road use)
• Engine and filter maintenance
• Mounting system inspection
• Lubrication of mast and carriage components

Because they operate outdoors and on rough terrain, preventive maintenance is essential.

Buying a Used Moffett: What to Look For

Used Moffetts are extremely popular because they hold their value and have long service lives. When evaluating a unit, buyers should check:

• Hours of operation
• Condition of tires
• Mast wear and chain condition
• Hydraulic leaks
• Engine performance
• Mounting kit compatibility
• 4-way steering functionality (if equipped)

A well-maintained Moffett can easily deliver years of reliable service.

Why Moffett Forklifts Will Stay in High Demand in 2026

As delivery expectations continue to rise, companies need equipment that makes drivers more independent and routes more efficient. Moffett forklifts solve real operational problems — and that’s why they remain one of the most searched and purchased forklift categories on the market.

With industries expanding, labor shortages continuing, and jobsite access becoming more challenging, the Moffett forklift’s combination of mobility, power, and versatility ensures it will remain a top choice well into 2026.