12 Freight Elevator Types and How to Choose One

Release time : August 28 2025

When it comes to keeping a business running smoothly, few things are as crucial as moving goods efficiently—especially in commercial buildings where floors stack up and time is money. That's where freight elevators come in. Whether you're running a warehouse, a manufacturing plant, or a busy retail space, the right freight elevator can turn a chaotic logistics nightmare into a well-oiled machine. But here's the thing: not all freight elevators are created equal. From heavy-duty machines hauling cars to compact lifts moving pallets, there's a type for every need. And to get it right, you'll want to work with a freight lift supplier who understands the ins and outs of different industries—because the best solutions aren't one-size-fits-all. Let's dive into the 12 most common types of freight elevators and how to pick the perfect one for your space.

12 Types of Freight Elevators You Should Know

1. Traction Freight Elevators

Think of traction freight elevators as the workhorses of tall buildings. They use steel ropes (or belts) and counterweights to move the car up and down, kind of like a pulley system. This design makes them super energy-efficient because the counterweight balances the load, so the motor doesn't have to work as hard. They're great for buildings with multiple floors—like high-rise warehouses or logistics centers—since they can reach speeds up to 500 feet per minute. The downside? They need a machine room at the top (or sometimes the bottom) of the shaft, which takes up space. But if you're moving a lot of goods in a tall building, this is often the go-to choice.

Best for: Large warehouses, distribution centers, and commercial buildings with 4+ floors.

2. Hydraulic Freight Elevators

Hydraulic freight elevators are the strong, steady types—perfect for low-rise buildings. Instead of ropes, they use a hydraulic piston to lift the car. Picture a giant syringe pushing the elevator up: when fluid is pumped into the piston, it rises; when it's released, it lowers. These elevators are known for handling heavy loads (we're talking up to 100,000 pounds!) and moving smoothly, which is great for fragile goods. They don't need a machine room either—just a small hydraulic unit nearby. The catch? They're slower than traction elevators (usually maxing out at 150 feet per minute) and work best for 2-3 floors. If you're running a small factory or a local warehouse with low-rise storage, this might be your match.

Best for: Small warehouses, manufacturing plants, and commercial buildings with 1-3 floors.

3. Machine Room-Less (MRL) Freight Elevators

Space is a hot commodity in urban commercial buildings, right? That's where MRL freight elevators shine. As the name suggests, they skip the traditional machine room, tucking the motor and controls into the shaft itself. This saves precious square footage—no more dedicating a whole room to elevator equipment. They're quieter than older models too, which is a plus if your building has offices or customer areas nearby. MRL elevators use traction technology, so they're energy-efficient, but they do have a lower weight capacity than some hydraulic or standard traction models (usually up to 15,000 pounds). If you're tight on space but still need reliable goods movement, this is a smart pick.

Best for: Urban commercial buildings, retail spaces, and mid-rise warehouses with limited square footage.

4. Industrial Freight Elevators

Industrial settings are tough—dust, debris, heavy vibrations, and non-stop use. That's why industrial freight elevators are built like tanks. They're made with rugged materials (think thick steel frames, reinforced doors) and designed to handle harsh conditions. Some even come with features like waterproof buttons, explosion-proof motors, or heat-resistant components for factories dealing with high temperatures. These elevators aren't pretty, but they're reliable. They can carry loads from 5,000 to 50,000 pounds and are often customized to fit odd-shaped goods, like machinery parts or raw materials. If your day involves moving heavy, messy, or oversized items in a tough environment, this is your elevator.

Best for: Manufacturing plants, construction sites, mining facilities, and heavy-industry warehouses.

5. Commercial Freight Elevators

Not all commercial spaces need industrial-grade toughness. Commercial freight elevators are the "middle ground" option—built for moderate use and medium loads (typically 2,000 to 10,000 pounds). They're common in places like shopping malls (moving inventory from basements to stores), hotels (hauling linens and supplies), or office buildings (transporting furniture and equipment). What makes them stand out? They often blend in with the building's design—less "industrial" and more "functional but not eyesore." Some even have features like intercoms or basic lighting, since they might occasionally carry people (though they're still primarily for goods). If your space is more "customer-facing" but still needs regular goods movement, this is a solid choice.

Best for: Shopping malls, hotels, office buildings, and retail stores with moderate freight needs.

6. Heavy-Duty Freight Elevators

Ever seen a car being lifted to the second floor of a dealership? Or a construction crane part being moved up 10 stories? That's heavy-duty freight elevators at work. These are the heavyweights of the elevator world, designed to carry loads from 20,000 pounds all the way up to 200,000 pounds or more. They use specialized hydraulic or traction systems with extra-strong cables, motors, and frames. Some even have reinforced floors and oversized doors to fit massive items like vehicles, industrial machinery, or large HVAC units. They're slow (speed isn't the priority here) but incredibly powerful. If your business involves moving truly massive objects, don't skimp—go heavy-duty.

Best for: Car dealerships, construction sites, airport cargo areas, and manufacturing plants with oversized equipment.

7. Automated Freight Elevators

In today's world of automation, why should elevators be left behind? Automated freight elevators integrate with your existing logistics systems—think conveyor belts, warehouse management software, or even robots. They can be programmed to stop at specific floors, open/close doors automatically, and even send alerts when maintenance is needed. No more waiting for a operator to hit buttons—these lifts run on autopilot. They're a game-changer for high-volume spaces like e-commerce warehouses, where every second counts. Some models even have sensors to prevent overloading or detect obstacles in the shaft. If you're looking to streamline operations and cut down on manual labor, automated is the way to go.

Best for: E-commerce fulfillment centers, distribution hubs, and large-scale retail warehouses with high throughput.

8. Vehicle Elevators (Car Lifts)

Cars, trucks, golf carts—some "freight" has wheels. Vehicle elevators (or car lifts) are designed specifically to move wheeled vehicles between floors. They're common in parking garages with limited space (stacking cars vertically), car dealerships (showcasing vehicles on upper floors), or auto repair shops (lifting cars for service). These elevators have wide, flat platforms, strong ramps, and safety features like wheel locks and anti-slip surfaces. Some can handle a single car, while others (like those in airports) can carry small trucks or delivery vans. If your business revolves around moving vehicles, this isn't just an elevator—it's a critical part of your operation.

Best for: Car dealerships, parking garages, auto repair shops, and airport cargo facilities.

9. Pallet Elevators

For small to medium-sized businesses, moving pallets of goods doesn't require a massive elevator. Pallet elevators are compact, affordable, and designed for one job: lifting pallets (and only pallets) between a few floors. They're usually small—just big enough to fit a standard pallet (48x40 inches)—and have simple controls, so almost anyone on staff can operate them. Some are even portable, which is handy for temporary setups or events. They're not fast or fancy, but they get the job done for low-volume, low-weight needs (typically up to 5,000 pounds). Think local grocery stores restocking from basements, small workshops moving materials, or pop-up retail spaces with limited storage.

Best for: Small warehouses, grocery stores, retail backrooms, and workshops with palletized goods.

10. Material Lifts

Material lifts are the "lightweights" of the freight elevator family—but don't underestimate them. They're designed for moving small, lightweight items over short distances, like boxes, tools, or supplies. Unlike full-size elevators, they often have open platforms (no enclosed cab) and are operated manually or with simple push-button controls. You'll see them in places like retail stores (moving inventory from stockrooms to sales floors), offices (hauling files or equipment), or small restaurants (lifting food supplies from basements). They're affordable, easy to install, and take up minimal space. If you need to move small loads quickly and don't want to invest in a full elevator, a material lift is the practical choice.

Best for: Retail stores, offices, small restaurants, and workshops with lightweight, frequent material movement.

11. Scissor Lift Tables

Okay, scissor lift tables aren't technically "elevators" in the traditional sense—they don't move between floors. But they're so useful for on-the-ground freight handling that they deserve a spot on this list. These lifts use a folding, scissor-like mechanism to raise and lower heavy loads from the ground to waist height or higher. They're perfect for loading/unloading trucks, moving goods onto conveyor belts, or adjusting work surfaces in factories. Some are mobile (with wheels), while others are fixed in place. They come in various sizes, from small tabletop models to large platforms that can hold several thousand pounds. If your workflow involves a lot of bending, lifting, or transferring goods at ground level, a scissor lift table will save your team's backs and boost efficiency.

Best for: Loading docks, manufacturing lines, warehouses, and any workspace with ground-level material handling.

12. Custom Freight Elevators

Sometimes, off-the-shelf just won't cut it. Maybe you need an elevator that fits into an oddly shaped shaft, handles extremely hot or cold temperatures, or carries radioactive materials (yes, that's a thing). That's where custom freight elevators come in. A good freight lift supplier will work with you to design a lift tailored to your unique needs—whether it's extra-wide doors, explosion-proof components, or a system that integrates with specialized machinery. These elevators are more expensive and take longer to install, but they solve problems no standard model can. Think museums moving delicate artifacts, pharmaceutical facilities with strict cleanroom requirements, or construction sites with temporary, rugged setups. When your needs are one-of-a-kind, custom is the way to go.

Best for: Specialized industries, unique building layouts, and facilities with non-standard load or environmental requirements.

Quick Comparison: Key Features of Each Freight Elevator Type

Elevator Type	Typical Load Capacity	Best For Floors	Top Speed	Key Advantage
Traction Freight	5,000–50,000 lbs	4+ floors	200–500 ft/min	Energy-efficient for tall buildings
Hydraulic Freight	2,000–100,000 lbs	1–3 floors	50–150 ft/min	High load capacity, low maintenance
MRL Freight	2,000–15,000 lbs	2–8 floors	150–300 ft/min	Space-saving (no machine room)
Industrial Freight	5,000–50,000 lbs	Any (tough environments)	50–200 ft/min	Durable for harsh conditions
Commercial Freight	2,000–10,000 lbs	1–5 floors	100–200 ft/min	Blends with commercial spaces
Heavy-Duty Freight	20,000–200,000+ lbs	1–5 floors	30–100 ft/min	Hauls oversized/extreme loads
Automated Freight	5,000–20,000 lbs	Any (high throughput)	150–400 ft/min	Integrates with logistics systems
Vehicle Elevators	5,000–50,000 lbs	1–5 floors	50–150 ft/min	Designed for wheeled vehicles
Pallet Elevators	1,000–5,000 lbs	1–3 floors	30–100 ft/min	Compact, pallet-specific design
Material Lifts	500–2,000 lbs	1–2 floors (short distance)	20–50 ft/min	Affordable, lightweight use
Scissor Lift Tables	1,000–10,000 lbs	Ground-level only	N/A (vertical lift)	Ideal for on-the-ground handling
Custom Freight	Varies by design	Varies by design	Varies by design	Solves unique, non-standard needs

How to Choose the Right Freight Elevator: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Figure Out Your Load Capacity Needs

Start with the basics: what are you moving, and how heavy is it? A pallet of clothing will weigh a lot less than a pallet of bricks, and a car will weigh way more than both. Be honest about your maximum load—don't just guess. If you're not sure, check the weight of your heaviest regular shipment. Pro tip: Add 20% to that number to account for unexpected heavier loads (you'll thank us later). A freight lift supplier can help you narrow down options based on this number—too small, and you'll risk breakdowns; too big, and you'll waste money on unused capacity.

2. Measure Your Space (And We Mean Really Measure)

Freight elevators need space—specifically, a shaft (the vertical space they move through) and sometimes a machine room. Measure the available shaft width, depth, and height. If you're building new, you can design around the elevator, but if you're retrofitting, you'll be limited by existing structures. MRL elevators are great for tight spaces, but they still need a minimum shaft size. Also, think about door openings: will the elevator door line up with your loading docks or storage areas? Nothing's worse than installing an elevator only to realize the door is too narrow for your pallets.

3. Consider How Often You'll Use It

Is this elevator going to run once an hour, or once every five minutes? High-frequency use (like in a busy warehouse) demands a durable, heavy-duty model with a robust motor and wear-resistant parts. Low-frequency use (like a small retail store restocking weekly) might be fine with a simpler, more affordable option. Also, think about peak times—if you have morning and evening rush hours for deliveries, the elevator needs to handle back-to-back trips without overheating. A good freight lift supplier will ask about usage patterns to recommend a model that won't burn out.

4. Check Your Environment

Your elevator's environment matters more than you might think. If you're in a food processing plant with high humidity, you'll need rust-resistant components. If you're in a chemical factory, explosion-proof features are a must. Cold storage facilities? Look for elevators with heated motors to prevent freezing. Even dust can be an issue—industrial elevators often have sealed controls to keep debris out. Don't skip this step—using a standard elevator in a harsh environment is like using a bicycle in a snowstorm: it might work for a bit, but it won't last.

5. Don't Skimp on Safety

Safety isn't optional—especially when moving heavy goods. Look for elevators with features like overload sensors (they stop if you put too much weight), emergency stop buttons, door interlocks (doors won't open if the elevator isn't level), and backup power (so it doesn't get stuck during outages). Also, check local codes: most areas have strict safety standards for freight elevators, and non-compliance can lead to fines or shutdowns. A reputable freight lift supplier will know these codes inside out and ensure your elevator meets (or exceeds) them.

6. Budget for More Than Just the Purchase

The upfront cost is just the start. You'll also need to budget for installation (which can be pricey for complex models), maintenance (regular inspections, oil changes, part replacements), and repairs (because even the best elevators break down sometimes). Hydraulic elevators, for example, are often cheaper to buy but cost more to maintain over time (hydraulic fluid needs replacing). Traction elevators might have a higher upfront cost but lower maintenance. Ask your freight lift supplier for a total cost of ownership estimate—this will help you avoid sticker shock later.

7. Choose the Right Freight Lift Supplier

Last but never least: the supplier. You want someone with experience in your industry—if you're in manufacturing, a supplier who mostly does retail elevators might not get your needs. Ask for references, check reviews, and make sure they offer solid after-sales support (like 24/7 repair services). The best suppliers don't just sell you an elevator—they provide freight lift solutions tailored to your business. They'll visit your site, ask detailed questions, and walk you through every step from design to installation. This partnership is key to getting an elevator that works for you long-term.

Wrapping Up: Your Perfect Freight Elevator Awaits

Choosing a freight elevator isn't just about picking a box that moves up and down—it's about finding a tool that makes your business run smoother, safer, and more efficiently. With 12 types to choose from, there's no shortage of options, but the right one depends on your unique needs: load, space, usage, environment, and budget. And remember, you don't have to do it alone. A trusted freight lift supplier will be your guide, helping you navigate the choices and find freight lift solutions that fit like a glove. So take your time, measure twice, and invest in an elevator that will grow with your business. Your team, your customers, and your bottom line will thank you.