What is a Moffett?

Understanding Moffett Forklifts

A Moffett is a versatile, portable forklift designed to mount onto the back of a truck or trailer equipped with a specialized forklift mounting kit. These compact yet powerful machines offer all-wheel drive (AWD) capabilities and are equipped with pneumatic tires, making them ideal for rough terrain. Lightweight and mobile, Moffett forklifts are perfect for unloading cargo directly at delivery sites, saving time and increasing efficiency.

What is a Moffett Mounty?

The Moffett Mounty is the brand that pioneered the concept of the truck-mounted forklift. Introduced in 1986 with the groundbreaking Moffett M5000 model, the Mounty revolutionized material handling in industries like building materials and lumber. Its diesel-powered engine, three-wheel design, and high flotation pneumatic tires set a new standard for mobile delivery solutions. Today, Moffett Mounty remains the dominant brand in the truck-mounted forklift industry.

Key Features of Moffett Forklifts

• Compact, lightweight design for easy transport.
• All-wheel drive (AWD) for navigating rough terrain.
• Pneumatic tires for improved flotation and stability.
• Lifting capacities ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 lbs.
• 4-way directional capabilities for maneuvering in tight spaces.

The Evolution of Moffett Forklifts

The Moffett forklift has undergone significant changes since its inception. These improvements reflect advancements in technology, emission standards, and industry needs, making Moffett a leader in the material handling sector.

The Early Years (1986–2006)

The first generation of Moffett forklifts featured a boxy design with all-steel body panels. Models such as the M5000 and M5500 became staples in industries requiring reliable, rugged performance. The 4-way directional feature, denoted by “4W” in model names, provided unparalleled maneuverability, while the number following the “M” indicated the lifting capacity in pounds. Other notable models from this era include the M4000E, M4500, and M8000.

The New Body Style (2006–2014)

In 2006, Moffett introduced a more rounded body style with fiberglass components, such as the hood and back door. These updates improved the forklift’s aesthetics and operator comfort, with a larger operator station becoming standard. This generation utilized Kubota diesel engines, renowned for their durability and efficiency. Models like the M50, M55, and M70 became popular, with lifting capacities ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 lbs. The M55.4 and M70.4 models included the 4-way directional option, enhancing their utility in tight or cluttered work environments.

Modern Innovations (2015–Present)

In 2015, new emission regulations prompted Moffett to transition from Kubota to Kohler diesel engines. Alongside this change, the company updated its model naming conventions. For example:

• The M55 became the M8 55.3, with the 4-way directional version designated as the M8 55.4.
• The M70 transitioned to the M8 70.3 and its 4-way counterpart, the M8 70.4.

These advancements reflect Moffett‘s commitment to meeting evolving industry standards while maintaining the high performance and reliability customers expect.

The Impact of Moffett Forklifts on Material Handling

Moffett forklifts have revolutionized how industries handle materials. By offering a portable solution that combines power, mobility, and efficiency, these machines have become indispensable for construction, agriculture, and logistics sectors. Whether traversing rough terrain or maneuvering through confined spaces, Moffett Mounty forklifts excel in a variety of challenging environments.

The Rise of Truck-Mounted Forklifts

Truck-mounted forklifts, including Moffett models, have gained widespread popularity due to their ability to be transported alongside cargo. This feature eliminates the need for additional equipment at the delivery site, reducing costs and streamlining operations.

Comparing Moffett to Other Brands

While Moffett leads the market, brands like Princeton and Loadmac also offer competitive options. Each brand brings unique features to the table, but Moffett‘s long history of innovation and reliability keeps it ahead of the competition.

Final Thoughts

From its groundbreaking beginnings in 1986 to its modern innovations, Moffett remains a trailblazer in the forklift industry. Its truck-mounted forklifts provide unparalleled efficiency, durability, and versatility, making them essential for industries requiring reliable material handling solutions. As the pioneer of the truck-mounted forklift, Moffett Mounty continues to set the standard for performance and innovation in the field.