An elevator designed primarily for transporting goods, with a reinforced car structure, high load capacity, and doors configured for loading by hand truck, pallet truck, or forklift.
Full Definition
Freight elevators (goods lifts) are designed to carry loads rather than passengers, though attendants may accompany goods. Key design differences from passenger elevators include: rated load from 500 kg to 10,000 kg or more; car floor constructed of hardwood, steel chequerplate, or rubber-matted steel to resist forklift and pallet truck damage; vertical biparting doors or horizontal sliding doors providing full-width access; door sill flush with the landing floor to allow wheeled equipment to roll directly in; heavy-duty guide shoes tolerating eccentric loading; and reinforced buffer assemblies. EN 81-31 is the harmonised standard for goods-only lifts (not intended to carry persons); EN 81-20 applies when an attendant may accompany the load. Rated speed is typically 0.25–1.0 m/s; drive systems are hydraulic for low-rise applications (< 10 m) and traction for taller buildings. Car operating panel is simplified — typically only door open/close and floor selection buttons accessible to an attendant. Overload protection is mandatory; a load-weighing device is typically fitted to prevent overloading.
