The hydraulic pump supplies oil to a hydraulic lifting ram, the system lifts the drum up when the handle is pumped back and forth. A hand-operated lowering valve mounted on the top of the lifter provides precise control when a drum needs to be lowered down onto a pallet or the floor. We assemble all our hydraulic circuits by hand to ensure that every system is clean, reliable and long-lasting.

Industrial drums come in many different shapes and sizes depending on the industry. It is important that drum lifters can handle all the most common drums found in the workplace. Laser-cut from stainless steel, our tried and tested universal drum gripper allows you to connect the drum lifter to a huge range of drum types.

13-55 gallon (50-220 liters) Drum sizes

Drums can vary in height depending on their size. This means it is important to choose a drum lifter that can accept not only the drums you use today but also the drums you may need to handle in the future. With our unique quick-change rack, you can adjust the position of the drum catch to accommodate drums of different heights. In a matter of seconds move the catch down for shorter drums and up for taller drums.

15”-39.37” (380-1000mm) Drum height

As with our other drum lifters, you can use this model with a wide variety of drum types and sizes, which is useful if you handle different types of drums daily. For details about the drums with which this product is compatible, please see the drum suitability document below. If the drums you use aren’t in the specification, contact us and we can offer advice and guidance.

Highly maneuverable

Counterbalance drum lifters contain metal shot in the rear of the unit to offset the weight of the heavy drum at the front. Due to the increased weight of a counterbalanced truck versus a straddle drum lifter, steering is essential. The rear steering makes pushing and pulling this drum lifter easy for operators of all sizes providing the floor is flat and level. 

6.25” (160mm) Polyurethane tires

ATEX certified for gas and dust zones

We provide a fully certified 'Ex' rated drum lifter for use in flammable and explosive areas. These models utilize anti-static and conductive components to ensure safety and conformity. We also ensure full electrical continuity throughout the machine to dissipate static charges should they occur. Our ATEX Counterbalanced Drum Lifter is suitable for use in classified zones 1, 2, 21, and 22.

'Ex' Rated model

We can offer this model with an increased Safe Working Load (SWL) of 771 lb. (350kg), providing greater lifting capacity for heavier drums or materials. The 771 lb. (350kg) version operates in the same manner as the standard model, with the primary difference being an additional 9.8” (250mm) in length. This additional length moves the counterweight further away from the heavy drum allowing us to increase the rated capacity of the lifter. 

We can upgrade this model using a “long reach” (LR) rack assembly. This allows operators to place drums further in front of the lifter, making it better suited for loading storage cabinets, conveyors and booths. We can customise the amount of forward reach based on your exact needs.

We offer a 304-grade stainless-steel version of this lifter, specifically engineered for use in clean manufacturing environments. Renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance and durability, 304-grade stainless steel is ideal for food processing, pharmaceuticals, and chemical production industries. These versions of our Counterbalance Drum Lifter feature nickel/chrome-plated hydraulic rams for protection against corrosion. The aluminum hydraulic pump is encased in stainless steel and protected by a PVC gaiter to prevent dirt and debris ingress.

We can offer two taller models that utilize longer lifting rams, providing a lift stroke of either 29.9” or 49.6” (760mm or 1260mm) versus the standard 19.7”. (500mm). These enhanced lifting capabilities allow operators to easily place drums onto high containment pallets and elevated storage areas, or into machines. The guaranteed lifting clearance beneath the drum is slightly less than the lifting stroke and therefore it is always best to get in touch, to allow a member of our team to recommend the most suitable model for your application.

Our integrated weighing system has an accuracy of +/- 3.5 oz. (0.1kg) This system streamlines operations by weighing drums whilst lifting them, eliminating the need for separate floor scales. This system improves efficiency and helps operators identify over or under filled drums early, ensuring smoother workflows and enhanced quality control.

We can offer this drum lifter with an electric-hydraulic lift system, designed to make the lifting of heavy drums effortless. The electric system further reduces the physical effort required to move drums. This feature is especially valuable for high-frequency drum handling operations, where enhancing productivity is crucial. The push-button functionality further improves ergonomics when choosing this model.

Battery-powered system

We design and manufacture a range of custom attachments and tools to tackle challenging drum-lifting scenarios. Whether it's large screw-top drums typically used for transporting olives and pickles, or custom plastic drums designed for the pharmaceutical industry, we are available to offer assistance. Contact us