The Complete Guide to Choosing a Mortuary Lift Company
Choosing the Right Mortuary Lift: Safety, Efficiency, and Value
Mortuary Lift Company specializes in high-quality casket and body lifts designed specifically for funeral homes, morgues, and hospitals. If you're searching for reliable mortuary lift equipment, here's what you need to know:
| Top Mortuary Lift Providers | Signature Products | Experience | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mortuary Lift Company | Ultimate 1000 Lift™, Stepper™, Tug-Along™ | 50+ years | All-in-One Lifting™ system, custom track options |
| FlorLIFT of New Jersey | Casket lifts, Platform lifts | Since 1954 | All-steel construction, 10,000+ units in service |
| Link | Mortuary deck systems | 20+ years | Double deck systems, safety-focused design |
| Sampson | "One-Man" Hydraulic Body Lifter | Established | Manual hydraulic operation |
When selecting a mortuary lift provider, funeral professionals face important decisions that impact daily operations, staff safety, and overall efficiency. The right equipment not only prevents workplace injuries but also streamlines the handling of remains with dignity and respect.
Modern mortuary lifts have evolved significantly from basic manual systems to sophisticated electric solutions that can handle increasingly complex needs, including bariatric cases weighing 600+ pounds.
Why investing in quality lifting equipment matters:
- Prevents staff injuries and reduces workers' compensation claims
- Improves operational efficiency by enabling single-operator handling
- Demonstrates respect for the deceased through secure, dignified transport
- Reduces long-term costs despite higher initial investment
- Customizable solutions adapt to your specific facility layout
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level supplier of mortuary coolers and lifting equipment with extensive experience helping funeral directors select the right Mortuary Lift Company products for their specific operational needs. My expertise comes from years of working with funeral homes to optimize their preparation rooms with efficient, reliable equipment.
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Mortuary Lift Company: History & Flagship Products
The Mortuary Lift Company story is one that spans generations in the funeral industry—a half-century legacy that began with influences from FlorLIFT back in 1954. What started as a mission to solve everyday challenges for funeral professionals has blossomed into a trusted name that funeral homes, morgues, and hospitals worldwide rely on daily.
I've visited funeral homes that still have their original Mortuary Lift Company equipment from decades ago—still functioning perfectly. That's not an accident. Their flagship ULTIMATE 1000 Lift™ has been a best-seller for over 50 years because it simply works, day in and day out. The company has perfected this workhorse through decades of listening to the people who use it most.
But they didn't stop there. Recognizing that funeral professionals face unique challenges beyond the prep room, they developed the Stepper™ electric stair climbing system—a brilliant solution that essentially acts as a second pair of hands when navigating stairs with remains. Their Tug-Along™ casket and gurney winch revolutionized vehicle loading, turning what was once a two or three-person job into something manageable for a single operator.
What impresses me most about these innovations is how they're born from real-world funeral home needs. These aren't generic industrial lifts repurposed for funeral homes—they're purpose-built from the ground up with the dignity of the deceased and safety of staff as non-negotiable priorities.
What Sets Mortuary Lift Company Apart
The Mortuary Lift Company stands apart through what they call their All-in-One Lifting™ approach. While others in the industry offer piecemeal solutions—one lift for the prep room, another for vehicle loading, something else entirely for stairs—the Mortuary Lift Company created integrated systems that handle multiple functions.
This comprehensive approach means funeral homes need fewer pieces of equipment cluttering their facilities. It's a breath of fresh air in an industry where space is often at a premium, and every square foot matters.
The ULTIMATE 1000 Lift™ remains their crown jewel, maintaining its best-seller status for over five decades. When I ask funeral directors why they've stayed loyal to this particular model for so long, the answer is almost always the same: "Because I never have to worry about it." In a profession where equipment failure simply isn't an option, dependability like that is priceless.
The all-steel construction gives these lifts remarkable durability even in the busiest funeral homes. I've personally seen these lifts operating flawlessly after decades of daily use—something that would be impressive in any industry but is particularly valuable in ours.
Mortuary Lift Company Reputation & Reviews
The funeral industry is still largely built on relationships and word-of-mouth, and that's exactly how the Mortuary Lift Company has built its sterling reputation. When a product truly makes a difference, funeral directors talk.
Dawn at Meaningful Memories Funeral Trade in Rocky Point, NY shared a sentiment I've heard countless times when she said about a similar lifting system: "LoadAlone has saved my back." It's a simple statement that captures the profound impact proper lifting equipment has on the physical wellbeing of funeral professionals.
Another director from Albany confessed, "After only a few uses, I'm completely dependent on it." This rapid transition from skepticism to reliance is something I see regularly when funeral homes upgrade their lifting equipment. What begins as a "nice to have" quickly becomes essential to daily operations.
The company's commitment to customer service further strengthens their standing. They don't just sell equipment—they foster relationships with the people who use their products. This approach to business has created generations of loyal customers who wouldn't consider any other option for their lifting needs.
For those wanting to explore more options and see how different lift models compare in real-world funeral settings, our comprehensive lift reviews provide detailed evaluations based on criteria that matter most to funeral operations.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've partnered with Mortuary Lift Company because their values align with ours—building equipment that lasts, focusing on staff safety, and maintaining the dignity of those in our care. These aren't just features on a spec sheet; they're commitments that define how we serve the funeral profession.
Product Roundup: Ultimate 1000, Stepper, Tug-Along & More
When it comes to making your funeral home operations smoother, safer, and more efficient, Mortuary Lift Company offers a family of products that work as hard as you do. Let's take a friendly tour through their most popular equipment – the workhorses that have been making funeral professionals' lives easier for decades.
Ultimate 1000 Lift™
Picture this: a single piece of equipment that handles virtually all your lifting needs. That's the Ultimate 1000 in a nutshell. This flagship lift has earned its reputation over 50+ years as the go-to solution for prep rooms nationwide. What makes it special? It's not just powerful – it's thoughtfully designed for the specific workflows of funeral homes. Whether you're transferring remains or positioning a casket, this lift delivers rock-solid stability with the reliability that comes from five decades of refinement.
Stepper™ Electric Stair Climbing System
We all know those challenging locations – the narrow stairways, the homes without elevators, the places that make every removal a potential injury waiting to happen. The Stepper™ is like having an extra set of hands (and a strong back!) on your team. With its 375 lb capacity packed into a surprisingly lightweight frame, it essentially becomes your "second attendant" on difficult removals. The fold-away handles are a thoughtful touch that helps maintain proper posture when navigating stairs – a small detail that shows Mortuary Lift Company truly understands the daily challenges you face.
Tug-Along™ Casket & Gurney Winch
Loading and unloading vehicles has traditionally been a two or three-person job – until now. The innovative Tug-Along™ puts 1000 lbs of pulling power at your fingertips through a wireless remote that works from any position. Need to stand at the rear of the vehicle to guide a casket while simultaneously controlling the winch? No problem. This patent-pending system gives you eyes and control exactly where you need them, reducing strain and improving safety during one of the most physically demanding parts of funeral service.
Beyond these core products, Mortuary Lift Company offers customizable track and gantry systems that can transform even the most challenging prep room layouts into efficient workspaces. Their body coolers come in both standard and custom configurations, while their heavy-duty crematory lifts address the specific needs of cremation facilities. They've even developed specialized equipment for bariatric cases, recognizing the growing need for equipment that can safely handle larger individuals with dignity and respect.
| Product | Capacity | Power Source | Portability | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimate 1000 Lift™ | 1000+ lbs | Electric | Stationary/Track-mounted | Prep room operations |
| Stepper™ | 375 lbs | Electric | Highly portable | Stair navigation |
| Tug-Along™ | 1000 lbs | Electric | Portable | Vehicle loading/unloading |
| Heavy-Duty Crematory Lift | 1000+ lbs | Manual/Electric options | Stationary | Cremation operations |
Mortuary Lift Company: Unique Advantages
What makes Mortuary Lift Company equipment stand out in a crowded marketplace? It starts with exceptional engineering – particularly their remarkable strength-to-weight ratio. Their portable units deliver impressive lifting power without requiring Olympic-level strength to transport them between locations.
Their patented features solve real-world problems funeral professionals face daily. Take the wireless remote system on the Tug-Along™ – it's not just a convenience feature but a safety improvement that keeps you in visual contact with the casket throughout the loading process.
While the initial investment might be higher than some competitors, the math usually works out in your favor over time. These machines are built to last, with minimal downtime and replacement costs. As one funeral director put it about a similar system: "Purpose built for the funeral industry, the combination allows you to operate private ambulance services at a greatly reduced cost with no compromise on efficiency or discretion." That's the kind of value that makes a difference to your bottom line year after year.
Key Features That Drive Efficiency & Safety
The beauty of Mortuary Lift Company equipment lies in how it transforms daily operations:
Single-operator capability means you can accomplish tasks that traditionally required multiple staff members. This flexibility is invaluable when you're short-staffed or handling unexpected removals.
Wireless remote controls give you freedom of movement and optimal positioning during critical operations. You can be exactly where you need to be to guide a casket while still maintaining control over the lift.
Thoughtful ergonomic design elements like the fold-away handles on the Stepper™ keep your body in proper alignment, reducing the strain that leads to chronic injuries over time.
Smooth-gliding wheels ensure stable movement across various surfaces, maintaining the dignity of the deceased while protecting operator safety.
These features aren't just conveniences – they're aligned with OSHA lifting guidelines that recommend mechanical assistance for frequent lifting tasks and heavy loads. Back injuries remain among the most common and costly workplace injuries in our industry, affecting quality of life and driving up insurance costs.
For more insights on protecting your staff while improving efficiency, check out the latest research on workplace back injuries and find how the right equipment can transform your daily operations.
Service, Customization & Parts: Getting the Perfect Fit
When it comes to mortuary lifting equipment, one size definitely doesn't fit all. That's why at American Mortuary Coolers, we've partnered with Mortuary Lift Company to offer custom solutions that perfectly match your funeral home's unique layout and workflow needs.
Every prep room has its quirks – maybe yours has an awkward corner, limited ceiling height, or other spatial challenges. The Mortuary Lift Company shines in creating custom track layouts and gantry add-ons that transform even the most challenging spaces into efficient workspaces. Their track systems offer remarkable versatility compared to standard stationary mounts, giving you creative solutions when space is tight.
"I never thought we could fit a full track system in our historic building," one funeral director told us recently. "But the custom solution from Mortuary Lift Company worked around our structural limitations perfectly. It's like it was always meant to be there."
Beyond the main equipment, you'll find a complete range of replacement parts, including specialized straps for different applications. There's even a "swag store" with branded apparel and accessories – a testament to the loyalty Mortuary Lift Company has earned among funeral professionals who proudly wear their gear.
We understand that quality equipment represents a significant investment. That's why flexible financing options are available to help manage initial costs while still getting the equipment you need now. Standard products typically ship with reasonable lead times, though custom configurations naturally require some additional production time. All products include warranty coverage, with specific terms varying by product type.
When your new equipment arrives, the Mortuary Lift Company doesn't just drop it off and disappear. They provide comprehensive on-site training to ensure your team can safely and effectively operate everything. This training covers basic operation, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques – all crucial for maximizing your equipment's lifespan and your return on investment.
As David P. Murphy, inventor of a similar mortuary lifting system, explained: "I invented LoadAlone so I could do my job with minimal lifting or pushing." This practical, problem-solving approach is exactly what drives the Mortuary Lift Company's product development and customer service philosophy.
Accessory & Upgrade Checklist
When outfitting your Mortuary Lift Company equipment, several accessories and upgrades can improve functionality and convenience:
Mounting Kits provide installation flexibility based on your facility's construction, including stationary mounts, track systems, and gantry configurations to work with virtually any prep room layout.
Multi-Directional Ball Tops are game-changers for many funeral homes. These innovative platforms allow smooth lateral movement of caskets or remains, making transfers between surfaces much easier without additional lifting. The Powered Scissor Lift System HD 1000 MAX with Multi-Directional Top is particularly popular for this feature.
Bariatric Straps offer reinforced support designed specifically for larger cases, ensuring secure transport even when handling weights approaching equipment capacity limits – an increasingly important consideration in today's funeral operations.
For portable equipment like the Stepper™ and Tug-Along™, Battery Upgrades with extended-life options and improved charging systems ensure reliable operation even with frequent daily use.
Track Extensions and Curves allow you to customize your overhead system to steer around obstacles or extend to additional areas of your facility, maximizing the utility of your investment.
Replacement Parts are straightforward to find, as the company organizes components into mounting, tracking, and replacement categories for easy identification.
For more details about parts and accessories, especially our popular multi-directional ball tops that make side and end loading so much easier, visit our parts information page.
How to Order, Quote & Finance
Getting the right Mortuary Lift Company equipment for your facility is refreshingly straightforward:
For the most personalized service, contact us through our website to speak with a knowledgeable representative who can help determine the ideal equipment configuration for your specific needs and provide accurate pricing information. We love talking with funeral professionals and learning about your unique challenges.
Prefer digital communication? American Mortuary Coolers offers a simple online Request for Quote (RFQ) form where you can submit details about your requirements and receive a comprehensive quote without playing phone tag.
Managing cash flow is important for any business. Our flexible leasing programs allow you to acquire necessary equipment with minimal upfront investment. These programs typically offer adjustable terms and may include maintenance coverage to protect your investment.
When budgeting, remember to account for shipping costs, which vary based on equipment size and delivery location. At American Mortuary Coolers, we provide direct delivery across the contiguous 48 states, helping simplify this aspect of your purchase.
Here's a tip many funeral homes don't know: some small businesses may qualify for a 50% tax credit on their invoice as the equipment can be classified as removing accessibility barriers. Be sure to discuss this potential advantage with your financial advisor when planning your purchase.
Investing in quality lifting equipment isn't merely an expense—it's an investment in operational efficiency, staff safety, and dignified care for the deceased. As one funeral director shared with us: "After only a few uses, I'm completely dependent on it." That's the reality we see time and again—quality equipment quickly becomes indispensable to daily operations, making you wonder how you ever managed without it.
Buying Guide: Evaluating Providers for Safety, Support & Value
Shopping for mortuary lift equipment isn't like picking up supplies at the corner store. This is an investment that affects your staff's wellbeing, your operational efficiency, and the dignity you provide to families in your care. Let me walk you through what really matters when evaluating providers like Mortuary Lift Company.
Safety Verification
First things first—can the equipment safely handle what you need it to? Mortuary Lift Company clearly states their load capacities and backs them with rigorous testing. Look for those UL or CE compliance markings that tell you the equipment meets recognized safety standards—they're like the gold stars of the equipment world.
Materials make all the difference in both safety and how long your investment lasts. Stainless steel components shine (literally and figuratively) in prep rooms where exposure to fluids is inevitable. Powder-coated frames can work well too, often at a friendlier price point. Mortuary Lift Company's commitment to all-steel construction speaks volumes about their focus on creating equipment that stands the test of time.
Total Cost of Ownership
The sticker price is just the beginning of the story. Think of buying lift equipment like adopting a pet—there's the initial cost, and then there's everything that comes after. Calculate what you'll really spend over the equipment's lifetime by considering:
The upfront purchase and installation costs are obvious, but don't forget about staff training time, routine maintenance, the availability and cost of replacement parts, and the expected service life. Most importantly, factor in the labor savings from improved efficiency—this is where quality equipment truly pays dividends.
Mortuary Lift Company products might not be the cheapest options upfront, but there's a reason their ULTIMATE 1000 LIFT™ has been a best-seller for over 50 years. Quality equipment pays for itself through reliability and reduced downtime. As one funeral director told me, "I'd rather cry once over the price than cry every day over breakdowns."
Service Network Evaluation
When something goes wrong (and eventually, something always does), how quickly can you get help? A strong service network is your safety net.
Mortuary Lift Company puts service before, during, and after the sale at the center of their business model. Before committing to any provider, ask about their geographic coverage, response time guarantees, and emergency service availability. Find out what technical support options they offer—phone, email, on-site visits—and whether they provide training programs for your staff.
The best service is the service you never need because the equipment works reliably. But knowing it's there brings peace of mind that's hard to put a price tag on.
Respect for the Deceased
At the heart of what we do is honoring those who have passed. Equipment should never compromise dignity. Watch how smoothly and securely a lift operates, whether transfers are gentle, and if the equipment maintains stability throughout operation.
Mortuary Lift Company designs specifically for funeral service applications. Their products incorporate features that preserve dignity during all handling procedures—something generic industrial equipment simply can't match. The difference is subtle but meaningful to families, even if they never see the behind-the-scenes operations.
Staff Training & Ergonomics
Your team's wellbeing matters. Equipment should be intuitive enough that staff can master it quickly, with manufacturer training to fill in any knowledge gaps.
Look for ergonomic features that reduce physical strain—your staff's backs will thank you. Mortuary Lift Company's thoughtful designs, like the fold-away handles on their Stepper™ system, show they understand the real-world challenges funeral professionals face every day. These aren't just nice-to-have features; they're investments in staff health and retention.
Return on Investment Calculation
Good equipment pays for itself over time. Many manufacturers or dealers offer ROI calculators to help quantify the benefits:
Reduced workers' compensation claims alone can offset a significant portion of your investment. Add in decreased staff time per case, lower staffing requirements for transfers, and extended equipment life compared to alternatives, and the value becomes clear.
Don't forget potential tax advantages! Some equipment may qualify for grants or tax credits, particularly when it improves workplace safety or accessibility. Small businesses may even qualify for a 50% tax credit when the equipment removes accessibility barriers—definitely worth discussing with your financial advisor.
By looking beyond the price tag to these crucial factors, you'll find equipment that becomes an operational asset rather than just another expense. At American Mortuary Coolers, we've guided countless funeral homes through this evaluation process, helping them find the perfect balance of safety, support, and value for their unique needs. The right choice today means fewer headaches and better service for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mortuary Lift Company Equipment
How does the Ultimate 1000 improve funeral-home workflow?
The Ultimate 1000 Lift™ from Mortuary Lift Company isn't just another piece of equipment—it's a complete workflow revolution for funeral homes. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of prep room tools! Instead of cluttering your workspace with multiple specialized lifts, this single system handles everything, making training simpler and freeing up valuable floor space.
What funeral directors love most about the Ultimate 1000 is how it moves seamlessly between different tasks. One minute you're transferring remains to the prep table, the next you're handling a casket—all with the same reliable equipment. For smaller funeral homes where every square foot counts, this versatility is absolutely priceless.
When paired with a custom track system, the magic really happens. Imagine gliding throughout your prep room with zero lifting or pushing. Your back will thank you, and those expensive caskets won't suffer those little dings and scratches that come from manual handling.
As Mortuary Lift Company proudly states: "This heavy-duty lift is custom engineered specifically for the funeral, morgue, and hospital industry and is the only All-in-One Lifting™ system you will ever need for your business." After 50 years as a best-seller, they've clearly delivered on that promise. As one funeral director told us with a smile, "I honestly don't remember how we managed before we got this thing!"
What makes the Stepper a 'second attendant' on stairs?
Anyone who's ever helped carry a 250-pound body down a narrow staircase knows exactly why the Stepper™ is called a 'second attendant'! This clever electric stair climbing system literally replaces the need for that second person on removals—something your back and your staffing schedule will deeply appreciate.
With its impressive 375-pound capacity, the Stepper™ handles the weight while remaining surprisingly portable. The thoughtfully designed fold-away handles keep your posture proper during descent, which means no more of that awkward backward leaning that sends chiropractors' kids to college.
What really sets the Stepper™ apart are those glide-smooth wheels that maintain stability across different surfaces. The last thing anyone needs is a jerky, unstable ride when handling someone's loved one on a staircase.
For smaller funeral homes or during those dreaded 3 AM single-person removals, the Stepper™ is truly a game-changer. Not only does it reduce labor costs, but it also provides peace of mind when staffing is tight. As one rural funeral director told us, "On night calls, this machine is literally my partner. I couldn't do this job without it."
Can I retrofit tracks and lifts into an existing prep room?
Absolutely! The beauty of Mortuary Lift Company's track systems is their remarkable adaptability to existing spaces. You don't need to demolish your prep room and start from scratch—their systems are designed to work with what you already have.
The process starts with a thorough evaluation of your space. Those ceiling joists, concrete walls, and other structural elements that you probably never notice become important mounting points for a secure installation. Don't worry if your prep room has some quirks—that's normal in this industry where many funeral homes operate in historic buildings!
The track system options include straight sections, curves, and switches that can steer around existing fixtures like plumbing, coolers, or that cabinet that's been there since 1973. Rather than forcing you to conform to a standard design, Mortuary Lift Company creates a solution custom to your unique space.
Their mounting components are thoughtfully organized to make selection straightforward, and their technical team speaks "funeral director" fluently—they understand the practical realities of your work environment. For particularly challenging spaces, they might recommend an on-site assessment to ensure everything will function perfectly.
While most prep rooms can accommodate a retrofit, it's worth considering factors like ceiling height and structural support early in the process. I've worked with dozens of funeral homes to install these systems, and I'm continually impressed by how Mortuary Lift Company finds solutions for even the most challenging spaces. As one funeral director in a 100-year-old building told me with a laugh, "If they could make it work in my basement prep room with its 7-foot ceilings and support columns, they can make it work anywhere!"
Conclusion
Selecting the right mortuary lift equipment represents a critical decision for funeral homes, morgues, and hospitals seeking to optimize their operations while protecting staff and treating the deceased with dignity. Throughout this guide, we've explored the comprehensive offerings of the Mortuary Lift Company and how their half-century of experience translates into equipment that truly addresses the unique challenges of funeral service.
From the versatile Ultimate 1000 Lift™ to the innovative Stepper™ and Tug-Along™ systems, the Mortuary Lift Company has developed solutions that combine durability with thoughtful design features that improve daily operations. Their All-in-One Lifting™ approach means that facilities often need only one well-designed system rather than multiple specialized pieces of equipment.
The long-term reliability of Mortuary Lift Company products has been proven time and again through decades of service in busy funeral homes. I've personally seen directors go from skeptical to completely dependent on these systems in just a matter of weeks. As one funeral professional told me, "I can't imagine going back to the old way of doing things." That's the kind of change quality equipment brings to daily operations.
Beyond just selling equipment, the Mortuary Lift Company builds relationships. Their commitment to service doesn't end with installation - they're there for the long haul, ensuring your investment remains protected and your staff remains confident in using the equipment. Even facilities with unusual layouts or space constraints can find solutions through their impressive customization capabilities.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we take pride in our partnership with the Mortuary Lift Company. Our expertise in custom mortuary equipment allows us to help you create a complete solution that integrates seamless lifting systems with our durable, custom coolers. And with our direct delivery service across the contiguous 48 states, upgrading your facility becomes a straightforward process rather than a logistical headache.
Investing in quality lifting equipment isn't just an expense on your balance sheet - it's an investment in your staff's wellbeing, your operational efficiency, and the dignity you provide to families and their loved ones. The right equipment doesn't just change how you work; it transforms your entire approach to daily operations.
The return on investment extends far beyond dollars and cents. There's real value in preventing even a single workplace injury, in being able to handle difficult cases with confidence, and in providing consistently dignified care regardless of circumstances. That's the true measure of quality equipment's worth.
For more information about our complete range of morgue coolers and lifting solutions, I encourage you to visit our comprehensive guide to morgue coolers and lifts. We're always happy to answer questions and help you find the perfect solution for your specific needs.