When operational safety becomes ease of use
The tail lift is the key piece of equipment for efficient goods handling on commercial vehicles. Its safe and productive use depends largely on whether the operating personnel are familiar with the available functions and use the controls correctly. Modern taillifts offer far more than just simple lifting and lowering – they feature sophisticated movement functions, intelligent automatic programmes and a wide range of safety mechanisms. These are complemented by intelligent linkages with vehicle components, which enhance ease of use and prevent operating errors.
Whether you work with your liftgate on a daily basis or are simply looking to familiarise yourself with the operating options for the first time: this article provides a concise overview. You are already familiar with the safety aspects from the article “Operational safety for and by the driver”. Now, by exploring the functions and controls, you can discover the possibilities for the convenient and efficient use of the tail lift, as well as its optimal integration into your logistics process.
This encyclopaedia entry provides a comprehensive overview of the operating functions of modern tail lifts:
» Operating functions of Bär tail lifts
This section shows you the basic functions that every tail lift relies on, automatic functions that are often specific to BÄR, as well as additional functions of the Cargolift or other vehicle components. Click on the heading or the image to find out more or simply scroll down.
» Operating functions of product groups
The key functional difference between the product groups lies in the way the platform is moved from the driving position to the working position and back again. BÄR explains this for tail-lift systems with a platform positioned behind the vehicle body, retractable tailgate lifts with a single or double manually folding platform or a double hydraulically folding platform, as well as tuck-away lifts. Clicking on the image or the heading will take you to this section.
The next article introduces the various control elements.
» Control functions of Bär tail lifts
The range of functions on a taillift covers all the movements and control options required for safe and efficient goods handling. Whilst the basic functions are present on all lifts and enable the actual lifting process, additional functions expand the scope of application and significantly increase comfort and safety.
Regardless of whether a function is triggered via simple push-buttons, control levers, remote controls or automatic programs – the movement sequences themselves remain identical. The choice of control element primarily influences ease of use and the operator’s positioning during lift operation. Each of the functions described below can be implemented using the various control elements presented in the second part of this lexicon topic.
Basic functions of Bär Cargolift
The basic functions form the functional minimum of every lift. Because “open, close, up, down” – unfortunately, it’s not that simple… The reality of the job is more complex. The tail-lift operation consists of:
Switch on the lift
Moving the platform into the working position
This basic function varies depending on the product group (see below). The Standard product group is shown here.
Lower the platform
Lift the platform
Adjusting the platform tilt at any height
Only with an empty platform – thus without load! See also practical tips for using tail lifts.
Move the platform into the driving position
This basic function varies depending on the product group (see below). The Standard product group is shown here.
Switch off the lift
Automatic functions
As an additional feature, Bär Cargolifts offer automatic functions, which are either standard or optional. These functions are available depending on the product group or BC model.
QuickShift – Opening and lowering the platform simultaneously
If the Standard or FreeAccess platform is closed (i.e. the platform is positioned vertically behind the vehicle body), the "Lower" command triggers the QuickShift function as serial feature.
SoftLock – When the platform automatically moves in and out from under the load-securing rail
As an optional extra, the SoftLock sequence starts automatically with the “Open”, “QuickShift” and “Close” functions. SoftLock can be configured via the Bär CargoCheck diagnostic software.
Tilting the platform up or down on the ground
All Bär Cargolifts automatically tilt up and down at ground level – either via the mechanical joint or under electrical control. Simply hold the ‘Lift’ or ‘Lower’ control command for a longer time.
QuickClose – When the VanLift platform moves automatically into the driving position
VanLifts manufactured from 2025 onwards come with QuickClose as standard: pressing the “Close” button moves the platform automatically into the driving position.
SmartSlide – When the tailgate automatically moves into the optimal driving position
When the “Retract” control command is activated, the RetFalt Lift first adjusts the retraction height, then the platform angle, before retracting. From 2026 on, after retracting, the lift will automatically lift the foldedplatform and stop the lifting process independently once a sufficiently safe driving position has been reached.
EasyFold – when the Hydfalt Cargolift does (almost) everything by itself
EasyFold means that the operator can move the HydFalt Lift completely from the drive position to the working position – or from the working position to the drive position – with a single control command. Depending on the control unit, there are dedicated control commands for this (Bär Control EVO) or EasyFold is standard equipment (Bär SmartControl Plus radio control).
Additional functions
In addition to the basic functions, modern Bär Cargolifts feature various additional functions that enhance working comfort, enable specific application scenarios and improve safety.
SwitchKey – Switching on and off via a sequence of commands
BÄR offers the option of switching the lift on and off via a control sequence. This function is standard on Cargolifts mounted on towed units – i.e. trailers or semi-trailers – and is optional on all other Cargolifts.
Save the platform’s tilt-end angle
Via the control unit.
Switch off the hazard warning lights
Via the control unit.
Control the BC S4U underrun bar
Via the control element.
Control of other components via the BÄR control unit
Control hydraulic jack legs
Can be operated via the Bär control unit, via a dedicated Bär Control EVO, or linked to the lift movement (controlled automatically). The legs can be controlled centrally or individually. Please speak to your contact person about the options for support control.
Controlling the rolling gate of the vehicle body
Optionally, the vehicle’s roller door can move in conjunction with the lift function. This is made possible by the eBC Controller electronic control system. Please speak to your contact person about rolling gate control.
Customer function
Would you like to control other electrical vehicle components using a Bär control unit? Or monitor lift statuses – such as platform open/closed or the position of the S4U hydraulic underrun protection? Discuss your requirements with your contact person. The “eBC Controller” electronic control unit“ from Bär Cargolift offers you a wide range of options.
Either click the up arrow or scroll down to view the control functions for each product group.
Control functions of product groups
Whether a tail lift, tailgate, liftgate or lifting platform, the “lift” and “lower” functions are common to all Cargolifts – regardless of the product group. However, they differ in the way they move from the driving position to the working position and back again.
Click on one of the images to go to the product group.
Tail lifts with a platform positioned behind the vehicle body
Moving the closed platform into the working position
Standard and FreeAccess Cargolifts and VanLifts come by series with the ‘Open’ and ‘QuickShift’ functions to move into the working position. This requires the platform to be closed, i.e. positioned vertically behind the vehicle body. As an option, Standard S4 Cargolifts with a load capacity of 1,000 kg or more can be fitted with SoftLock.
Please note: On older Cargolifts (manufactured before 2024), the QuickShift function is likely only available on Standard Cargolifts with four cylinders (S4) – and, where applicable, only immediately after switching on the lift.
Move the platform into the driving position
Standard and FreeAccess Cargolifts return to the driving position as standard via the “Close” function.
Since 2025, VanLifts have automatically switched to the “QuickClose” function when the “Close” command is given.
If Standard S4 Cargolifts with a load capacity of 1,000 kg or more are equipped with SoftLock, the “Close” command automatically triggers a defined sequence of movements to position the platform under the load-securing rail.
Retractable RetFalt Cargolifts with a one time, manually folded platform
Moving the slider platform into the working position
The ‘extend’ command first lowers the folded platform before the lift begins to extend. Once the folded platform is fully extended, it can be unfolded manually on RetFalt Cargolifts.
Moving the RetFalt platform into the driving position
To return to the driving position, the RetFalt platform must first be folded manually. With the “Retract” command, there are three options:
- Option 1: For models built up to 2024, or in emergency mode, the platform retracts back under the vehicle. The operator then switches to the “Lift” command to securely brace the platform for travel.
- Option 2: From 2024 onwards, SmartSlide is activated. The lift first automatically adjusts the retraction height and the platform angle before moving back. As soon as the folded platform reaches its limit, the operator switches to the “Lift” function to move into the driving position.
- Option 3: From around 2026 onwards. SmartSlide corrects the height and inclination, moves back, lifts the platform and stops automatically once it is securely locked in place.
Special case: separate folding position
If the body overhang is insufficient in the specific mounting situation, the “Additional working position stop” option may be required. This means that the lift first extends fully. The platform is unfolded manually. The unfolded platform is then retracted and stops automatically at the working position via a sensor.
After use, the platform is first extended fully, folded in manually, then retracted to the travel position (see above).
Slider RetFalt Cargolifts with a manually double-folded platform (R42)
Bringing the R42 platform into the working position
he “Extend” command first lowers the folded platform – also known as the platform package – before it is extended. This is followed by the “Lower” command, followed by the manual unfolding in two steps: first of the platform package and second of the platform tip.
Moving the R42 platform into the driving position
After using the lift, the operator folds the platform tip in by hand, then the platform package. The “Lift” command swings the platform package upwards. The “Retract” command pulls the platform package under the vehicle and then lifts it.
Special case: use with BDF swap body (in accordance with EN 284)
If the BC R42 is fitted to vehicles with a BDF swap body, the lift can be used for different body lengths. Sensors on the guide rail allow the extended platform to be retracted to the working position, with the function stopping automatically at the sensor – i.e. in the correct position for lifting and lowering.
After use, the platform is first extended fully before being folded manually.
In this installation scenario, support arm stops and a folding bridge plate are required. Further information on this topic can be found on the Ret/Hydfalt product page and in the tail lift encyclopaedia.
Retractable HydFalt Cargolifts with hydraulically double-folded platform (H42)
Bringing the HydFalt platform into the working position
The “Extend” command first lowers the folded platform – also known as the platform package – and then extends it. One control command unfolds the platform package, whilst another command unfolds the platform tip. If the HydFalt platform is only 1560 mm deep, the platform tip must be unfolded manually. In most cases, the unfolded HydFalt platform is then retracted back into the working position. It stops automatically as soon as it is in the correct position.
If the HydFalt Cargolift is equipped with the Bär SmartControl Plus radio control system or the EasyFold function on another control unit, the operator can lower the lift, extend it and unfold the platform with a single command.
Moving the HydFalt platform into the driving position
After loading or unloading, the platform is moved to the folding position using the “Extend” command. To fold hydraulically, the platform must be at the correct height. The platform tip can then be folded using one command (except for a platform depth of 1,560 mm, where the platform tip must be folded manually). The next control command folds the platform package. Finally, the “Retract” command moves the folded platform assembly back under the vehicle and then lifts it into the driving position.
If the EasyFold function is available, a single control command is sufficient to move the unfolded platform into the driving position.
As with the variant featuring manual platform folding (R42), HydFalt can be used with BDF swap bodies. More information »
Tuck-away Falt Cargolifts
Bringing the tuck-away platform into the working position
To use the Falt Cargolifts, the platform package – i.e. the folded platform – is lowered hydraulically using the ‘Lower’ control command. From this position, the platform package and the tip of the platform are unfolded by hand.
Move the tuck-away platform into the travel position
After use, first fold in the platform tip, then the platform package manually. The “Lift” command then moves the folded platform package into the drive position.
Special case: F4 tilt compensation
Falt Cargolifts are available in two versions: F2 or F4. The F2 version has two lifting cylinders. This means the F2 can lift and lower, as well as automatically tilt up and down on the ground.
The F4 version has two tilting cylinders in addition to the two lifting cylinders. These allow the platform tilt to be adjusted at all heights. This is particularly relevant if the lift is frequently used on slopes and the platform needs to be readjusted.
» Does my lift have this control function? And how does the tail lift work? HowToCargoLift has the answers
In the glossary, BÄR can only explain the available operating functions in general terms. If you’re wondering how your Bär Cargolift works, you’ll find the answer in the HowToCargoLift web application: scan the QR code on the lift and you’ll receive the online operating instructions for that specific Bär Cargolift.
HowToCargoLift shows you instructions for functions and equipment that the Cargolift had when it was delivered by BÄR. Unfortunately, retrofits cannot be displayed.
As an alternative to the QR code, you can access HowToCargoLift online using your Cargolift’s serial number: www.howtocargolift.com
Conclusion: Operational safety can lead to ease of use
In this post, you have learnt about the operating functions of Bär Cargolift: classic basic functions of the individual lift types as well as BÄR-specific automatic or additional functions. And if it is unclear which functions the Bär Cargolift has, the HowToCargoLift web application is likely to know more.
The next article will focus on the controls you can use to perform these functions.