The H-Lift HDL400 Hydraulic Drum Lifter is a heavy-duty material handling solution designed for the safe transport and positioning of 210-litre (55-gallon) steel and plastic drums. Featuring a robust hydraulic system, this unit allows a single operator to lift drums up to 400kg with minimal effort, making it ideal for loading and unloading pallets, spill containment pallets, and scales. Its ergonomic design includes a secure rim-grip mechanism ensuring stability during transport in warehouses and industrial facilities.

Heavy-duty lifting capacity of 400kg for standard industrial drums
Hydraulic foot pump operation for smooth and effortless lifting
Spring-loaded "Eagle-grip" clamp securely holds drum rims
Suitable for handling both steel and plastic 55-gallon drums
Compact design allows for easy maneuvering in tight aisles

Technical Data
Drum Lifter

The HDL400 Hydraulic Drum Lifter is an all-in-one solution designed to lift, transport, rotate, and pour drums. With a lifting height of 1450mm and 180° rotation capability, it is ideal for precise dispensing in chemical and industrial fluid handling applications.

🏗️ Lift & Pour

Multi-Function: Lifts, transports, and rotates.

High Reach: Max lift height of 1450mm allows pouring into hoppers and mixers.

🔄 Controlled Rotation

Features a 180° Oil Roll-over Angle for precise pouring control. Hydraulic operation (foot or hand pump) ensures smooth vertical lifting.

💪 Heavy Duty

Capacity: 400kg W.L.L.

Compatibility: Standard 210L (55-gallon) steel drums. Secure rim clamp ensures stability during tilting.

🚚 High Mobility

Equipped with sturdy Ø180mm rear wheels and front castors for easy maneuvering in tight warehouse spaces.

Q: Can the HDL400 pour drums? A: Yes, it is specifically designed as a Drum Rotator/Pourer. It lifts to 1450mm and tilts up to 180 degrees to dispense contents.

Q: What type of drums can it handle? A: Designed for standard industrial drums, typically 210-liter (55-gallon) steel drums. Please check with us for plastic or fiber drum compatibility.

Technical Specifications

← Swipe table left and right to view all data →

Item No.	Capacity	Vertical Lifting Range	Level Rise Height	Oil Roll-over Angle	Overall Length	Overall Width	Overall Height	Rear Wheel	Weight	Product Code
Item No.	kg	mm	mm	Oil Roll-over Angle	mm	mm	mm	mm	Weight	Product Code
HDL400	400	1450	1350	180°	1200	960	2030	Ø180	210	806002400

Hydraulic Drum Lifters

Safe & Efficient Solutions for Transporting, Stacking, and Pouring Drums

What is a Hydraulic Drum Lifter?

A Hydraulic Drum Lifter is a specialized material handling device designed to lift, transport, stack, or pour industrial drums (such as 55-gallon steel or plastic drums). Unlike manual dollies, these units utilize a hydraulic pump mechanism (foot or hand-operated) to raise heavy drums with minimal operator effort.

They are essential tools in chemical plants, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities, significantly reducing the risk of workplace injuries caused by manually handling heavy liquid-filled drums.

Main Types of Drum Lifters

Choosing the right model depends on your specific application—whether you simply need to move a drum across the floor or lift it high onto a rack.

1. Drum Porter (DT Series)

Best For: Horizontal Transport.

Designed primarily to pick up a drum from the ground and move it to another location. Features a compact design with an "Eagle-grip" or rim clamp.

✔ Lifts just enough to clear the floor (approx. 200-300mm).
✔ Ideal for moving drums on and off pallets (pallet-straddle models available).

2. Drum Rotator / Tilter (DA Series)

Best For: Pouring & Dispensing.

Equipped with a gear mechanism that allows the operator to rotate the drum 180° or 360°. This allows for precise pouring of contents into a hopper or mixer.

✔ High lifting height (up to 1.4m or more).
✔ Secure locking band to hold the drum during rotation.

3. Low Profile / Pallet Loading

Best For: Pallet Accessibility.

Standard lifters often have legs that block access to pallets. Low-profile or "Straddle Leg" designs (DTW type) allow the legs to go around the pallet, enabling the operator to place a drum in the center or corner of a pallet.

Key Design Features

Eagle-Grip Structure: A spring-loaded clamping mechanism that automatically locks onto the upper rim of the drum. The heavier the drum, the tighter the grip.
Hydraulic System: High-quality cylinder with a foot pedal for easy lifting and a release knob/handle for controlled lowering.
Heavy-Duty Wheels: typically equipped with Nylon or Polyurethane (PU) wheels. PU wheels are quiet and protect floors, while Nylon wheels are durable and chemical resistant.
Universal Fit: Most models are adjustable to handle both steel and plastic (HDPE) drums, provided they have a standard top rim.

How to Use a Drum Lifter

Operation Steps (Standard DT Type)
Approach: Push the lifter towards the drum with the clamp jaws open. Ensure the lower support (if present) touches the drum body.
Engage: Position the "Eagle-grip" clamp so the upper jaw rests on the top rim and the lower jaw rests just below the rim.
Lift: Pump the foot pedal (or handle). The clamp will bite into the rim and lift the drum off the ground.
Transport: Move the drum to the desired location. Keep the drum low during transport for stability.
Release: Lower the drum slowly by turning the release valve. Once the drum is on the ground, the clamp will release automatically or manually.

Safety Precautions

⚠ WARNING: Rim Condition is Critical

Most hydraulic drum lifters rely on the drum rim (chime) to lift. Do not use standard eagle-grip lifters on drums that are damaged, deformed, or lack a pronounced rim (e.g., some smooth-sided plastic drums), as the drum may slip and fall.

Check Capacity: Never exceed the Rated Load (W.L.L.), typically 250kg - 450kg for standard models.
Surface: Operate on flat, smooth, and hard surfaces (concrete). These units are not designed for gravel, dirt, or steep ramps.
Secure the Load: For drum rotators/tilters, ensure the belly band or locking chain is tight before lifting or rotating.
Foot Protection: Operators should wear safety boots, as fully loaded drums are extremely heavy.
Inspection: Regularly check the hydraulic cylinder for oil leaks and ensure the clamping teeth are sharp and not worn out.