Load Skates and Tow Tugs – Move Heavy Equipment with Safety and Precision

Transporting large, heavy, or awkward machinery can be a serious challenge – especially in industrial environments where safety and efficiency are paramount. That’s where load skates and tow tugs come in. These essential material handling tools are designed to streamline the movement of heavy loads, reduce strain on workers, and improve control during equipment relocation.

From manufacturing plants and warehouses to workshops and logistics depots, load skates and powered tow tugs provide safe, stable and reliable solutions for transporting loads that are simply too heavy for manual handling or traditional trolleys.

 

Why Choose Load Skates and Tow Tugs

Load skates are low-profile platforms fitted with heavy-duty rollers or wheels, designed to slide under large items and distribute their weight evenly. Once the load is on the skates, it can be pushed, pulled, or guided with precision. Tow tugs, on the other hand, are powered devices that connect to trolleys, skates, or wheeled equipment to move them with minimal effort.

Whether you’re:

  • Moving heavy machines across a warehouse

  • Relocating printing equipment or safes

  • Handling storage racks in a distribution centre

  • Transporting items in restricted or confined areas

  • Reducing the risk of injury from pushing or pulling large loads

Load skates and tow tugs provide a reliable solution for heavy-duty, low-clearance moves with better safety and less manpower.

 

Key Benefits

Move Extremely Heavy Loads

Load skates can support and move loads up to several tonnes, making them ideal for industrial relocations and machinery installation.

Compact and Low Profile

The slim design of load skates allows them to slide under large equipment with low clearance – perfect for tight spaces or under fixed installations.

Reduce Manual Handling Risks

Powered tow tugs eliminate the need for excessive pushing, pulling, or lifting, helping workplaces stay compliant with WHS regulations and reduce staff fatigue.

Improve Control and Manoeuvrability

Tow tugs allow for smooth directional control, while steerable skates let you guide large items precisely into position with minimal sway.

Suitable for a Range of Environments

Both tools can be used on factory floors, smooth concrete, storage rooms, or logistics centres – and some models are also rated for uneven or outdoor use.

 

Types of Load Skates and Tow Tugs

Our range of material handling equipment includes a wide variety of load skates and tow tugs, built to suit different load capacities and use cases:

1. Fixed Load Skates

These have straight-line wheels, ideal for transporting items in one direction. Often used in pairs or with rotating turntables.

2. Steerable Load Skates

Equipped with rotating tops or directional wheels, these skates allow curved or cornered movement when positioning loads.

3. Rotating Turntable Skates

Feature a 360° rotating surface for precise positioning and pivoting of machinery. Often paired with fixed rear skates.

4. Adjustable Skate Sets

These include adjustable bars or linked skates to spread weight evenly across wider items. Ideal for long or bulky equipment.

5. Powered Tow Tugs

Battery-powered units designed to pull or push trolleys, bins, or skates. Compact, quiet and ideal for indoor warehouse or production use.

6. Compact Load Movers

Small tow tugs or manual pushers that help shift wheeled loads such as hospital beds, waste bins or roll cages without strain.

 

How to Choose the Right Load Skate or Tow Tug

Selecting the right equipment requires careful assessment of your load, floor surface, and handling requirements. Here’s what to consider:

Load Capacity

Each skate or tow tug has a specific Safe Working Load (SWL). Choose a capacity that exceeds your maximum load weight, and ensure you factor in the total weight across all skates used.

Load Size and Shape

Wider loads may require multiple skates or longer bar sets for even weight distribution. Compact equipment may only need two-point or triangular setups.

Wheel Type

  • Nylon or PU Wheels: Low resistance and non-marking, ideal for smooth concrete floors

  • Steel Rollers: More durable on rugged or uneven surfaces

  • Swivel Wheels: Enable flexible movement and steering

  • Anti-slip Surfaces: Improve grip and reduce sliding when the load shifts

Power Source (Tow Tugs)

Battery-powered tow tugs should offer sufficient run-time and pulling power for your daily requirements. Look for models with intuitive controls and emergency stops.

Frame and Build Material

  • Steel Load Skates: Heavy-duty and built for tough use

  • Aluminium Tow Tugs: Lightweight and rust-resistant

  • Powder-Coated or Galvanised Finishes: Increase durability and corrosion resistance in damp or industrial areas

Optional Features

  • Adjustable bars for multi-skate setups

  • Non-slip rubber mats

  • Brakes or locks on wheels for safety

  • Custom attachments for specific equipment or trolley styles

For an alternative solution, see our vast selection of dollies, multi purpose trolleys, powered trolleys, platform trolleys, lifting trolleys and more.

 

Workplace Safety Tips

These tools are designed to reduce manual handling strain – but proper use is essential to ensure safety and prevent equipment damage:

  • Ensure the floor surface is smooth and clean before use

  • Use appropriate lifting equipment to raise items onto the skates safely

  • Always assess the load’s centre of gravity and stability before moving

  • Never exceed the recommended load capacity

  • Ensure skates are aligned correctly to avoid tipping

  • Use a spotter if visibility is obstructed or the load is tall

  • Charge tow tugs according to the manufacturer’s instructions

  • Train all users in correct operation and emergency procedures

 

Applications Across Industries

Load skates and tow tugs are used in a broad range of settings where safe and efficient heavy load movement is required:

Manufacturing & Engineering

Used to move production machinery, fabrication tables, compressors or generators across plant floors without forklifts.

Maintenance & Facility Management

Help reposition heavy HVAC units, electrical cabinets, or large assets during installations or upgrades.

Construction & Fit-Outs

Essential during shop fit-outs, renovations or construction setups – where large fixtures or materials need to be relocated carefully.

Warehousing & Logistics

Tow tugs move carts, trolleys or bins around warehouses, reducing fatigue and speeding up workflow, especially in order fulfilment zones.

Healthcare & Airports

Compact tow tugs are used for moving hospital beds, baggage carts, linen bins or food trolleys with minimal physical effort.

 

Shop Our Full Range of Load Skates and Tow Tugs

Whether you’re shifting heavy machinery in a factory, navigating tight warehouse aisles, or improving safety in your transport operations, our range of load skates and tow tugs offers the right solution. Designed for performance and built tough for Australian conditions, they make light work of even the heaviest jobs.

Explore our complete range of steerable skates, adjustable sets, industrial movers and powered tugs – or speak to our team for expert guidance on the best option for your workplace.