Mortuary & Cadaver Lifts — Buyer's Guide to Safe Body & Equipment Lifting (2026)
Mortuary and cadaver lifts protect your staff and preserve dignity during transfers. Manual lifting is the leading cause of back and shoulder injuries in funeral and mortuary work, and lift equipment removes most of that risk while making one- or two-person transfers safe and controlled. This guide covers the main types and how to choose the right capacity and configuration.
Types of mortuary lifts
- Hydraulic body lifts — raise and lower remains between cots, tables, and storage with minimal manual effort
- Scissor lifts — height-adjustable platforms for crematory loading and prep work
- Transfer and lift-assist devices — straps, boards, and trays that support safe repositioning
How to choose
- Weight capacity — size for your heaviest expected case, including bariatric; never to the average
- Height range — match your cot, table, retort, and storage rack heights
- Mobility — casters and footprint for the rooms you work in
- Power vs. manual — powered units reduce strain and speed repetitive transfers
- Cleanable, serviceable build — stainless and standard components that last
Shop lifts and lifting aids
Browse cadaver lifts & racks and crematory scissor lifts, plus accessories like replacement body lift straps.
Pricing, financing, and quotes
Lift pricing depends on capacity, lift type, and power. We build to spec and ship nationwide; financing is available, and you can request a quote or call 1-888-792-9315.
Frequently asked questions
What weight capacity do I need?
Choose for your heaviest expected case, including bariatric transfers, rather than your typical case.
Do lifts really reduce staff injuries?
Yes — powered and assisted lifting greatly reduces the manual strain that causes most back and shoulder injuries in transfers.
Can a lift match my cot and table heights?
Yes — tell us your equipment heights and we will recommend a lift with the right range.






