Universal Handling Equipment Company
By Eric Voytko

Universal Handling Equipment Company was founded as a subsidiary of a scrap metal company to manufacture their lugger boxes. By the early 1960s, the company added more varieties for sale to the public, including front-loader containers compatible with the Dempster Dumpmaster System and other side-fork models. A patented latch system kept lids closed until the containers were inverted over the hopper, to prevent spillage. Optional container lid latch system patented by Universal Handling     By the early 1970s, a Universal Handling front loader had arrived, a heavy-duty full-pack based on the Dempster Dumpaster. Standard features included hydraulic tailgate, hopper cover and dual controls. A single telescopic cylinder performed packing/ejecting in bodies of 25, 30 or 40-cubic yards with over-the-cab lift arms. A Complete collection and transfer system was developed, including transfer trailers and a side-loading collection body (see page 2).     The company was sold to the Gerrard family in 1978, and added a facility at Red Deer, Alberta. 1994 saw the opening of a branch at Owosso, Michigan, bringing Universal Handling packers to the United States. A line of rear loaders, including dual-chamber models joined the front loaders, hooklifts, trailers and containers. A cylinder manufacturing company (Weld-o-Matic) was acquired to provide hydraulic components. Known for their high-quality product, a downturn in business nevertheless brought bankruptcy in 2014, as the small manufacturer struggled to compete against the crowded field of North American refuse body builders. 1971 Universal Handling 40-yard Front Loader Universal 'lightweight' type front loader, in use in 1974 Universal compaction transfer trailer Universal lugger body, circa 1975 1980 Universal front loader, with direct-pull lift arms mounted on body sides 1981 Universal front loader with a good view of the distinctive mechanical hopper cover linkage Universal "Ram" rear loader debuted in the 1990s, and was very similar to McNeilus The big 32-yard rear loader was the heavyweight hauler Universal Ram X4 dual-stream rear loader Universal curved-shell series LM "Super Nova" front loader Interior view of the curved-shell body and packer plate 2/1/2020 © 2020 All Rights Reserved Photos from factory brochures/advertisements except as noted Logos shown are the trademarks of respective manufacturers