Will-I kayak loader, stainless folding arm with a black padded roller crossbar
BerleyPro Kayak loaded onto a white ute roof rack using the Will-I loader arm outside a workshop
White wagon at sunset on a beach with a kayak carried on the roof by the Will-I Kayak loader
4WD on a salt flat with a Hobie Lynx on the roof and the kayak loader arm extended
Stainless Will-I kayak loader arm swung down from the roof rack at the rear of a white 4WD
Close-up of the Will-I kayak loader arm, black cradle pad and red release cord on a roof rack
Dimensioned drawing of the Berleypro Will-I kayak loader labelling crossbars, cradles, gas strut and drawbar
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Will-I Kayak Loader

The BerleyPro Will-I Kayak Loader is a hitch-mounted kayak lifting system that makes it easier for one person to load and unload a kayak onto a vehicle roof rack. Designed to fit into your vehicle's tow hitch, Will-I provides lift assistance when moving kayaks, SUPs and other long or bulky equipment onto and off your roof racks.

The unique gear-locking system supports controlled movement in both directions, making loading easier and allowing for a smooth, controlled unloading process. Whether you're loading a kayak onto a car, SUV or 4WD, Will-I reduces the effort required to get your gear safely onto the roof.

Note: The Will-I Kayak Loader exceeds the free shipping weight/size limit. Shipping costs will be shown at checkout.

Specifications

Australian Made Kayak Lifter

  • Stainless steel gearing and locking pins
  • Fits a 50mm tow hitch receiver
  • Heavy-duty aluminium tubing
  • Short overhang to increase entry and exit angles and remain legal when driving
  • Safety pin when driving
  • Stainless steel brackets
  • Adjustable V to suit a range of kayaks
  • Soft LDPE pads for the kayak to slide on
  • Cheater bar for pre-loading gas strut
  • Bumper for loading kayak
  • Plastic topped activation lever
  • Interchangeable mounts for different gas struts depending on weight. Replacement struts are available for purchase

View the Will-I Loader Assembly Guide (PDF)

Shipping Info

BerleyPro Will-I Kayak Loaders are packaged in a large & heavy box (121 x 31 x 27cm, 19kg) and are too large to be delivered by Australia Post. Important: no delivery to PO Box addresses.

See the FAQ on our Shipping Information page for delivery time estimates

The Will-I Loader is expensive to ship and does not qualify for free shipping. However if you order anything else to go with your loader no extra shipping charges will apply.

One-Person Kayak Loading Without the Heavy Lifting

The BerleyPro Will-I Kayak Loader uses a unique locking gear and gas-strut system to assist with both loading and unloading your kayak. Instead of lifting and rotating the rear of the kayak high into the air to reach your roof racks, Will-I supports the kayak through a controlled loading arc, helping reduce the effort required and minimising contact with the rear of the kayak and rudder assembly.

The system also allows you to load your kayak directly from a trolley. Lower the Will-I into its loading position, wheel the kayak into place and position the bow onto the loader. As the kayak is pushed forward, the front of the kayak engages the load-activation lever and the gas strut assists in lifting the kayak up and onto the roof racks.

Controlled Loading and Unloading

The Will-I combines a stainless-steel locking gear and pin mechanism with a gas strut matched to the weight of your kayak. The locking system holds the loader securely through its operating range, while the gas strut provides assistance when lifting the kayak onto the vehicle and supports the load during unloading.

This controlled movement makes it easier for one person to load and unload a kayak without having to manually lift the full weight of the kayak overhead. It also helps avoid the awkward high-angle rotation associated with conventional roof loading, which can put unnecessary contact and pressure on the rear of the kayak and rudder assembly.

Choose the Correct Gas Strut

The gas strut must be matched to the weight of your kayak, so the Will-I is available with three different strut options. When selecting the correct strut, allow for the weight of accessories and equipment that will remain on the kayak while loading.

For travel, we recommend removing as much equipment as practical from the kayak before loading. However, make sure the total operating weight - including any accessories that remain fitted - is considered when selecting your strut.

Note: replacement struts are available for purchase.

Dimensioned drawing of the Berleypro Will-I kayak loader labelling crossbars, cradles, gas strut and drawbar

Will-I Kayak Loader Features

  • Stainless steel gearing and locking pins
  • Fits a 50mm tow hitch receiver
  • Heavy-duty aluminum tubing
  • Short overhang to increase entry and exit angles and remain legal when driving
  • Safety pin when driving
  • Stainless steel brackets
  • Adjustable V to suit a range of kayaks
  • Soft LDPE pads for the kayak to slide on
  • Cheater bar for pre-loading gas strut
  • Interchangeable mounts for different gas struts depending on weight
  • Bumper for loading kayak
  • Plastic topped activation lever

Made in Australia

BerleyPro WIll-I Kayak Loader

Loading / Unloading Demonstration

Will-I Loader FAQ

What is the Will-I-Loader?

The Will-I-Loader is a hitch-mounted kayak lifting system that lets one person easily load and unload heavy kayaks onto a vehicle roof rack with minimal effort. It uses a patented gear-locking system and gas strut to handle the weight, allowing you to load straight from a trolley without damaging the rear of your kayak or vehicle.

How does it work?
  • Pull the loader down to the loading position.
  • Wheel your kayak on a trolley and place the nose onto the loader.
  • Push the kayak forward against the activation lever - the gas strut assists in lifting the front end up and onto the roof rack.
  • Unloading is just as smooth thanks to the controlled descent.

Which model should I choose?
  • Will-I-Loader 5: For kayaks 35–45 kg
  • Will-I-Loader 6: For kayaks 45–55 kg
  • Will-I-Loader 7: For kayaks 55–65 kg

We recommend choosing the model based on your kayak’s loaded weight (including any accessories you normally leave on). Remove most gear for travel and select the strut that best matches the weight.

What vehicles does it fit?

It fits any vehicle with a standard 50 mm (2 inch) tow hitch receiver. It has a short overhang to maintain good departure angles and stay road-legal.

Is it suitable for heavy fishing kayaks?

Yes - many users successfully load heavy fishing kayaks (including models with seats, fish finders, and gear still attached) up to the maximum weight rating.

How long does it take to load/unload?

Most users report loading or unloading in under a minute once familiar with the process.

What are the key features?
  • Stainless steel gearing and locking pins
  • Heavy-duty aluminium tubing
  • Adjustable V-cradle with soft LDPE pads
  • Safety pin for driving
  • Cheater bar for pre-loading the gas strut
  • Interchangeable gas strut mounts
  • Bumper and plastic-topped activation lever

Can I drive with the loader attached?

Yep. Insert the safety pin and you can leave it on the hitch while driving (short overhang keeps it legal in most areas). Some users add a strap for extra stability on long trips.

Does it work with SUPs or other long items?

Sure does! It’s great for stand-up paddleboards and other long, bulky items.

How much does it weigh?

Approximately 18 kg (40 lbs)

Are replacement parts available?

Replacement gas struts are available separately so you can refresh the unit years later.

Still have questions? Feel free to contact us - we’re happy to help you choose the right model for your kayak and vehicle!

Are there any tutorials on assembly?

Yes. We have video guides on assembly, maintenance and usage tips available to view at our Youtube WIll-I-Loader Playlist

What about maintenance?

We have a brief guide for your reading pleasure here:
Maintaining Your Will-I Kayak Loader