A loader assembly (58) for emptying the contents of a refuse container into the hopper (57) of a refuse handling vehicle having a curb side and a street side and carrying an onboard supply of hydraulic fluid. The loader assembly comprises a lift assembly (280) for lifting a refuse container and dumping the contents thereof into the hopper (57). The lift assembly (280) is coupled for vertical pivotal movement about a pivot point on the vehicle. The loader assembly further comprises first means coupled to the vehicle and to the lift assembly (280) for altering the distance between the pivot point and the curb side of the vehicle.