You don't have to use limit switches but you do have to pay attention and shut it off and not go to far. Or you can use the controller in the link below and it has solder points for two limit switches so you can stop it automatically at each end. Look at the data sheet and it shows how to wire it as a forward/reverse directional control. Now it is just on and off so you can use it with a 3 pos switch. This is the controller I use in my dumps now and it works great.
RCE220 RC Small Dual Relay Switch
Data sheet
Travis