Mobile Scissor Lifts: What to Know Before you Buy

Written by: Steve Thompson

For raising workers to do work off the ground, or for accessing multi-level storage in modern warehouses, mobile scissor lifts are an essential piece of equipment. Self-powered and able to maneuver in many indoor environments, mobile scissor lifts make high-elevation areas easily accessible. These lifts can transport people and materials up and down different heights, and some are designed with weather-resistant materials for outdoor use. Choosing the right mobile scissor lift means understanding the basic types and capacities. Here’s what you need to know.

Mobile scissor lift: indoor versus outdoor use

A mobile scissor lift can be used for either indoor or outdoor tasks, but you must first make sure that the equipment was intended for the project you have planned for it. Most indoor lifts have smaller wheels and are incapable of navigating rough terrain. Generally, these machines are categorized as light duty, medium duty, economic and premium.

In most cases, an outdoor lift will be powered by gas, and cannot be used indoors because of the emissions it produces. Indoor lifts are battery powered, and are usually less noisy and safer for the environment. However they’re not waterproof and shouldn’t be used outdoors for long.

A portable work platform used outdoors should still be stored properly under shelter when not in use. Rust and other environmental damage might render the equipment inoperable, and it is important to safeguard your investments.

Capacity

A portable man lift is one of the smallest types of mobile scissor lifts, usually offering a lifting capacity of around 300 pounds, enough for one worker and equipments. Larger scissor lifts can hoist up to 2,500 pounds, depending on the platform size and construction, but the most popular capacity is around 500 to 1,000 pounds. Before you buy this type of equipment, it is important to get a general idea of the weight of the materials you will be lifting and transporting. A smaller weight capacity might mean having to make more trips to move a set amount of product.

Other features

You can find plenty of great additional features on mobile scissor lifts. Examples include:

• Built-in safety lines and emergency stop buttons
• Mechanical limits on speed while the platform is raised
• Auto-leveling
• Extendable work platforms
• Quick-charge batteries

Whatever your needs are, a qualified dealer can help you meet them safely and affordably. Find a reputable dealer using BuyerZone’s free request for quotes service. Just answer a few simple questions and we’ll connect you to multiple dealers in your area.