Upright Aerial Lifts: Essential Buying Tips

Written by: Steve Thompson

An upright aerial lift is essential for many businesses in a wide range of industries, from construction to civil engineering. These powerful machines are convenient for lifting both people and materials to a desired elevation, but it is important that you choose a lift that will fulfill all of your business needs.

Upright aerial lift characteristics

Strength and durability: Aerial lift manufacturers all use different specifications for their lifts, which means that a discerning business must do research before buying. For example, how strong must the lift be at its maximum height to serve your purpose? If the platform isn't sufficiently sturdy at 50 feet, you could cause injury or property damage by using at that height.

Drivability: If you will be using a mobile upright aerial lift, it is important for you to purchase a machine that is drivable at the height at which you will use it. In the above example, you were looking for a lift that is sturdy and reliable at 50 feet, but what if you need to drive it at 50 feet as well? Make sure to discuss this type of maneuverability with the manufacturer.

Job site conditions: An upright aerial lift needs to be reliable regardless of the job site conditions in which it is used. If you will be using the lift over rocky, muddy or otherwise inhospitable terrain, you'll want the machine to come equipped with a hydraulic system and grade ability that will handle those conditions. You might want to test drive a few machines to make sure you've chosen one that can handle your work load.

Furthermore, you might consider buying a lift that has 4-wheel drive, which will make rough conditions more manageable and decrease the chances of getting stuck.

Platform height: One of the difficulties with using an upright aerial lift is the platform height, which varies considerably depending on the manufacturer. If the platform is too high, it will be more difficult for people to mount the platform and for workers to load materials. When looking for an aerial lift, make sure you pay attention to the platform height.

Turning radius: If your business requires your lifts to maneuver in small circles on the job, a tight turning radius is essential. A dual-link steering system, for example, is ideal in these machines, and will make working in tight quarters more manageable.

Warranty: Finally, it is never a good idea to purchase a lift without a manufacturer's warranty. This document can be a lifesaver should anything go wrong with your lift after purchase, and is prudent any time you are purchasing expensive equipment. Aerial lift sales are usually covered with a 3-5 year warranty.

The right dealer makes all the difference when you’re buying an aerial lift, so it’s important to interview several before you make a purchase. BuyerZone can help you get started: just fill out a free price quote request form and we’ll match you to multiple dealers who can meet your exact needs.