The most basic question you need to answer when choosing an aerial lift is how high you need it to reach. Measure the height of the shelves you need to access, the equipment you need to service, or the location of the work you need to do, and you'll be on your way to a smart aerial lift buying decision.

Lift heights are measured to the platform height – how high the floor of the lift platform (or bucket) goes. The working height is 6' above that: a lift with a platform height of 19' will enable you to work at heights up to 25'.

Next, consider lifting capacity: how much weight the lift needs to support. Also known as operating capacity, this can range from 300 to over 2,000 lbs. Many standard lifts have capacities of 500 to 700 lbs, enough for two workers and their equipment.

There is a limiting factor on height and capacity, though: lifts with greater capacities are also physically larger machines. If your lift is for indoor use, make sure it can move through any doorways or tight spaces. Even outdoor lifts have to fit through gates or on trailers at times. Remember to balance your requirements for height and capacity with the physical constraints of your workspace and the space leading to it.

Power choices
Most aerial lifts are self-propelled, using electricity, gas, diesel, or propane as a power source. Indoor lifts are almost exclusively electric. Most outdoor lifts run on gas or diesel for greater power and easy refueling without having to recharge for hours. Dual fuel lifts provide more flexibility by allowing you to switch between gasoline for outdoor use and propane for indoor use.

Slab or rough terrain?
The industry divides aerial lifts into two major categories: slab and rough terrain lifts. Slab lifts are designed to be used indoors or on flat, smooth surfaces. Rough terrain lifts can work on uneven ground. The main differences are in the power systems and tires (read more about tires in Features.)

Slab lifts are often electric powered so they can be used indoors and have non-marking solid rubber tires. Rough terrain lifts are more commonly gas, diesel, or dual-fuel powered, and usually have pneumatic tires for better stability and traction.