Buying a Scissor Lift

Scissor lifts are great for when you need to safely and efficiently work in hard-to-reach places. These versatile pieces of equipment can easily be adjusted to different heights according to your needs. Of course, finding a scissor lift that works for you is not always as easy as it sounds. That is why Melton Machinery & Material Handling has created this scissor lift buying guide. 

Working Height and Platform Height

The first thing to take into account when choosing a scissor lift is the working height, which is the height you will need to be able to reach on the job site. You will also need to consider the platform height, which is the vertical distance between the ground and the floor of the platform when the lift is extended the furthest it can go. Your ideal scissor lift should have a platform height of around six feet lower than your working height to account for the height of the person working on the platform. 

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is another important factor to consider. Besides just the weight of the operator, your scissor lift will also need to be able to handle the weight of any tools and equipment necessary to complete the job. Since this weight is not always easy to estimate and overloading your scissor lift is dangerous, it is usually best to go for a model that has a slightly higher weight capacity than you think you will need. 

Platform Size

Finding the right platform size can be tricky. If a standard scissor lift platform will not offer enough room, you can add an expansion deck to your model. However, bear in mind that the wider you make the platform, the less stable your scissor lift will be, especially when fully extended. 

Power Supply

Scissor lifts come in both electric and diesel-powered models. Electric-powered lifts use batteries that need to be recharged, which can be inconvenient at job sites without easy access to power outlets. However, while diesel-powered scissor lifts are more powerful and do not need to be charged, they also produce exhaust fumes, which can be dangerous if you are working in an enclosed environment. 

For more information about scissor lifts and help finding a model that works for you, visit Melton Machinery & Material Handling in Garden City, Idaho. We offer parts ordering, servicing, and financing. We are proud to serve the Southwest Idaho area, and we hope to see you soon.