When it comes to selecting aerial work platforms, it’s not just about finding a reliable and safety-conscious rental company—it’s about choosing the right equipment for the job. Picking the perfect lift can save you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle. To avoid costly mistakes, let’s break down the key differences between Knuckle Boom Lifts and Boom Lifts before you make a decision.
Knuckle Boom: The Flexible “Obstacle Dodger”
Also known as articulated boom lifts, knuckle booms have one key advantage—they can move upwards and outwards, allowing you to maneuver around obstacles like machinery, walls, and tight corners.
Think of a knuckle boom like an acrobat—it bends and flexes thanks to its two hinged sections, giving you superior reach in tricky areas while keeping a small footprint on the ground.
Best for:
✅ Jobs with obstacles that require reaching up and over
✅ Tight workspaces where space is limited
✅ Indoor and outdoor projects (available in electric and diesel models)
GMH offers diesel knuckle booms with up to 21 meters of reach and compact electric models for indoor use as small as 6.3 meters.
Boom Lift: The Straight Shooter
Boom lifts, often called cherry pickers, offer better maneuverability than scissor lifts but lack the up-and-over functionality of knuckle booms. Instead, they are perfect for situations where you need to extend straight up from the base of the lift.
If you’re working on tasks like building maintenance, tree trimming, or billboard repairs, and don’t need to navigate around obstacles, a boom lift is your best bet.
Best for:
✅ High-reach tasks that require straight-up elevation
✅ Open job sites with no obstacles in the way
✅ Work that requires extra height (GMH offers models up to 43 meters)
GMH offers boom lift rentals ranging from 14 to 43 meters, with eco-friendly electric models for indoor work and rugged diesel 4×4 options for outdoor job sites.
How to Choose? Avoid Costly Mistakes!
Every job site is unique, and choosing the wrong lift can waste time and money. The good news? GMH provides detailed specifications and downloadable diagrams online, so you can plan ahead and pick the best machine for your needs.
At the end of the day, only you or your site manager knows the terrain and work requirements best. But renting instead of buying gives you the flexibility to switch equipment as your job demands change—without the headache of maintenance and storage costs.
Still unsure? Reach out to a rental expert to get tailored advice and ensure you’re using the right machine for maximum efficiency and savings!