How High Can a Scissor Lift Go? Exploring Lift Heights and What You Need to Know
When you think of a scissor lift, you probably picture one of those bulky platforms steadily rising to help workers reach higher ground. But exactly how high can a scissor lift go? The answer isn’t as simple as you might think, as the height varies depending on the lift type and its specific purpose. Let’s break it down.
1. Standard Scissor Lifts: The Basics
Scissor lifts are usually designed to reach heights ranging from 20 to 60 feet, which is enough for most common maintenance and construction tasks. This height range is ideal for tasks like electrical work, window cleaning, and even warehouse shelving.
- 20 to 30 feet: Perfect for those general indoor tasks like changing light bulbs or accessing higher shelves in a warehouse.
- 40 to 60 feet: These are the go-to for more expansive jobs, like maintenance on taller buildings or large-scale outdoor construction.
2. Going Above and Beyond: High-Reach Models
If you’re looking to go even higher, there are models that can take you well past the 60-foot mark. Some scissor lifts are designed specifically for elevated construction projects, film shoots, or other specialized needs.
- 80 to 100 feet: These heavy-duty scissor lifts can provide extra reach for high-rise construction work or large-scale maintenance projects.
- 120 feet: For those rare, skyscraper-style jobs, certain specialized scissor lifts can lift you up to a jaw-dropping height of 120 feet. These are typically customized for extreme applications, where both workers and materials need to be elevated to extraordinary levels.
3. Customizing for Weight and Reach
Of course, reaching higher elevations isn’t just about height—it’s about capacity too. As you move up to higher lifts, weight limits increase to accommodate both workers and materials.
- Electric Scissor Lifts: These tend to be more compact and are suited for indoor use with more modest height and weight capacities (up to about 60 feet).
- Diesel Scissor Lifts: These bad boys are built for rough terrain and larger outdoor tasks. Their height can stretch up to 60 feet, but their weight capacity can be far greater—helping you tackle more demanding tasks at height.
4. Other Factors to Consider
When choosing a scissor lift, remember that your choice of height should also take into account factors like platform size, terrain type, and jobsite conditions. Some scissor lifts are designed for smooth indoor surfaces, while others are rugged enough to tackle uneven or sloped ground.
So, how high can a scissor lift go? The highest models can reach well over 100 feet—but for most common applications, you’ll be looking at the 20 to 60-foot range.
