Introduction: Picking the Right Lift for the Job
When it comes to working at heights, not all aerial lifts are created equal. Scissor lifts, cherry pickers, and boom lifts each serve different purposes, and choosing the wrong one can lead to delays, higher costs, and even safety risks.
So, how do you decide which lift is best for your project? This guide breaks down the key differences to help you make the right choice.
Key Factors to Consider
Before selecting an aerial lift, ask yourself these questions:
1️⃣ How much weight do you need to lift?
2️⃣ How high do you need to reach?
3️⃣ Will you be working indoors or outdoors?
4️⃣ Do you need to reach over obstacles, or just go straight up?
The answers will determine whether a scissor lift, cherry picker, or boom lift is the right fit.
Scissor Lifts: The Workhorse of Vertical Lifting
A scissor lift moves straight up and down and is best for jobs that require stability and higher load capacity.
✅ Pros of Scissor Lifts
- Higher Load Capacity – Can lift up to 1,000 lbs or more, making them ideal for multiple workers and equipment.
- Stable Work Platform – Provides a secure base for construction, maintenance, and warehouse tasks.
- Indoor & Outdoor Use – Electric models work well indoors, while diesel versions handle rough terrain.
❌ Cons of Scissor Lifts
- Limited Reach – Maximum height is around 50 feet.
- No Horizontal Movement – Must be placed directly under the work area.
Best for:
✔ Warehouses and storage facilities
✔ Ceiling repairs and HVAC installation
✔ Window cleaning and signage work
Cherry Pickers: The Flexible Solution
A cherry picker (also known as a boom lift or aerial work platform) has an extendable arm that provides more flexibility than a scissor lift.
✅ Pros of Cherry Pickers
- Greater Reach – Extends both vertically and horizontally.
- Compact Design – Works well in narrow or hard-to-reach spaces.
- Ideal for Maintenance – Used for electrical work, painting, and tree trimming.
❌ Cons of Cherry Pickers
- Lower Load Capacity – Typically supports one worker and minimal tools.
- Less Stability – Smaller platform compared to scissor lifts.
Best for:
✔ Utility and power line maintenance
✔ Tree trimming and landscaping
✔ Light installation and exterior painting
Boom Lifts: The Ultimate High-Reach Machine
Boom lifts provide the highest reach and best maneuverability, making them the go-to choice for extreme heights.
✅ Pros of Boom Lifts
- Highest Reach – Some models extend up to 210 feet!
- Full Maneuverability – Articulating booms reach over and around obstacles.
- Ideal for Large-Scale Projects – Perfect for construction, industrial maintenance, and bridge inspections.
❌ Cons of Boom Lifts
- Expensive – Costs more than scissor lifts and cherry pickers.
- Lower Weight Capacity – Limited to 500 lbs or less.
Best for:
✔ High-rise construction and maintenance
✔ Bridge and tower inspections
✔ Large-scale industrial projects
Comparison Chart: Scissor Lift vs. Cherry Picker vs. Boom Lift
| Feature | Scissor Lift | Cherry Picker | Boom Lift |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Height | Up to 50 ft | Up to 100 ft | Up to 210 ft |
| Horizontal Reach | None | Moderate | Maximum |
| Load Capacity | Up to 1,000 lbs | 300-500 lbs | 250-500 lbs |
| Stability | High | Moderate | Lower |
| Best for | Warehouses, construction, maintenance | Power lines, painting, tree trimming | High-rise construction, industrial sites |
Which Lift Should You Choose?
- For stable, high-capacity lifting: Choose a scissor lift.
- For flexible height and reach: Go with a cherry picker.
- For extreme heights and maximum reach: Use a boom lift.
Picking the right lift saves time, improves efficiency, and enhances safety on your job site.