Selecting Scissor Lift Size and Weight Capacity

Scissor Lift Size and Weight Capacity overview. Scissor lifts are platforms designed to move people and/or goods vertically. Though the basic design and functionality are the same, scissor lifts are widely used in many industrial and commercial applications due to their versatility and safety features. Scissor lift sizes and weights and scissor lift max height vary depending on the industry sector, project type, and customization needs of the client. There are two main categories that scissor lifts fall into;

• Electric scissor lifts: designed for small spaces, indoor use, and narrow spaces
• Rough terrain scissor lifts: designed for outdoor use, can handle uneven surfaces and can accommodate multiple workers.

The power source choices for Scissor lifts can be hydraulic, diesel, electric, or pneumatic.

• A Hydraulic Scissor Lift is elevated using engine-driven or hand-operated hydraulic systems.
• Diesel scissor lifts are commonly used for outdoor work to allow for ventilation due to the fumes released from the diesel engines.
• Pneumatic scissor lifts utilize air pressure to power their lifting mechanism.
• Electric scissor lifts utilize electricity or batteries and are the preferred choice for indoor work.

With the continual innovation in materials and design, the tallest scissor lifts can now elevate to heights of more than 120 feet with load-carrying capacities of over 1,000 lbs. Even though scissor lifts can reach such heights, this is not the normal operating range of most scissor lift applications. If you need something more specialized, it’s advisable to find a company that can custom design and manufacture a scissor lift to meet your scissors lift weight and scissor lift sizes operating requirements.

Safety is another crucial factor in selecting your desired scissor lift. In Canada, specific regulations govern aerial lift safety. We have created a simplified scissor lift safety guide to help you navigate the scissor lift safety landscape.

Thanks to advanced engineering, you don’t have to choose between a lightweight scissor lift and a high scissor lift; both combinations are possible without sacrificing safety. We cover all the scissor lift tips you need to purchase the right equipment for your company below.