Choose a scissor lift when you need straight-up access on a firm, level floor with a large deck. Choose a knuckle boom to reach up and over obstacles, and a stick boom for maximum horizontal outreach. Working height is roughly platform height plus 2 metres. Booms of 11 m or more need a WP High Risk Work Licence.
Work out the working height
Working height is roughly platform height plus 2 m. Measure to the highest point you must work at, not the ceiling line.
Check outreach
If you must reach over a roof edge, awning, racking or plant, you need horizontal outreach. Knuckle booms go up-and-over; stick booms reach further out.
Respect the floor
Compare wheel loads with slab capacity, especially on suspended slabs, mezzanines and car parks. Spider lifts spread their load across outriggers and suit delicate floors.
Indoor or outdoor?
Electric machines with non-marking tyres suit indoor work; rough-terrain diesel machines suit sites and uneven ground. Wind limits apply outdoors—check the machine's rated wind speed.
Common questions
Do I need a licence for a boom lift?
Booms with a boom length of 11 m or more require a WP High Risk Work Licence. Smaller booms and scissor lifts require training and competency.
What size scissor lift do I need for a 6 m ceiling?
A 19 ft (about 5.8 m platform, 7.8 m working height) electric scissor lift is typically enough for a 6 m ceiling.