Choosing a boom lift to perform regular business tasks can be a challenge – the fact is that before settling on a particular model, you will have to take into account all its technical characteristics, assess the acceptable operating conditions, and, of course, compare its cost with your budget. That is why we decided to present you with a guide that includes the main steps on the way to choosing the right model of the boom lift.
Step 1: Determine the Right Type of Boom Lift for Your Needs
Boom lifts are designed to perform high-altitude work in hard-to-reach places; however, they can be articulating, crawling, lightweight, straight, and towable, and have different basket sizes.
For example, articulating boom lifts have a sectional design that is held together by hinges for added flexibility, so they are often used on construction sites, in building maintenance, and for tree trimming. Crawling boom lifts have tracks instead of wheels, which provides them with super-cross-country ability and makes them the best choice for work on unstable surfaces. As for lightweight boom lifts, this type of equipment is constructed from lightweight materials, which makes them extremely easy to transport and is suitable for sensitive surfaces (for example, indoors). Straight boom lifts have a rigid, extendable boom, providing maximum lifting height. Finally, towable boom lifts can be attached to a vehicle for transport.
Ultimately, these characteristics determine whether a particular boom lift model can provide the required lifting height, access to difficult areas, maneuverability to the desired locations, and ease of transportation.
Step 2: Estimate the Maximum Lifting Height and Load Capacity
Now, you can begin to assess the maximum available lifting height that is necessary to perform your business tasks – this value will need to be compared with the parameters of the models you are considering. Next, you will have to determine what weight will need to be lifted, including materials, tools, and, actually, living personnel, and compare this value with the technical characteristics of the selected boom lift models.
Step 3: Consider What the Operating Conditions Will Be
At this step, you need to evaluate the type of surface on which the boom lift will operate – for level floors, it is worth considering lightweight models with rubber wheels, and for uneven and open areas – diesel and tracked models. If we talk about work in closed spaces, here it is worth paying attention to boom lifts with a low noise level and those that do not produce harmful emissions (usually these are electric models). At the same time, for work in open areas, diesel lifts are better suited. Finally, you will need to make sure that the equipment you choose can be safely operated in your climate conditions.
Step 4: Think About How the Boom Lift Will Be Powered
This step involves determining the optimal power supply type for the boom lift — in particular, electric lifts are environmentally friendly, have a low noise level during operation and, in general, are ideal for indoor use.
As for diesel boom lifts, they have increased power and are suitable for heavy-duty operation in open areas. Note that there are also hybrid models that combine the advantages of the two types described above.
Step 5: Check for Safety Compliance
Modern boom lifts are usually equipped with overload sensors (they block operation when the permissible load is exceeded), stabilization systems (to fix the boom lift in a stable position on an uneven surface), as well as ergonomic controls. Ultimately, you will need to analyze the recommendations of industry standards in force in your region to choose a model that will fully meet them.
Step 6: Estimate the Cost of Ownership
In addition to the initial cost of the boom lift, you will also need to consider potential maintenance costs, the cost of spare parts, the cost of energy or fuel, and the service life of the equipment. As a result, you will understand whether it is rational to have this type of equipment in your fleet or whether it is better to rent it.
Step 7: Find Out If Parts and Service Are Available
Now, you will need to make sure that spare parts are easily accessible (i.e. is there a dealer in your area) and that there are official service centers for the boom lift model you have chosen. By considering these aspects in advance, you will be able to minimize equipment downtime.
Step 8: Analyze Customer Overviews
Finally, you will need to check reviews from real users to clarify the reputation of the brands.
For example, popular boom lift manufacturers such as JLG, Genie, and Haulotte offer long-term warranties, quality certificates, convenient payment terms, and prompt service.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a reliable boom lift for sale at the best price, you can visit the Zuma Sales website. Here, you can also get a free consultation from experts to be sure of your choice.
