Boom Lift Hire

Choosing which boom lifts & cherry pickers to hire

A boom lift is a type of aerial lift that is ideal for projects where both horizontal and vertical reach are required. Boom lifts allow a work platform on a hydraulic arm to rise up over obstacles to reach hard-to-access areas. Boom lifts are commonly known as cherry pickers.

Cherry pickers are available in a variety of specifications. Articulated boom lifts are best suited for applications where the work platform needs to reach up and over obstacles. Telescopic boom lifts give the greatest horizontal reach and have a capacity for heavier loads.

Boom lifts are also available with a wide range of power options. Electric booms offer a quiet and efficient solution for indoor or busy working environments as well as providing zero-low emissions. Diesel booms offer maximum flexibility for external applications such as steel erection and construction sites. Hybrid and Bi-Energy options are also available.

Articulated electric boom lifts

Battery powered articulated booms are perfect for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications. Electric booms are supplied with non-marking tyres. Articulating boom lifts enable up and over access and are extensively used for tasks such as facilities management, cleaning, and point of service delivery.

The Z30N Genie articulated electric boom lift is ideal for applications where you need a narrow machine with a compact chassis to access aisles and tight spaces. This Genie electric lift has zero tail swing and front arm swing in raised and stowed positions.

Electric mast boom lifts

Electric mast booms offer a narrow turning radius allowing easy access into small spaces. With 360° rotation, mast booms give users versatility when working indoors on applications such as building maintenance and warehousing.

The Haulotte Star 10 vertical mast with features such as a narrow turning circle and a positive/negative job is ideal for working in places where access is limited. The Star 10 has a low total weight so is easy to transport and is kitted out with safety items such as a motion alarm, flashing beacon and an anti-entrapment system.

Telescopic diesel boom lifts

Diesel telescopic booms are designed to support safe and effective working at height outdoors. The advantages of diesel telescopic lifts (sometimes called stick booms) include access to greater working heights and increased safe working load that allows up to three operators on some models.

The Genie S45X telescopic boom has the drive speed and traction to get around rough terrain and jobsites. The S45X shows how a stick boom gives easy manoeuvrability and positioning in small spaces with a 360˚continuous rotation turntable.

Articulated diesel boom lifts

Diesel articulated boom lifts are ideal for up and over powered access with both a horizontal and vertical reach perfect for applications in industries such as construction and building maintenance.

The Z45DJX Genie articulated diesel boom illustrates how an engine-powered articulating cherry picker gives the power for rugged outdoor construction and industrial use.

Bi-energy boom lifts

Bi-Energy booms include an energy/battery system with a generator that can charge batteries during operation, offering a full-day’s work on an overnight charge to give you the ability to work in a wide range of environments.

The Niftylift HR15NBS is a self-propelled cherry picker that combines the eco-friendliness of bi-energy machines with an impressive working envelope and light weight which makes this boom both easy to manoeuvre and cheap to transport.

Hybrid boom lifts

Hybrid booms are environmentally conscious work platforms that can operate on diesel and automatically use their electric motor to boost power whenever needed. Hybrid boom lifts such as the Niftylift HR28H can operate on battery alone, making this unit ideal for indoor applications.

Boom Lift & Cherry Picker FAQ

What is an articulating boom lift?

An articulating boom lift is a versatile aerial work platform that uses a jointed arm to reach difficult-to-access areas. Its unique design allows the boom to bend at multiple points, enabling it to manoeuvre around obstacles and reach over structures.

What projects is a boom lift used for?

Boom lifts are versatile tools used in a variety of industries. Here are some common applications:

• Construction
• Window cleaning
• Painting
• Sign installation
• Tree trimming
• Maintenance work
• Electrical work
• Plumbing repairs 

Which boom lift has the longest reach?

The JLG 1850SJP Diesel Telescopic Boom Lift boasts an impressive working height of 58.56 meters, making it one of the highest-reaching boom lifts available.

What is the difference between a boom lift and a scissor lift?

A scissor lift is a type of aerial work platform that extends vertically, similar to a pair of scissors. This makes them ideal for working directly overhead, such as on ceilings or high-level platforms. 

A boom lift, on the other hand, has a jointed arm that can extend horizontally and vertically, allowing it to reach a wider range of areas, including those that are difficult to access.

Can boom lifts be used indoors?

Yes, certain types of boom lifts can be used indoors. Electric boom lifts are specifically designed for indoor use as they produce minimal emissions and noise.

What are the key features to consider when selecting a boom lift?

When selecting a boom lift, consider the following key features:

• Working Height and Reach: Ensure the lift can reach the desired height and distance
• Platform Capacity: Consider the weight capacity needed for the job
• Power Source: Choose between diesel, electric, or hybrid, depending on the environment and power availability
• Outrigger Configuration: Evaluate the outrigger system for stability and versatility
• Consider the turning radius and overall manoeuvrability of the lift
• Control System: A user-friendly control system can enhance operator efficiency and safety
• Maintenance Requirements: Factor in maintenance costs and ease of maintenance
• Safety Features: Look for features like automatic emergency stops, load sensing, and audible alarms

If you’re still unsure, speak to one of our friendly team members. 

What types of cherry pickers are there?

There are several types of cherry pickers, each suited for specific tasks and working environments:

• Small Cherry Pickers: Compact and lightweight, these cherry pickers are ideal for indoor use in tight spaces. They are often powered by batteries or electric motors, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments
  
  
• Truck-Mounted Cherry Pickers: Mounted on a truck chassis, providing excellent mobility and lifting capacity. Often used for large-scale projects, such as utility work or bridge maintenance
  
  
• Spider Lifts: Compact cherry pickers with stabilisers that extend outwards, allowing them to work in tight spaces and on uneven terrain. Ideal for indoor work, such as warehouse maintenance or theatre rigging
  
  
• Electric Cherry Pickers: Electric cherry pickers are environmentally friendly, quiet, and have lower maintenance costs compared to diesel or petrol models

Hire a cherry picker with Nationwide Platforms today.