Step 1: Working Height
Working height is the most important spec — and the one most often gotten wrong. "Working height" means the height a worker can reach standing on the platform with arms extended overhead, which is platform height plus ~6 ft.
Measure the highest point you actually need to touch — ceiling, light fixture, beam, sign. Add 6 ft. Round up to the next standard size: 19 ft, 26 ft, 32 ft, or 40 ft.
- 19 ft platform → 25 ft working height (covers 20–22 ft ceilings)
- 26 ft platform → 32 ft working height (warehouse high-bay lighting)
- 32 ft platform → 38 ft working height (3-story interior atriums)
- 40 ft platform → 46 ft working height (the tallest standard size)
Step 2: Electric vs Rough Terrain
Electric scissor lifts (also called slab lifts) are battery-powered, quiet, zero-emission, and rated for hard, level surfaces — concrete, asphalt, finished warehouse floors. They're the only lifts allowed inside occupied buildings.
Rough terrain (RT) scissor lifts run on diesel or dual-fuel engines, ride on pneumatic tires with 4WD, and tolerate slopes, dirt, gravel, and unpaved job sites. They cost roughly 2x more than equivalent electric models and can't be used indoors.
Step 3: Platform Capacity and Size
Capacity is the maximum weight the platform supports — workers plus tools plus materials. Standard capacity is 500 lbs (two workers, light tools). Common upgrades are 700, 1,000, and 1,250 lbs.
Platform size matters separately. Standard widths are 30, 32, and 46 inches. Wider platforms hold more material but won't fit through standard 36-inch doorways.
Step 4: Brand and Powertrain
Genie, Skyjack and JLG own the U.S. scissor lift market. All three are reliable. Differences:
- Skyjack — simplest electrical and hydraulic systems, easiest to service yourself
- Genie — largest dealer parts network, strong resale value
- JLG — strongest rough terrain lineup, premium controls
Step 5: New, Used, or Refurbished
New units carry 1–2 year factory warranties, ship with the latest ANSI A92.20 safety features, and qualify for the longest financing terms. Pricing premium is ~40–60% over comparable used.
Used units from a reputable dealer ship with current ANSI inspections and 30-day mechanical warranties. Best value if you'll own the unit 3+ years. Look for under 2,500 hours and prior single-owner or fleet history.
Refurbished units sit between the two — used iron with documented dealer reconditioning (new batteries, tires, controls, paint) and an extended warranty. Pricing is typically 65–75% of new.