What is Scissor Lifts?
Scissor lifts are a type of mobile work platform that can move your workers and equipment vertically, high above the ground.
Scissor lifts come in different sizes and may be powered by electricity, gas, or diesel. The electric ones are super for indoor work because they don’t produce exhaust fumes, and they’re quiet. If your job takes you outdoors on rough terrain, there are special scissor lifts built just for that environment, with sturdy wheels and powerful engines.
With so many options, finding the right scissor lift means thinking about the height you need to reach, how heavy the things are that you’ll be lifting, and where you’ll be working. Whether indoor or outdoor, there’s a scissor lift out there that’s perfect for your tasks.
Leading Manufacturers
When you’re exploring worker and material handling equipment options, you want the best in the business. Below, you’ll find details about the top manufacturers renowned for their quality and innovation in the scissor lift industry.
Beijing IHURMO Industry Co., Ltd.
- Founded in: 2001
- Address: Beiqijia Industrial Park, Changping District, Beijing 102204, China
- Website: https://ihurmo.com/
- Main Products: tower cranes, construction hoists, suspended platforms, mast climbing work platforms, scissor lifts, and other heavy-duty products.
Ihurmo is a prominent manufacturer in the aerial lift industry, specializing in the production of high-quality scissor lifts that prioritize both productivity and affordability. Ihurmo has quickly established itself as a reliable provider of lifting solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of various industries, including construction, maintenance, warehousing, and more.
Ihurmo’s scissor lifts are engineered to enhance operational efficiency and streamline workflows. Designed with advanced features such as intuitive controls, rapid deployment mechanisms, and stable lifting platforms, these scissor lifts enable operators to perform tasks with greater speed and accuracy.
The lifts are available in a range of working heights and load capacities, ensuring that businesses can select the perfect model to suit their specific project requirements. Additionally, Ihurmo incorporates ergonomic designs that reduce operator fatigue and improve overall safety, allowing for extended use without compromising performance.
One of Ihurmo’s standout qualities is its commitment to offering highly affordable scissor lifts without sacrificing quality or reliability. By optimizing manufacturing processes and leveraging cost-effective materials, Ihurmo is able to provide competitive pricing that makes its scissor lifts accessible to businesses of all sizes.
This focus on affordability ensures that companies can invest in top-tier lifting equipment without exceeding their budgets, thereby maximizing their return on investment. Ihurmo’s dedication to maintaining low production costs while delivering superior products sets them apart in a market where quality and price often compete.
If you are considering investing in scissor lifts for your project, please contact us.
JLG Industries
- Founded in: 1969
- Address: Warrensburg, Missouri, the United States
- Main Products: scissor lifts, boom lifts, telehandlers, truck-mounted lifts, and trailer-mounted lifts
Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Warrensburg, Missouri, JLG Industries is a leader in the design and manufacture of innovative access equipment and aerial work platforms (AWPs).
JLG’s extensive product lineup encompasses scissor lifts, boom lifts, telehandlers, truck-mounted lifts, and trailer-mounted lifts, each engineered with advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and operator comfort. Their scissor lifts are available in various configurations, from compact models ideal for indoor environments to high-radial lifts designed for outdoor and rough terrain applications, offering working heights that meet diverse lifting needs.
The company continuously integrates smart lift technologies such as digital controls, remote monitoring systems, and energy-efficient power solutions into its equipment. These advancements not only improve performance and ease of use but also contribute to sustainability by enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions in their internal combustion models.
Genie
- Founded in: 1996
- Address: Redmond, Washington, the United States
- Main Products: scissor lifts, electric lifts, boom lifts, and telehandlers.
Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Redmond, Washington, Genie is a prominent brand in the aerial lift industry. Over the decades, Genie has expanded its product lineup to include a wide range of aerial work platforms (AWPs), such as scissor lifts, boom lifts, and telehandlers, catering to both indoor and outdoor applications.
Genie is renowned for its commitment to innovation and safety, incorporating advanced features like intelligent controls, ergonomic designs, and robust safety mechanisms in its equipment.
Genie offers services in various industries, including construction, maintenance, warehousing, and entertainment.
Genie’s continuous advancements in technology and design ensure that it remains at the forefront of the aerial lift market.
Skyjack
- Founded in: 1985
- Address: Guelph, Ontario. Canada
- Main Products: different types of scissor lifts
Established in 1985 and based in Guelph, Ontario, Skyjack has become a leader in the aerial lift market with unique technology in the scissor lift industry.
Skyjack offers a portfolio of ten scissor lift types, available in electric, dual fuel (gas/LP), and diesel configurations. Their product range includes both indoor and outdoor scissor lifts, with lift heights varying from 13 feet to an impressive 64 feet.
The versatility of Skyjack’s offerings makes them suitable for diverse environments such as construction sites, warehouses, maintenance tasks, and specialized industrial applications.
In addition to its innovative products, Skyjack Scissor Lifts is committed to sustainability and worker safety. Skyjack’s dedication to excellence is further supported by its comprehensive customer service and support infrastructure, which includes training, maintenance, and parts availability.
Snorkel
- Founded in: 1959
- Address: 2009 Roseport Road, Elwood, KS 66024, USA
- Main Products: MEWPs and different types of lifts for indoor and outdoor use
Snorkel was founded in 1959. Over the years, the company successfully transitioned into manufacturing a wide array of mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs). Snorkel operates in over 50 countries, providing high-quality scissor lifts and other aerial lift solutions to a global market.
Snorkel’s product lineup includes both indoor and outdoor scissor lifts, which are available in electric and diesel power options. Their scissor lifts boast working heights ranging from 12 feet to 45 feet, catering to various applications such as construction, maintenance, warehousing, and event management.
Snorkel emphasizes durability and reliability in their equipment, ensuring that their lifts can withstand demanding environments and provide consistent performance.
In addition to scissor lifts, Snorkel offers a comprehensive range of MEWPs, including boom lifts and telehandlers, designed to meet the diverse needs of their customers.
The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its continuous development of advanced features like automated controls, enhanced safety systems, and ergonomic designs that improve operator comfort and efficiency.
Hy-Brid
- Founded in: 1991
- Address: 2009 Roseport Road, Elwood, KS 66024, USA
- Main Products: MEWPs and indoor and outdoor scissor lifts
Hy-Brid is the flagship brand for Custom Equipment, a company based in West Bend, Wisconsin, founded in 1981. Initially specializing in scissor lifts designed for mausoleum work, Custom Equipment introduced the Hy-Brid line in 2004 to address a market need for lightweight and maneuverable scissor lifts. This strategic move allowed Hy-Brid to carve out a niche in the aerial lift industry, offering solutions that combine portability with robust performance.
Today, Custom Equipment operates out of Richfield, Wisconsin, and continues to expand the Hy-Brid product line. Hy-Brid offers both push-around and powered electric scissor lifts, with working heights ranging from 16 feet to 25 feet. These lifts are engineered for ease of use, portability, and reliability, making them ideal for indoor environments such as warehouses, retail spaces, and maintenance facilities. The compact design of Hy-Brid scissor lifts ensures they can be easily maneuvered in tight spaces, enhancing operational efficiency and productivity.
Ballymore
- Founded in: 1943
- Address: Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, USA
- Main Products: small scissor lifts
Founded in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, shortly after World War II, Ballymore has been a significant contributor to the aerial lift industry for decades. The company is renowned for inventing the rolling safety ladder and pioneering hydraulic personnel lifts in the 1950s, innovations that have greatly enhanced worker safety and lift efficiency.
These advancements demonstrate Ballymore’s longstanding commitment to improving aerial lift technology and ensuring the safety of its operators.
Today, Ballymore offers a streamlined selection of four small scissor lifts, including a drivable mini, the standard/classic model, and a mini manual version. Each scissor lift in Ballymore’s lineup is electric-powered and specifically designed for indoor use, providing reliable and efficient lifting solutions for environments such as offices, retail spaces, and maintenance areas.
Their compact and user-friendly designs make Ballymore scissor lifts an ideal choice for tasks that require precise height adjustments within confined spaces.
While Ballymore specializes in indoor scissor lifts, they do not offer rough terrain scissor lifts, focusing instead on delivering high-quality, stable, and easy-to-operate lifts for indoor applications.
LPI Inc.
- Founded in: 1981
- Address: Johnson City, Tennesse, USA
- Main Products: personnel work platforms
Founded in 1981 and based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, LPI Inc. is a privately held company that specializes in the design and manufacture of personnel work platforms, including scissor lifts.
LPI Inc. offers a diverse range of scissor lifts that come in both manually positioned and powered configurations, utilizing pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric/hydraulic drive systems. This variety allows customers to select the most suitable lift based on their specific operational requirements, whether they need lightweight, portable models for quick tasks or heavy-duty lifts for extensive projects.
The company’s scissor lifts are engineered with safety and efficiency in mind, featuring robust construction, intuitive controls, and advanced safety features such as anti-slip platforms, stabilizers, and fail-safe mechanisms. LPI Inc. also emphasizes customization, offering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of different industries and applications.
MCT Industries
- Founded in: 1973
- Address: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Main Products: scissor lift platforms, rough terrain lifts
Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, MCT Industries specializes in manufacturing specialty scissor lift platforms designed for the aviation and defense industries. All of MCT’s scissor lifts are proudly made in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards and robust performance tailored to the demanding requirements of their specialized clientele.
MCT Industries offers a wide range of scissor lifts available in both electric and diesel configurations, providing flexibility to meet various operational needs. Their product lineup includes self-propelled models for enhanced mobility and push-around models for more controlled environments.
One of their standout offerings is the split deck scissor lift, specifically designed for servicing wide-body airplanes, allowing for greater access and maneuverability in tight spaces.
The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its continuous development of specialized features and customization options that address the unique challenges faced by its customers in the aviation and defense sectors.
MCT Industries’ scissor lifts are built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring reliability and durability in high-stress environments.
Pettibone
- Founded in: 1881
- Address: Baraga, Michigan, USA
- Main Products: a diverse range of scissor lifts
Established in 1881, Pettibone is the oldest scissor lift company on this list, with a long-standing legacy in the material handling and aerial lift industry.
Based in Baraga, Michigan, Pettibone initially made its mark by inventing the first forward-reaching rough terrain handler forklift, revolutionizing the way heavy materials are moved and handled in various industries.
Beyond forklifts, Pettibone offers a diverse range of scissor lifts, with eight different models designed to meet a variety of needs. Their scissor lifts cater to both indoor and outdoor environments, featuring working heights that span from 18 feet to 46 feet. Pettibone’s indoor scissor lifts are optimized for stability and precision in controlled settings such as warehouses, retail spaces, and manufacturing facilities. Meanwhile, their outdoor models are built to handle rough terrain, providing durability and reliability on construction sites, industrial complexes, and other challenging environments.
Pettibone is committed to innovation and quality, incorporating advanced technologies and robust construction into their scissor lifts to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Their products feature user-friendly controls, enhanced safety features, and energy-efficient power systems, making them a preferred choice for businesses seeking reliable aerial lift solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key factors to consider when choosing a scissor lift?
Think about the job’s height requirements, the lift’s indoor or outdoor use, and the ground conditions. Electric models are good for indoors, while diesel models fit outdoor work better.
What safety features should I look for in a scissor lift?
Look for lifts with guardrails, emergency stop buttons, and tilt sensors. These features help prevent falls, uncontrolled movements, and tip-overs.
How do I compare pricing between different scissor lift brands?
To compare prices, check the warranty, included features, and any added services. Sometimes a higher price comes with better quality or more support that could save you money in the long run.
What are the maintenance requirements for various scissor lifts?
Maintenance needs vary but include regular checks on batteries, hydraulic systems, and controls. Choose a lift with accessible parts and clear maintenance guidelines.
How do I determine the right size and capacity for my scissor lift needs?
Consider the weight and size of the loads you’ll lift, and add some buffer to avoid overloading. Also, make sure the lift fits through doors or aisles in your work area.
What are the environmental considerations when choosing a scissor lift?
Electric scissor lifts are eco-friendly with no emissions for indoor use. If outside, you might need a diesel-powered lift, but try to find models with cleaner emissions.