Serving Wisconsin and Upper Michigan Since 1962

HOW TO RENT AERIAL EQUIPMENT

This guide will help you in determining the proper equipment for your application, and answer many questions that you may have in selecting the proper aerial equipment for the job.

TYPE OF LIFT
To choose the proper piece of aerial equipment for your job, you need to identify what the job requires. If you need a large work platform and need to lift a lot of weight or several people, a scissor lift is what you will require. If you need to lift one person, extreme lifting heights, or need to reach out over or around objects, a boom lift is what you require. If you need to move material to extreme heights over extreme terrain, a telescopic boom lift will get the job done. Keep all of the conditions in mind for your job, and choosing the proper piece of equipment will save you money, time, and much aggravation.

LIFTING HEIGHT & CAPACITY
Determine the maximum height you will need to work comfortably. Make sure you take the measurement carefully. There is nothing worse than ending up eight feet short on one critical part of your job that you didn't take into account. Lifting heights are typically measured in feet, and range from 12 to 80 feet of height. The height also determines what type of equipment you will need and the limitations of that equipment.

You also need to determine the amount of weight you will need to lift. Several people, supplies and tools add up quickly. Overloading aerial equipment is VERY dangerous! Equipment can become top heavy and run the risk of falling over, resulting in injury or death. Figure your worst case situation for weight, and then add some. In this instance, more capacity than what you require is always better! Aerial equipment can typically lift from 300 to 1500 pounds.

EQUIPMENT DIMENSIONS
Aerial equipment comes in a variety of sizes. Generally, the greater the lifting height and capacity, the larger the equipment. Make sure the equipment can fit through your doors (width and height), fit down your aisles, make turns, and can be supported by the floor.

Also determine the platform dimensions that you will require. Large platforms limit the lifting height and increase the size and weight of the machine, but allow more people and gear to work at once. Some models of equipment have platforms that will extend or slide back and forth. Boom lifts have the ability to telescope out and/or around objects, but generally are limited in platform size and capacity. If you have any special circumstances for your job, let your aerial specialist know and they will advise you accordingly.

TERRAIN TYPE
What type of terrain does the equipment need to travel over? Concrete, blacktop, gravel, grass, or even dirt. Are there ramps or tight turns involved? Terrain that the truck wasn't designed for can stop it right in it's tracks! Rough terrain models are generally larger (bigger tires are required) and therefore less maneuverable. Equipment is available with four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and adjustable suspensions for uneven ground. Identify terrain problems (hills, ramps, mud, obstacles) before they cause you problems and have the right equipment to deal with them.

DELIVERY INFO
Is the drop off point equipped with a loading dock or ground drop?

POWER TYPE
Aerial equipment can be electric, LP, gas, or diesel powered. Generally, larger equipment uses internal combustion engines. On smaller equipment, you may have your choice of several types of power. Choose one that is appropriate for your job. Don't put a gas powered unit in a confined space!

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