MEWP Selection Calculator — Scissor Lift & Boom Selection

Scissor lifts raise the platform vertically only — no horizontal outreach. They offer large platform areas (good for 2+ people) and high load capacity (typically around 350kg on compact electric machines up to roughly 680kg on large diesel rough-terrain machines). Boom lifts (articulating or telescopic) provide both vertical and horizontal reach, allowing access to difficult positions. Boom platforms are smaller (1-2 person, around 230kg typical) but can reach over obstacles. Always check the specific machine's rated platform capacity, as it can be lower when the platform extension deck is in use.

IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) categories combine a number (chassis) and a letter (platform movement). 1 = static (stabilisers/outriggers down), 3 = mobile (driven from the platform); A = vertical, B = boom. So: 3a — mobile vertical (self-propelled scissor lifts); 3b — mobile boom (self-propelled articulating/telescopic booms); 1a — static vertical (including push-around vertical, PAV); 1b — static boom (outrigger-stabilised, vehicle- and trailer-mounted booms). Your PAL card lists each category you are trained on — match it to the machine you are operating. The course is typically 1 day. Under LOLER and PUWER, operators must be competent, and IPAF training demonstrates that competence.

MEWPs require firm, level ground. On soft ground, you must use spreader plates (typically 1m × 1m × 25mm steel plates or timber mats) to reduce ground pressure. Check the machine's ground bearing pressure against the soil capacity. Tracked MEWPs and spider booms are designed for soft ground with lower ground pressure. Never operate on slopes beyond the machine's rated limit.

Always compare the machine's overall width to your CLEAR opening, not the nominal door size — a 762mm door leaf gives only about 726mm clear once you allow for the frame and stops. Micro/narrow-aisle electric scissor lifts are around 0.69-0.76m wide, so fitting through a single doorway is marginal: check the specific machine width against your measured clear opening before hiring. Standard scissor lifts are 1.2-1.8m wide. Boom lifts range from about 1.5m (compact) to 2.5m (large telescopic). For site access, also allow for transport width plus turning space.

Indicative UK weekly hire rates (2026) — these vary widely by supplier and region, so treat them as ballpark estimates and get quotes: electric scissor lift (6-8m) roughly £150-250/week; diesel scissor lift (10-15m) roughly £350-600/week; articulating boom (12-18m) roughly £500-900/week; telescopic boom (20-30m) roughly £800-1,500/week. Delivery and collection is extra (typically £100-300). Weekly hire is usually much cheaper per day than daily rates.