A Quick Guide to the Different Types of Construction Lifts

In high-rise and large-scale industrial projects, the vertical movement of people and materials is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. That’s why construction lifts play a central role in job site efficiency. Choosing the right lift for construction can make the difference between costly delays and a smooth workflow.

Common Types of Construction Lifts

Different lift systems are designed to meet specific vertical access requirements on large-scale construction and industrial sites:

• Scissor Lifts – Provides vertical access with a stable platform, commonly used for indoor installation and maintenance work.
• Telescopic Boom Lifts offer extended horizontal outreach and height, which is ideal for exterior tasks like façade or structural inspections.
• Articulating Boom Lifts – Feature jointed arms for maneuvering around structures and accessing hard-to-reach spaces.
• Vertical Mast Lifts – Compact and efficient for indoor applications where space is limited and straight vertical access is needed.
• Towable Boom Lifts – Portable options for projects with light-duty needs across multiple locations.
• Construction Elevators are purpose-built systems for transporting workers and materials in high-rise or industrial environments. They are engineered for demanding vertical transport over extended timeframes and offer higher load capacities than mobile alternatives.

When to Use Each Lift Type

Boom lifts are often used in exterior work where height and horizontal reach are required—such as façade work or overhead installations. Scissor lifts are commonly deployed indoors or where precise vertical access is needed. On the other hand, construction elevators are ideal for high-rise building projects or industrial facilities where frequent, heavy transport is needed over extended periods.

Capacity and Height Capabilities

Lifts vary significantly in both their height reach and load capacities. A scissor lift may reach up to 50 feet and carry several hundred kilograms. Depending on the model, it can extend up to 185 feet. Construction elevators offer far more excellent payload support and can scale tall buildings efficiently while meeting strict safety and usage standards.

Factors That Influence Lift Selection

Selecting the right lift system requires evaluating several critical factors specific to each project’s needs:

• Project Scope and Duration
  Determine whether the project requires temporary access for short-term tasks or long-term, repeated vertical transportation. Longer projects typically benefit from more permanent vertical access systems.
• Site Layout and Accessibility
  Assess the space available for equipment installation and operation. Confined sites may require compact vertical access solutions that don't disrupt surrounding structures or activity zones.
• Required Height and Vertical Travel
  The total height that needs to be accessed plays a significant role. Systems with higher travel capabilities—like construction elevators—are more efficient for taller buildings and industrial facilities.
• Load Type and Frequency
  Consider how often personnel or equipment will be transported and how much weight needs to be carried. Frequent, heavy usage demands a robust lift with dependable performance.
• Terrain and Ground Conditions
  Ground stability and slope impact the suitability of certain mobile lift types. Fixed vertical access systems are generally preferred for stable, high-rise construction zones.
• Safety and Compliance Requirements
  Ensure the chosen system aligns with all local safety regulations, job site protocols, and access control needs. Proper certification and secure operation are essential on regulated sites.
• Installation Environment
  Indoor vs. outdoor, urban vs. industrial, and permanent vs. temporary environments will dictate which lift type is most appropriate for reliable and safe operation.

Lift Selection Impacts Success

Choosing the appropriate lift for construction impacts every project phase—from planning to completion. Whether the goal is to move materials safely, increase worker productivity, or comply with access regulations, selecting the correct type of lift matters.

UCEL Inc. supports general contractors and developers across North America with tailored vertical access solutions. With decades of experience in construction elevators and industrial lifting systems, UCEL helps ensure projects run efficiently, safely, and on schedule.