The scissor lift is the work platform most people have in mind when they need to get a few metres up and stand steady. It lifts straight up, has a large platform and takes more weight than most other lifts.
A scissor lift raises the platform straight up using a scissor mechanism beneath the basket. It cannot move sideways or reach over obstacles — in return you get a large, stable working area that can often take 200–500 kg. That makes it the first choice when two people need to work together, or when tools and materials have to go up.
The vast majority of scissor lifts have a working height of between 6 and 14 metres. Larger outdoor models go up to around 18–20 metres, but they are heavier and need firm, level ground.
This is the most important thing to settle before you book, and the one that most often goes wrong. Indoor models are electric, run on batteries, have white or non-marking wheels and are narrow enough to fit through a standard door frame. They leave no marks on the floor and can be used in shops, warehouses and sports halls.
Outdoor models are larger, often diesel-powered, and many have four-wheel drive and chunky tread to get through gravel and mud. They often weigh twice as much, and if you want to use one indoors the floor has to be able to take it — and ventilation must be adequate if it runs on diesel.
If in doubt: tell the hire company about the ground (tarmac, gravel, concrete floor, parquet), whether there are steps or thresholds on the way in, and how much space you have around the work area. Once they know this, the hire company will find the right machine in a minute.
Expect NOK 300–2,000 per day. That is a wide range, and the reason is simple: the hire period is the biggest factor in the price — far more important than which model you choose.
If you hire for one day, you will be at the upper end. If you hire for several weeks or months, the daily rate drops sharply — right down towards the lower end of the range. That is why it almost always pays to give the full period when you call, rather than extending day by day.
Transport usually comes on top, and it is the item people forget. On its own it can cost as much as a day's hire if you are far from the depot. The prices here are a guide — call the hire company for an actual quote.
Anyone operating a lift must have documented training on the equipment. Many hire companies give a short walkthrough at collection, but that does not replace the training — ask the hire company what applies to your use, and whether they offer courses.
Always check that fall protection, emergency lowering and interlocks work before you go up, and that the machine has a valid certified inspection. A reputable hire company will show you the inspection documentation without you having to ask.
The most common models give 6–14 metres of working height. Working height is where your hands reach, i.e. the platform height plus about two metres. If you need to go higher than 14 metres, an articulated boom lift or a boom lift is the right machine.
Because the hire period matters most. One day costs far more per day than a month does. Size and terrain capability also play a part, but less than people think — give the full period when you ask for a price.
Only with an outdoor model, preferably with four-wheel drive. Electric indoor lifts have small, hard wheels and will get stuck or sink in. Tell the hire company about the ground when you book.
Scissor lifts are self-propelled and are not towed like a trailer lift. They have to be transported on a lorry or a trailer with a ramp — most hire companies deliver and collect for an extra charge.
A scissor lift goes straight up with a large platform. A boom lift has an arm that can reach outwards and over obstacles, but has a smaller basket and a lower load capacity. If you need to get past a roof or out over a hedge, you need a boom lift.
We list 35 rental companies offering scissor lift across 13 counties. Choose your county and send a request.
The list is based on what the rental companies state on their own websites, so it is not complete — many have equipment they have not listed.