When working at height, the cherry picker and scissor lift are commonly used for a range of tasks.
But what are the main differences between them and which machine is best suited to your job at hand?
This guide compares the key features of cherry pickers and scissor lifts and explains which tasks each type of access platform is best suited to.
Cherry Picker or Scissor Lift: A quick comparison
A cherry picker, also commonly known as a boom lift, has an extendable arm that can provide vertical and horizontal reach. This makes it useful for reaching over obstacles and accessing awkward work areas.
A scissor lift raises its platform vertically and generally offers a larger working area and greater capacity for personnel, tools and materials.
| Cherry Picker | Scissor Lift | |
| Movement | Vertical and Horizontal | Primarily vertical |
| Best for | Reaching over or around obstacles | Work directly above the machine |
| Platform | Generally smaller | Generally larger |
| Personnel/tools | Usually more limited | Often suited to multiple operators and materials |
| Typical environments | Indoor, outdoor and rough terrain depending on model | Indoor, outdoor and rough terrain depending on model |
| Common tasks | Façade work, steel erection, maintenance, lighting, tree work | Fit-out, M&E, ceilings, warehouse maintenance |
What other factors do you need to consider?
Before choosing a machine, consider where it will operate, how it will reach the work area, the ground and floor conditions, the required platform capacity, and any weather or overhead hazards.
Other factors to consider include:
- Indoor or outdoor use: The working environment can influence the most suitable power source. Electric machines can help reduce on-site noise and exhaust emissions indoors, while the required runtime and site conditions should also inform the choice.
- Site Access & Clearance: Consider the machine’s dimensions, turning radius and tail swing. Compact scissor lifts can be well suited to confined areas where vertical access is required, while cherry pickers can provide greater flexibility when the work area is obstructed.
- Ground conditions and weight limits: Multi-storey buildings can have floor-loading limits that affect whether a heavier machine is suitable. Soft or uneven ground may require a machine designed for those conditions, while indoor work may call for non-marking rubber tyres.
- Weather and environmental conditions: Check the manufacturer’s operating limits before using an access machine outdoors, particularly in windy conditions. A site assessment should also identify overhead hazards such as power lines, tree branches and low structures so that suitable clearance and controls can be maintained.
Do I need training to operate a cherry picker or scissor lift?
Anyone operating access equipment should have the appropriate training and be competent to use the machine safely.
The work should also be properly planned, with consideration given to the equipment being used, site conditions and potential hazards before work begins.
If you are unsure which machine is suitable for your site or task, speak to an access equipment specialist before arranging your hire or try out our machine finder.
How can APA help?
At APA, we have a range of cherry pickers, scissor lifts and other access equipment available to hire to help you and your business when working at height.
Use our online machine finder to answer a few quick questions and identify a suitable machine for your job.
If you would like to discuss access platform hire in more detail, our team can help you choose the machine best suited to your job. Get in touch with us.
