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Efficiency, safety, and precision are essential when you work in construction sites. Among the most critical pieces of construction lift equipment are aerial platforms and lifting machines that enable workers to reach great heights, move materials, and complete complex tasks with ease.
This comprehensive guide explores the eight most important types of construction lifts that perform well in modern construction and industrial work.
1. Articulating Boom Lifts:
Articulating boom lifts, often called knuckle lifts, are the Swiss army knives of construction boom lifts. Their distinctive design featuring multiple joints allows workers to solve obstacles with remarkable flexibility. These lifting equipment in construction excel in scenarios requiring precise positioning:
- Ideal for electrical and piping repairs
- Perfect for exterior cleaning and maintenance projects
- Capable of accessing tight spaces with exceptional maneuverability
Bailey Cranes, a minority-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned small business based in Muskego, Wisconsin offers specialized explosion proof boom lifts designed for hazardous environments, providing an extra layer of safety and reliability for complex industrial applications. Their product variants include:
| Model | Working Height | Lift Capacity |
| AE30JEX | 36 ft | 500 lbs |
| AE45JEX | 51 ft | 500 lbs |
| A45JEX | 51 ft | 500 lbs |
| A60JEX | 66 ft | 500 lbs |
| A80JEX | 86 ft | 500 lbs |
2. Telescopic Boom Lifts
Boom lift construction reaches a new level of efficiency with telescopic boom lifts. These construction lifting equipment feature a straight, extendable arm that can reach extraordinary heights. Unlike articulated models, telescopic booms provide a more linear extension, making them perfect for:
- Specialized electrical work
- Tree trimming and landscaping
- Maintenance tasks requiring significant vertical reach
Bailey Crane’s telescopic boom lifts offer incredible capabilities of modern construction platform lifts. Their product variants include:
| Model | Working Height | Lift Capacity |
| T40EX | 45 ft | 1000 lbs |
| T46JEX | 52 ft | 500 lbs |
| T60EX | 66 ft | 1000 lbs |
| T66JEX | 71 ft | 750 lbs |
| T80EX | 86 ft | 1000 lbs |
3. Cherry Pickers
Construction man lifts like cherry pickers have become essential in various industries. These wheeled vehicles with hydraulic cranes provide exceptional versatility for:
- Utility line maintenance
- Building exterior work
- Warehouse installations
- Maintenance and repair projects
4. Electric Scissor Lifts
Types of lifting in construction include electric scissor lifts, which offer a stable, wide platform for multiple workers. These lift machines for construction move straight up and down, making them ideal for:
- Interior building repairs
- Window and cladding installation
- Painting projects
- Maintenance work requiring team collaboration
Bailey’s scissor lifts demonstrate the company’s commitment to safety-engineered, performance-driven solutions, making them a top choice for companies requiring specialized lifting equipment. Their product variants include:
| Model | Working Height | Lift Capacity |
| 1932EX | 25 ft | 550 lbs |
| 2032EX | 26 ft | 900 lbs |
| 2047EX | 26 ft | 1300 lbs |
| 2632EX | 32 ft | 500 lbs |
| 2647EX | 32 ft | 1000 lbs |
| 2668EX | 32 ft | 1200 lbs |
| 3247EX | 38 ft | 700 lbs |
| 3268EX | 38 ft | 1000 lbs |
| 3392EX | 39 ft | 2750 lbs |
| 4047EX | 45.5 ft | 770 lbs |
| 4392EX | 49 ft | 2000 lbs |
| 5392EX | 59 ft | 1500 lbs |
5. Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts
When construction lift equipment needs to operate in challenging exterior environments, rough terrain scissor lifts shine. These robust types of construction lifts feature:
- Specialized tires for uneven surfaces
- Stable platforms for multiple workers
- Enhanced mobility in challenging conditions
Manufacturers like Bailey Cranes have developed innovative designs that can reach up to 59 feet, ensuring workers can safely access difficult work sites.
6. Telescopic Forklifts
Construction boom lifts meet material handling with telescopic forklifts, or telehandlers. These unique lift machines combine the capabilities of a forklift and a boom lift, allowing:
- Material transportation at extended heights
- Efficient movement in complex construction environments
- Versatile lifting attachments
7. Rough Terrain Forklifts
When construction lifting equipment needs to operate in challenging landscapes while moving heavy materials, rough terrain forklifts excel. These powerful machines can:
- Carry loads up to 8,000 pounds
- Navigate uneven construction sites
- Transport materials across significant distances
Their adjustable forks and exceptional balance make them crucial for large-scale construction projects.
8. Heavy-Duty Forklifts
Heavy-duty forklifts are primarily designed for indoor use. These construction lift machines can:
- Support loads up to 36,000 pounds
- Operate efficiently in warehouses and industrial settings
- Provide vertical and horizontal material movement
Choosing the Right Construction Lift
Selecting the appropriate lift machine for construction requires careful consideration of:
- Space restrictions
- Weight capacity requirements
- Movement capabilities
- Power source compatibility
- Specific job site conditions
By understanding these factors, construction managers can optimize efficiency, safety, and productivity.
Conclusion
From articulating boom lifts to heavy-duty forklifts, these machines represent the foundation of modern construction and industrial work. As we move ahead with the advancement in technology, we can expect even more innovative types of lifting in construction that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Choosing the right construction lift equipment can make all the difference in your project’s success. While this blog has covered various lift types, one company stands out for its specialized approach to lifting solutions: Bailey Cranes. Contact our team today at sales@baileycranes.com with your requirements and experience the efficiency and reliability that we provide.
