Boom lifts are essential machinery in businesses where working at heights is a core part of the job. Be it construction or building maintenance, articulating and telescopic boom lifts provide the lift, stability, and maneuverability that enables workers to complete tasks effectively and safely.
What Is a Boom Lift?
Boom lift, or more commonly known as a cherry picker or aerial lift, is one of the forms of mobile elevated work platforms (MEWP) that is designed to raise laborers and tools to hard-to-reach higher places. A boom lift features a hydraulic arm that is foldable, up-raise, and relocatable to perform an array of work at raised elevations.
- Construction & framing
- Building maintenance
- Window cleaning
- Electrical & lighting installation
- Tree trimming
- Signage installation
- Inspections and repairs
The most common types of boom lifts are telescopic and articulating.
Telescopic Boom Lifts (Straight Boom)
Telescopic boom lifts consist of a straight, extendable boom that provides extended horizontal and vertical reach. They are also called stick booms. They are ideal when you are required to reach high or far locations with nothing obstructing the path.
Key Features
- Straight boom that extends outward
- Can reach up to 135 feet
- Offers maximum horizontal outreach
- Often includes 4WD for rough terrain
- Available in diesel and electric models
Ideal For
- Outdoor construction
- Electrical line work
- Bridge inspections
- Tree care
- High-rise building maintenance
Articulating Boom Lifts (Aka Knuckle Boom)
Articulating boom lifts consist of a number of sections that flex at various joints, allowing the arm to “articulate” past obstructions. This provides greater flexibility to access tight or enclosed areas.
Key Features
- Jointed arm design for nimble maneuvering
- Can reach over and above obstructions
- Typically has smaller footprint than telescopic models
- Available in electric and diesel
- Works best in tight or indoor areas
Best For
- Indoor maintenance
- Work in warehouses or factories
- HVAC or plumbing installations
- Tight access jobs with obstacles
- Sign or banner installation in crowded spaces
Telescopic vs. Articulating Boom Lifts
Feature | Telescopic Boom Lift | Articulating Boom Lift |
Reach | Longer horizontal & vertical | Moderate vertical & up-over |
Maneuverability | Limited, straight movement | High, flexible movement |
Terrain | Great for open job sites | Best for tight or obstructed areas |
Use Case | Outdoor, high-reach projects | Indoor or tight-access work |
Platform Capacity | Typically, higher | Moderate |
Setup Time | Faster | May take more time to position |
Power Options | Diesel, some electric |
Diesel and electric available
|
Power Options: Electric vs. Diesel Boom Lifts
When choosing a boom lift, one key consideration is the power source. The right option depends on your work environment, space limitations, and project requirements.
Let’s take a look at the key differences between electric and diesel-powered boom lifts:
Electric Boom Lifts
- Quieter, zero-emission operation
- Best for indoor use or sensitive environments
- Compact and easy to maneuver
Diesel Boom Lifts
- Higher power for outdoor, rough-terrain work
- Ideal for long-duration, heavy-duty jobs
- May require more space and ventilation
Boom Lift Accessories & Attachments
Depending on your project needs, boom lifts can be equipped with a range of accessories to improve functionality and safety. Some common attachments and parts include:
-
Jib booms for extra articulation and reach
-
Non-marking tires for indoor surface protection
-
Lighting kits for working in low-light conditions
-
Pipe racks and tool trays to help keep tools organized
-
Fall protection harnesses for added safety on elevated job
Boom Lift Safety Considerations
The safety of everyone should always come first when a boom lift is being used. One of the most important practices is to constantly wear a full-body harness while working at heights to prevent falls.
Take the time to examine the lift thoroughly prior to each use. Check for damage or mechanical malfunction to ensure everything is in order.
Pay attention to your surroundings and stay clear of overhead power cables, which pose a dangerous electrocution hazard. Be well away from them.
Use the boom lift only on solid, flat ground. Tipping or loss of control may result from uneven ground, which can put both the operator and others at risk.
Never overload the platform. Overloading may compromise the stability of the lift and lead to accidents or equipment failure.
Lastly, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and all local safety regulations. Training and adherence to guidelines are the keys to safe and successful operation.
Common Boom Lift Applications by Industry
Boom lifts are widely utilized in numerous industries due to their adaptability and ability to provide secure access to high working areas.
Boom lifts play a critical role in structural framing, roof construction, and exterior finishing, ensuring that workers can easily reach high, difficult-to-access areas of a building.
They can also be versatile for window washing, facade maintenance, and gutter and lighting maintenance, allowing crews to easily get the job done on multi-story buildings.
Finally, in landscaping and tree care, boom lifts are perfectly suited for tree trimming, seasonal lighting installations, and cleanup of jobs at height, especially where ladders or scaffolding would be impractical or unsafe.
Why Rent Boom Lifts?
Booming lift rentals offer several advantages over owning—especially for businesses that need flexibility, cost control, and access to consistent, cutting-edge equipment.
Leasing also gives you access to the latest models and safety features without the high initial cost of purchasing. Whether tackling a large-scale outdoor job or small-scale indoor one, we’re here to help you find the right lift, at the right time, and at a fair price.
Still Have Questions?
At Reliable Equipment Rentals, we specialize in the rental of brand-new boom lifts from leading providers like Genie and JLG, with articulating and telescopic options available. In this article, you’ll learn the various types of boom lifts, specialty functions, and what to choose for your task.
Still not sure which boom lift is right for your job? Our team is happy to help. Contact us and we’ll guide you through the rental process with the support you can trust.
How high can your boom lifts reach?
Our boom lifts can reach working heights ranging from 30 feet to 135 feet, depending on the model. Telescopic boom lifts typically offer greater vertical and horizontal reach, making them ideal for high-access outdoor jobs, while articulating boom lifts provide versatile “up and over” access for tighter or obstructed areas. If you’re unsure which height or model suits your project, our team is happy to help you find the right fit.
How much does it cost to rent a lift?
The cost to rent a boom lift can vary based on the type of lift, brand, size, and any additional features you may need. For the most accurate pricing, feel free to contact our team at 604-276-8688—we’ll provide a quote based on your specific project and location.
Do I need certification to operate a boom lift?
Yes, in most cases, you do need certification to operate a boom lift. According to workplace safety regulations in Canada, anyone operating a boom lift—also known as a mobile elevated work platform (MEWP)—must be properly trained and certified. This includes understanding how to safely operate the equipment, perform inspections, and use fall protection.
If you or your team need certification, we offer training certifications designed to meet provincial safety standards.