Key Things to Consider Before Buying a Used Scissor or Mast Lift
In the context of an informed decision when it comes to buying a used scissor or mast lift, the efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness of your projects can largely be affected with the kind of decision made. You may be in construction, facility maintenance, or industry environment; the selection of the lift gives you a smooth operation and stable performance.
This guide gives a good summary of scissor and mast lifts with a special emphasis on some of the most common ones including Push Around Lifts, Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts, Self-propelled mast lifts, and Slab Scissors. Knowing the features, advantages, and ideal applications of each type, you will have a more informed ability to choose the lift suited exactly to your project needs.
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What Is a Scissor or Mast Lift?
A scissor or mast Lift is a form of aerial work platform (AWP) used to lift workers and tools up and down a vertical structure to carry out jobs at higher levels. The scissor and mast lifts unlike the boom lifts which are extended outwards and upwards they are centered towards straight up vertical access and are therefore very stable and compact in design.
Key Features:
Types of Scissor and Mast Lifts
1
Push Around Lifts
Push around lifts are lightweight, manually pushed aerial platforms, which have either electricity or battery power. They are built to be used in the house where they are needed more and more in small places where size and manoeuvre are very critical.
Why It’s Effective:
- Lightweight and easy to move through doorways and elevators.
- Low maintenance and cost friendly.
- Fits perfectly in narrow aisles and tight work zones.
- Ideal for facility maintenance, electrical work, and light installations.
2
Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts
Rough terrain scissor lifts have been made with large tires, 4WD, and powerful diesel or hybrid engines to operate in the uneven outdoor environment.
Why It’s Effective:
- Handles gravel, dirt, mud, and rough construction sites.
- Wide platforms hold multiple workers and heavy tools.
- High lift capacities compared to other aerial platforms.
- Perfect for construction, roofing, steelwork, and outdoor projects.
3
Self-Propelled Mast Lifts
Cranes that are used in rough terrain are designed with huge tires and strong suspension to use in the off road environment. They are built to be used in construction sites, oil fields and infrastructures projects as they offer lifting capabilities as well as movement over rough terrains.
Why It’s Effective:
- Easy joystick controls for maneuverability.
- Small turning radius for narrow aisles.
- Drive at height without lowering the platform.
- Perfect for inventory, signage, and general facility upkeep.
4
Slab Scissor Lifts
Slab scissors are electric lifts designed on level, smooth, indoor or paved outdoor flooring. They are considered very reliable in warehousing and facilities maintenance as they are known to work quietly and take up a narrow shape.
Why It’s Effective:
- Zero emissions — safe for indoor environments.
- Narrow width — fits aisles, corridors, and doorways.
- Quiet, smooth, and efficient operation.
- Ideal for indoor construction, warehouses, and electrical installation.
Quick Comparison: Crane Types
| Comparison Factor | Platform Height | Best Use | Power Source | Transport |
| Push Around | 15–30 ft | Indoor, light maintenance tasks | Electric | Manual push / small trailer |
| Rough Terrain Scissor | 30–60 ft | Outdoor, uneven ground works | Diesel or hybrid | Towable / flatbed trailer |
| Self-Propelled Mast | 20–40 ft | Narrow aisles, facility access | Electric | Driveable / truck transport |
| Slab Scissor | 20–40 ft | Indoor, smooth slab surfaces | Electric | Towable / truck-mounted |
Why Buy a Used Scissor or Mast Lift?
No one can deny the usefulness of used scissors and mast lifts. Rather than absorbing the heavy depreciation of brand-new equipment, you can acquire a low-hours, well-kept machine at 30 to 60 percent discount and use the savings to where it matters, productivity and uptime.
Top Reasons to Buy Used:
What Scissor or Mast Lift Do You Need?
The choice of the lift is determined by both the needs of where you are working and not height alone. Consider the lift height, the operating platform capacity, the source of power and the nature of ground you will be operating in. There are five tips that will help your decision:
| Specification | Why It’s Important | Typical Range |
| Platform Height | Maximum vertical reach | 15–60 ft |
| Platform Width | Space for workers & materials | 2–6 ft |
| Lift Capacity | Weight limit (people + tools) | 500–2,000 lbs |
| Power Source | Electric, diesel, hybrid options | Jobsite based |
| Mobility Type | Push-around, self-propelled, RT | Application based |
Electric vs. Diesel vs. Hybrid Power
Electric Scissor & Mast Lifts
Diesel Scissor & Mast Lifts
Hybrid Scissor & Mast Lifts
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What’s the Price Range for Used Scissor & Mast Lifts?
Factors affecting cost include brand, manufacturing year, hours of use, platform height, and overall condition.
Smart Buying Hints:
| Lift Type | Typical Height Range | Price Range (USD) |
| Push-Around Mast | ~15–25 ft | ~$3,000–$8,000 |
| Slab Scissor | ~20–40 ft | ~$6,000–$15,000 |
| Rough Terrain Scissor | ~30–50+ ft | $18,000–$40,000+ |
| Self-Propelled Mast | ~20–35 ft | $8,000–$20,000+ |
Where to Find Used Scissor & Mast Lifts
You’ll usually come across pre-owned scissor and mast lifts in three main markets:
At NLEQ, every scissor lift and mast lift goes through a full inspection and reconditioning process. Nothing leaves our yard untested. You’ll get a documented, work-ready machine with no hidden issues.
How to Inspect a Used Scissor or Mast Lift Before Buying
Doing a careful inspection before purchase can save you major repair bills later. Here’s a practical checklist to follow when looking at used scissor and mast lifts:
Best for:
Why Partner with NLEQ for Used Scissor & Mast Lifts?
Over 35 years, we have earned the trust of contractors, property managers and jobsite crews with the reliable provision of lifting solutions. Do you have a small job that requires a compact mast lift, or a big job that needs a sturdier scissor lift, we understand the machines and what it requires to get your work going.