Industrial Work Platforms : To Buy or Rent?

Industrial work platforms, also known as aerial work platforms (AWPs) or elevated work platforms (EWPs), are versatile machines that can be used to elevate workers to heights for a variety of tasks, such as maintenance, inspection, and construction.

Industrial work platforms come in a variety of types, including:

• Scissor lifts: Scissor lifts are the most common type of industrial work platform. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, and they can be used to access heights of up to 40 feet.
• Boom lifts: Boom lifts offer a wider range of motion than scissor lifts, and they can be used to reach heights of up to 185 feet. Boom lifts are more expensive than scissor lifts, but they are more versatile and can be used for a wider range of tasks.
• Mast lifts: Mast lifts are similar to scissor lifts, but they have a telescoping mast that allows them to reach heights of up to 50 feet. Mast lifts are often used for indoor applications, such as maintenance and warehousing.

When to buy an industrial work platform

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to buy or rent an industrial work platform. One factor is the frequency of use. If you need to use an industrial work platform on a regular basis, it may be more cost-effective to buy one.

Another factor to consider is the type of work that you will be doing. If you need a versatile machine that can be used for a variety of tasks, a boom lift may be the best option. If you need a machine to reach a specific height, a scissor lift or mast lift may be a better choice.

Finally, you should also consider the cost of maintenance and repairs. When you buy an industrial work platform, you will be responsible for all maintenance and repairs. If you rent an industrial work platform, the rental company will be responsible for maintenance and repairs.

When to rent an industrial work platform

There are also several reasons why you might want to rent an industrial work platform instead of buying one. One reason is that renting can be less expensive than buying, especially if you only need to use the platform for a short period of time.

Another reason to rent is that you can choose the right machine for the job. If you only need to use an industrial work platform for a specific task, you can rent the right machine for that task without having to invest in a machine that you may not need on a regular basis.

Finally, renting can be a good option if you are not sure how often you will need to use an industrial work platform. If you are only going to need to use a platform occasionally, you can rent one when you need it and avoid having to store and maintain a machine that you are not using.

Conclusion

The decision of whether to buy or rent an industrial work platform depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you need to use a platform on a regular basis and you have the budget, buying a platform may be the best option. If you only need to use a platform for a short period of time or if you are not sure how often you will need to use one, renting may be a better option.

Additional tips

Here are some additional tips for renting or buying an industrial work platform:

• Rent from a reputable company. Make sure that the rental company is licensed and insured, and that their equipment is well-maintained.
• Get the right insurance. Make sure that you have adequate insurance coverage for the industrial work platform that you are renting or buying.
• Read the contract carefully. Before you sign a rental or purchase contract, make sure that you understand all of the terms and conditions.
• Inspect the platform before using it. Whether you are renting or buying an industrial work platform, be sure to inspect it carefully before using it to make sure that it is in good condition.

By following these tips, you can make sure that you choose the right industrial work platform for your needs and budget.

Does your business require regular use of industrial work platforms? Do you think renting an industrial work platform is a better option than purchasing one? Think again! Purchasing an industrial work platform can be a long term investment for your business, especially if you require more than one platform.