MEWP.guide technical guide
MEWP categories explained
Compare scissor lifts, boom lifts, vertical masts, spider lifts and vehicle-mounted MEWPs.
Vertical access
Scissor lifts and vertical masts are suited to tasks directly above the chassis. Scissors usually provide larger decks; vertical masts prioritise compact access.
Up-and-over access
Articulating booms use jointed sections to reach around obstacles. Telescopic booms prioritise direct long reach. The published envelope must be checked at the intended platform load.
Specialist mobility
Spider lifts use tracks and outriggers for compact access and stabilised operation. Truck- and van-mounted platforms support rapid travel between sites but bring chassis, licence and deployed-footprint constraints.