How Scissor Lifts, Boom Lifts, and Telehandlers Improve Construction Workflows
A successful construction project depends on three things: efficiency, safety, and the right tools for each task. It doesn’t matter if you're navigating tight indoor spaces or reaching over obstacles on uneven terrain; having the right equipment makes all the difference. Scissor lifts, boom lifts, and telehandlers each play a vital role in streamlining operations and improving overall productivity on a construction site. Let’s break down how they contribute to smoother, faster, and safer job completion.
The Role of Each Lift on a Construction Site
As we’re all well aware, every job site is different, and so is the equipment required to complete the work. Understanding when to use a scissor lift, boom lift, or telehandler helps teams complete tasks efficiently while simultaneously ensuring safety and reducing unnecessary delays.
When to Use a Scissor Lift for Vertical Access
First up, the OG. A scissor lift is the go-to machine for indoor or flat-surface tasks that require straight vertical movement. Scissor lifts are ideal for painting, drywall installation, or ceiling work, since they offer stability and ample platform space for workers and tools. To top it off, their compact design makes them especially valuable in tight or finished environments.
How Boom Lifts Extend Reach and Flexibility
Next up, the cousin. Boom lifts shine in outdoor environments where workers need both vertical and horizontal reach. Are you trimming trees? Installing signage? Completing electrical work at elevated and awkward angles? Boom lifts offer greater freedom of movement and access to hard-to-reach places that scissor lifts simply can’t accommodate.
Telehandlers for Material Handling and Versatility
Last, but certainly not least, the hybrid. A telehandler combines the lifting power of a forklift with the reach of a crane. With an extendable boom and attachments like buckets or forks, telehandlers can move heavy materials across uneven terrain or lift loads to upper floors. They’re perfect for transporting pallets, positioning supplies, and supporting multiple tasks on large job sites.
Benefits of Combining These Machines
By combining and strategically using these three pieces of equipment, construction workers can move faster, safer, and with fewer interruptions. Projects under construction often involve overlapping phases, and combining specialized machines ensures that teams have access to the right tools for each stage of the build.
Reducing Downtime with Specialized Equipment
When do delays tend to happen? Whenever workers try to adapt a machine to perform multiple jobs for which it wasn’t designed. By using scissor lifts, boom lifts, and telehandlers in tandem, crews reduce equipment swaps, avoid workarounds, and stay focused on the task at hand, thereby minimizing downtime and maximizing daily output.
Matching Equipment to Each Phase of a Construction Job
#ProTip: Choosing the right equipment isn’t just about what’s available; it’s about matching machines to the specific needs of each construction site and construction job phase. Fortunately, we were just about to go over how each lift fits into the overall workflow. Please do join us.
Foundation and Framing Stages
When it comes to the early stages of a build, telehandlers are particularly useful for moving heavy loads, such as lumber, rebar, and pallets, across uneven ground. In addition, boom lifts also help install large structural elements that require reach and precision.
Finishing and Elevated Tasks
As a project progresses, scissor lifts become more important for interior finishing, ceiling work, and installing fixtures. With that said, boom lifts may still be needed for lighting and electrical tasks in elevated or exterior areas. Using the right lift during each phase keeps the worksite organized and on schedule.
Rent the Right Mix of Equipment at B&O Lift Rental
In need of a scissor lift, boom lift, or telehandler for your next project? B&O Lift Rental offers a full range of heavy equipment rental solutions designed to support every stage of construction. Whether you're planning a large-scale commercial build or managing a smaller residential job, we’ll help you find the right mix of machines to get the work done efficiently and safely. Contact us today to learn more!
