Common Uses for Telescopic Boom Lifts

Telescopic boom lifts, also called boom lifts or stick booms, are a type of aerial platform with sections that extend telescopically. These boom lifts are ideal for work that requires maximum vertical outreach, and these units have the greatest horizontal reach of any aerial work platform.

Telescopic boom lifts are ideal for working in areas with limited access, and come in various sizes, lifting capacities, drive speeds and other features depending on your needs and job site. These features make telescopic boom lifts extremely popular in Construction and Industrial applications, but can be used for Agricultural, Electrical, Painting, and Roofing applications as well.

Main Components for Telescopic Boom Lifts

A telescopic boom lift can be operated by two different control panels. The ground controls are typically towards the back of the machine, and allow the operator to control the boom from ground level. The basket controls are located on the aerial work platform, and allow the operator to drive the machine as well as operate the boom functions. Telescopic boom lifts have diesel, gas or dual fuel engine options and are equipped with hydrostatic drive systems.

Other features of a telescopic boom lift include:

  • • Minimal Tail Swing
  • • Dual Fuel
  • • Jib
  • • Generator & Air Compressor
  • • Crawler Option

Manufacturers & Models

When comparing manufacturers and models, it is important to consider the following: 

Weight Capacity

Telescopic boom lifts have a lift weight capacity between 500 and 1,000 pounds. You must consider how many people and what types of tools are needed on the platform to determine which lift is right for the job.

Fuel Type

Gasoline, diesel, and propane are common fuels used in telescopic boom lifts. Check the fuel type, prices for the fuel, fuel efficiency, and availability of the fuel type in your area before choosing a boom lift.

Terrain Type

Telescopic boom lift tires come in several types of tread for various soils, and are in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Consider the type of ground you will be operating on and find the right tires for the boom lift. If you will be operating on very soft or sloping ground, a telescopic boom may be dangerous to use.

Reach

With a range of 30’ to 100’ in vertical reach, telescopic boom lifts can help you get to the top of trees, poles, and roofs. The booms can also extend horizontally, but watch the angle because it reduces the weight capacity and stability of the machine.

There are several popular manufacturers in the telescopic boom lift market including Haulotte, Genie, JLG, Snorkel, and Terex.

Top Telescopic Boom Lift Models

Manufacturer Equipment Specs