The Ultimate Guide to Scissor Lift Rentals in NH: Your Top Questions Answered

 Determining the Right Scissor Lift for Your Project

Choosing the correct machine is the single most important step for a successful rental. The right choice will save you time and keep your crew safe, while the wrong one can lead to dangerous situations or project delays. When considering scissor lift rentals, here’s what you need to evaluate.

Height and Platform Size: How High and How Big?

• Working Height: The first question to answer is how high you need to go. Remember that the "platform height" is the height the lift's floor will reach, while the "working height" is about 6 feet higher, accounting for the reach of a worker standing on the platform. Measure the highest point you need to work on and choose from our scissor lift rentals with a working height that comfortably exceeds it. Common sizes range from 19-foot models for indoor work to over 40-foot models for larger structures.

• Platform Size: How many workers and what materials need to be on the platform at once? Standard platforms are great for one or two people, but many models offer platform extensions that slide out to provide several extra feet of workspace. For jobs like installing long pieces of siding or window panels, a larger platform is a must-have feature for your scissor lift rentals.

Indoor vs. Outdoor: Where is the Work?

The environment is a key factor in selecting your scissor lift rentals.

• Indoor Use: For work inside a warehouse, a new build, or a commercial space in Tilton, an electric scissor lift is the perfect choice. They are emission-free, operate almost silently, and are equipped with non-marking tires that won't scuff up finished floors.

• Outdoor Use: For exterior work, you'll need a more robust machine. This is where the next question becomes critical.

Terrain and Ground Conditions: Is Your Site NH-Ready?

New Hampshire job sites are rarely perfectly flat. From the graded but still uneven ground of a new construction site to the established lawns of a residential property, the terrain demands the right machine.

• Slab or Paved Surfaces: If you are working on a flat, solid surface like concrete or asphalt, a standard electric or gas-powered scissor lift will work perfectly.

• Uneven, Muddy, or Rough Terrain: For the vast majority of outdoor projects in the Granite State, a rough terrain scissor lift is essential. These heavy-duty models come with powerful gas or diesel engines, four-wheel drive, and deep-tread tires. They are designed to safely navigate the mud, gravel, and gentle slopes typical of a New Hampshire job site. Choosing a standard model for an undeveloped site is a recipe for getting stuck, making a rough terrain model the smartest choice for most outdoor scissor lift rentals. The importance of matching the machine to the terrain is a frequent topic in industry publications like Rental Management Magazine.

Weight Capacity: What Are You Lifting?

Finally, consider the total weight you'll have on the platform. Add up the weight of all workers, their tools (saws, nail guns, etc.), and the materials they'll need (bundles of shingles, sheets of drywall, buckets of paint). Every scissor lift has a clearly stated weight capacity that must never be exceeded. Overloading a lift is a primary cause of accidents. Ensure the capacity of your chosen scissor lift rentals can safely handle your heaviest load.

2. Logistical and Operational Considerations

Beyond choosing the right model, you need to plan for how it will operate on your site.

Power Source: Do You Have a Place to Charge?

• Electric Scissor Lifts: These are the standard for indoor scissor lift rentals. They run on deep-cycle batteries. The key consideration is that you will need access to a standard power outlet on-site to recharge the machine, typically overnight.

• Gas/Diesel Scissor Lifts: These are the powerhouses for outdoor work. They provide more power and the ability to run continuously as long as you have fuel, making them ideal for long shifts and demanding terrain.

Runtime: How Long Will an Electric Model Last?

This is a critical question for electric scissor lift rentals. The runtime on a single charge depends on the model and, more importantly, how it's used. Constant driving and lifting will drain the battery faster than stationary work. A fully charged electric scissor lift can typically last for a full 8-hour workday of standard use, but it will need to be plugged in overnight to be ready for the next day. This charging requirement is an important factor to plan for.

Licensing: Do I Need a License to Operate a Scissor Lift?

This is a common point of confusion. While OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has strict regulations covering the safe use of aerial lifts, they do not require a state-issued "license" to operate a scissor lift. However, OSHA does mandate that the employer must ensure that every operator is properly trained and authorized to use the specific model of scissor lift on the job. As the renter, you are responsible for ensuring that anyone who uses the scissor lift rentals is a competent and trained operator.

3. Cost and Logistics: Budgeting and Planning

Understanding the costs and logistics of scissor lift rentals ensures a smooth and predictable experience.

What is the rental cost?

The cost of scissor lift rentals varies based on several factors:

• Model, Size, and Height: A 40-foot rough terrain model will cost more than a 19-foot electric model.

• Location and Availability: Rental rates can fluctuate based on demand in a specific region of New Hampshire.

• Rental Duration: We offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates. The longer you rent, the lower the effective daily cost. We are committed to providing the best value, which is why we offer a Best Price Guarantee.

Where can I find scissor lift rentals?

NorthPoint Equipment Rentals is your local source, with two convenient locations in Tilton and Ashland. We proudly serve the entire Lakes Region and Central New Hampshire. You can view our full inventory on our aerial lift rental page.

Why NorthPoint is the Smart Choice for Your Scissor Lift Rentals in NH

• Local Expertise: We know the challenges of working on New Hampshire job sites. We can provide expert advice to help you select the perfect scissor lift rentals for your project, whether it's a rough terrain model for a new build or a compact electric unit for indoor work. Learn more about our local commitment on our About Us page.

• Unbeatable Value: Our Best Price Guarantee and FREE Local Delivery combine to offerowers.

• A Modt: scissor lift rentals in the region.during your rental is safe and reliable. You can view our options on our full inventory page. This is a promise that extends across our entire fleet, including all tractor rentals.

• 24/7 Online Reservations: Plan your project and book your rental anytime through our convenient online portal.

Conclusion: Extend Your Day, Ensure Your Safety

Don't let the setting sun dictate your project's schedule. A light tower rental is a smart, affordable, and essential tool for maximizing productivity and ensuring job site safety during the darker months. By choosing the right machine and partnering with a local expert who provides reliable equipment and unmatched service, you can keep your project moving forward, day and night.

Ready to light up your next project?

Contact NorthPoint Equipment Rentals Today!

• Tilton Location:

  • 185 Laconia Road, Tilton, NH 03276

  • (603) 499-7926

• Ashland Location:

  • 130 Main St, Ashland, NH 03217

  • (603) 375-4161

• Visit our website: www.northpointrentals.com to book your light tower or tractor rentals 24/7!