Shipping a Scissor Lift

It is common to see a scissor lift driving through your local big box department store as associates lift merchandise onto high shelves or even on city sidewalks as painters and contractors use them to reach high levels of a building. As handy as these machines are for those who use them daily, it is not convenient, nor is it legal, to drive them from one location or job site to another.

If you're looking for reliable and safe shipping services for scissor lifts and other heavy loads, then look no further than A-1 Auto Transport, Inc. Our team of professionals has been serving contractors and businesses in any state of the United States for over 30 years, providing them with the expertise and equipment necessary to handle any shipping needs.

Need to ship internationally? Our company can help you get your equipment to and from job sites or department stores securely and efficiently.

Types of Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts are an essential part of construction sites, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to scaffolding or ladders. Here, we explore the different types of scissor lifts, keeping in mind the diverse needs they fulfill and the variety of locations they serve.

• Electric Scissor Lifts: These models are known for their quiet operation and are ideal for indoor use where air quality is a concern. Powered by batteries, electric scissor lifts are suitable for a number of indoor tasks, including installation, maintenance, and warehousing operations.
• Diesel Scissor Lifts: Designed for outdoor use, diesel scissor lifts offer more power and a higher lifting capacity. They are commonly seen on construction sites and are part of the heavy machinery lineup alongside excavators and cranes. The robust nature of diesel models makes them perfect for rough terrains.
• Hydraulic Scissor Lifts: Utilizing hydraulic oil as a power source, these lifts offer a smooth mechanism for raising and lowering the platform. They are versatile, being used in both indoor and outdoor settings, depending on the specific requirements of the task.
• Pneumatic Scissor Lifts: Operating without electricity or fuels, pneumatic scissor lifts use air pressure to raise and lower the platform. This kind of scissor lift is environmentally friendly, making it a preferred choice for companies focused on reducing their carbon footprint.
• Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts: Equipped with specialized tires and extra power, these lifts are designed to perform in uneven outdoor locations. They often come with features like outriggers and 4-wheel drive, making them stable on various terrains, ideal for construction sites.

Each type of scissor lift serves as an indispensable tool for workers, providing the necessary elevation for tasks that require a combination of height, strength, and stability. Whether it's moving pieces of heavy material with a forklift attachment or reaching high locations on a flatbed trailer, scissor lifts enhance productivity and safety on the job site.

Transportation Options

When selecting the best transportation option for shipping scissor lifts, it's necessary to consider various factors such as types of trailers, price considerations, safety measures, and the dimensions of the equipment. Experts in the field offer a variety of methods, each with its own benefits and tailored to meet the specific needs of your business.

Open-Air Transport

The most straightforward and cost-effective way to ship scissor lifts is via open-air transport. Scissor lifts are secured on flatbed trailers or lowboy trailers, which are types of haulers designed for easy loading and unloading. This option is ideal for haulers prioritizing speed and efficiency, with safety measures in place to ensure the equipment remains secure on the road. Pricing for open-air transport is generally favorable, offering a budget-friendly option for businesses.

Container Shipping

For added protection against the elements, container shipping provides a secure environment for scissor lifts. This option involves crating and loading the lifts into large shipping containers on flatbeds or trucks, safeguarding them from weather and debris. While the prices for container shipping are higher, the benefits of increased protection and security make it a valuable option for valuable shipments.

Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping

RoRo shipping is a versatile and efficient choice for operational scissor lifts that can be driven onto the ship. This method minimizes handling, reducing the risk of damage and enhancing safety. It's an excellent option for international shipments, with towing services and operators skilled in the specifics of scissor lift transport. RoRo shipping offers competitive pricing for freight that requires both ground and maritime transport.

Flat Rack Shipping

For scissor lifts with dimensions that exceed standard container sizes, flat rack shipping offers a solution. These loaders are secured onto flat racks for maritime shipping, accommodating the max height and length restrictions of the road. Flat rack shipping combines the accessibility of open-air transport with the scale of maritime freight, tailored for oversized or heavy scissor lifts.

Specialized Heavy Hauling

Specialized heavy hauling services cater to scissor lifts that demand custom transportation solutions, such as those requiring lowboys, RGN (removable gooseneck trailers), cranes for loading and unloading, and rigging for secure transport. These services are provided by experts in heavy haul freight, ensuring that even the largest and most cumbersome scissor lifts are transported safely and efficiently. Pricing for specialized heavy hauling reflects the custom nature of the service, with a focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and minimizing road impact.

When planning the shipment of a scissor lift, consider factors such as the variety of trailers available, specific loading and unloading requirements, the expertise of operators, and the overall pricing structure. Each transport option offers a range of benefits, from the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of open-air transport to the specialized capabilities of heavy hauling. By understanding the types of trailers, such as flatbeds, lowboys, and RGNs, businesses can make informed decisions that align with their operational needs, budget, and safety requirements.

The selection of a shipping method for scissor lifts involves careful consideration of trailers, haulers, forklifts, cranes, dimensions, safety, and price. By partnering with towing services, freight experts, and specialized operators, businesses can ensure their scissor lifts are transported securely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulatory standards.

The Cost of Shipping a Scissor Lift

The cost of shipping a scissor lift will vary depending on a few things.When transporting heavy equipment, there are several factors to consider. For example, the type of trailer or truck needed to transport the equipment, the weight, height, and width of the equipment, and the distance it needs to be transported.

• Weight: The weight of the scissor lift will impact the fuel efficiency and the weight limit that the driver can haul. The more the load weighs, the more it will cost to transport. Some healing vehicles have a maximum weight they can support. Therefore, the weight of the scissor lift may require using a bigger carrier, and that's more costly.
• Size: Larger items take up more space so that transport may cost more. This is true due to carriers not being able to haul more customers at one time and the possibility of having to use a larger carrier for delivery. However, it should be pointed out that if your shipment you can save money when you ship your lift as a partial load. This means the carriers can ship it together with the equipment of other customers.
• Distance: The distance from where the scissor lift is picked up to where it needs to be delivered will factor into the overall cost for shipment.

Some equipment requires a specific type of trailer or vehicle for transport, such as forklifts, excavators, and attachments. In addition, the weight and size of the equipment will determine the amount of gas needed to transport it, as well as the amount of maintenance required for the vehicle.

Before transporting heavy equipment, it's important to make sure that the drivers are properly trained and experienced in handling that type of equipment. They should also be aware of any special components or accessories that may need to be included in the shipment.

To ensure that the equipment arrives safely, it's important to pack it carefully. This may involve disassembling some parts of the equipment, such as removing attachments and packaging them separately. It's also important to use proper packaging materials and techniques to prevent damage during transport.

When transporting heavy equipment, it's important to provide detailed information, including the model and any special components or accessories, to the transportation company. This will help them determine the best type of trailer or truck for the job and provide accurate quotes for the amount of gas, maintenance, and packaging required.

Ensuring Safety during Scissor Lift Shipping

Ensuring the safety of people and equipment during the shipping of scissor lifts is paramount. The process involves a lot of coordination and adherence to safety protocols to protect the machinery, the shipping personnel, and all other related assets.

Here are the different safety measures that should be taken into account when shipping a scissor lift:

• Proper Loading and Securing: Before shipping, the scissor lift must be properly loaded onto the transport vehicle, such as a flatbed trailer or a lowboy trailer. Trained professionals should conduct the use of tools and equipment like cranes or forklifts to ensure the lift is positioned and secured correctly, minimizing the risk of movement during transit. Boom lifts or pallet jacks can assist in the positioning of smaller items or components.
• Use of Appropriate Restraints: Once on the transport vehicle, the scissor lift must be secured with durable restraints. Chains, straps, and locking mechanisms should be inspected for integrity and strength. This step is crucial to prevent any shift or slide of the machine, ensuring it remains stationary throughout the journey.
• Weight Distribution: Attention to the weight distribution of the transport vehicle is essential. An unevenly loaded trailer can lead to handling issues and an increased risk of accidents. The weight of the scissor lift, along with any additional tools or products being shipped, should be evenly distributed to maintain balance.
• Clearance and Height Checks: Before departure, verify the total height of the loaded scissor lift and ensure it complies with road regulations and clearance restrictions. This is important to avoid collisions with bridges, tunnels, or overhead cables.
• Access and Egress Safety: Ensure that there is safe access and egress for workers involved in the loading and unloading process. Ramps should be secure and of adequate size, and any excavator or crane used in the process should be operated with safety in mind, keeping all people at a safe distance.
• Documentation and Details: Proper documentation of the load, including weight, dimensions, and securing measures, should be maintained. This includes having an order of operations for the loading and unloading process and ensuring all steps are followed in sequence for maximum safety.
• Training and Awareness: All personnel involved in the shipping process should be trained in the safe handling of heavy machinery like scissor lifts. This includes awareness of potential hazards and knowledge of emergency procedures.
• Inspection upon Arrival: Upon reaching its destination, the scissor lift should be carefully inspected for any signs of damage or wear that might have occurred during transit. This ensures the machine remains in good working order and is safe for use in upcoming jobs.

Relevant Statistics

• Over 90% of scissor lifts shipped globally are transported by sea freight.
• The average weight of a shipped scissor lift is approximately 3,800 pounds.
• Scissor lift shipping accounts for more than $5 billion in global logistics revenue annually.
• Approximately 80% of scissor lifts shipped internationally are containerized.
• The average transit time for a scissor lift to be shipped from China to the United States is 25 days.

General Facts

• Scissor lift shipping refers to the transportation of scissor lifts, which are heavy equipment used for lifting and positioning workers or objects at elevated heights.
• Scissor lifts can be shipped domestically or internationally, depending on the destination.
• It is important to use specialized carriers equipped with the necessary equipment and expertise to handle scissor lift shipping safely.
• Proper packaging and securing of scissor lifts during shipping is crucial to prevent any damage or accidents during transit.
• Shipping costs for scissor lifts may vary based on factors such as distance, size, weight, and mode of transportation chosen.

Why Ship with A-1 Auto Transport

At A-1 Auto Transport, we have more than 30 years of experience in the transport industry. Our large fleet of reliable carriers can help you move heavy machinery, construction equipment, motor vehicles, forklifts and pallets to different areas within the country and around the world. Our transport services cover all logistics aspects, including transit and care during shipping. You can rest assured that your cargo is in good hands with us.

Our team is equipped to handle all your transportation requirements, including warehouse and hoisting solutions. We have the necessary equipment, including cranes and excavators, to handle any cargo. We also offer palletizing services to ensure that your items are secure during transport.

All our clients can rely on us for safe and efficient transportation services. We take care of your cargo from the moment it leaves your facility until it arrives at its destination.

Get a Quote Today!

To receive a quote without any hassle, you can complete the quote form on this page or quickly reach one of our agents at 1-888-230-9116 for affordable rates and prompt service. Are you looking to transport your stop deck? Our shippers are experienced in handling all types of cargo and can answer any questions you may have. Let us do the work for you and ensure a smooth transport from ramp to hand.