Specifying and buying an access platform can often be a daunting process, there are multiple manufacturers to choose from as well as what seems like an endless amount of companies claiming to be experts.
Our recommendation is to firstly speak to a company that is an approved dealer for one of the leading manufacturers, such as Genie. Using an approved dealer means that any repairs that may be required, can be carried out on your machine without jeopardizing the warranty. Genie's warranty is one of the best available, scissor lifts and booms are covered by a 5 year structural warranty and 2 years warranty on the electrics and hydraulics. Genie Runabouts are covered by a 2 year warranty and Genie's trailer mounted booms and personnel lifts are covered by a 1 year warranty.
The price of access platforms, especially used access platforms can seem to vary from supplier to supplier. Going for the cheapest machine that you can find is often a mistake. For instance, it is a fact that Genie Lifts offer the customer the lowest overall cost of ownership. Factors such as reliability, commonality of parts, the availability and pricing of replacement parts and future values all pay a large part in determining the overall cost of ownership.
Before you decide to go ahead and order an access platform, it is always a good idea to go along and inspect it. That way, not only do you get a chance to take a look at the quality of the machine but you can also take a view on the type of company and person that you may be buying it from.
The standard of used access platforms can vary a great deal, if something is priced at such a low price and appears to good to be true, it often is. A reputable approved dealer will have high standard that they work too, as well as extensive knowledge of each type of machine. You should always buy a used access platform that has recently been serviced and issued with a new 6 monthly LOLER (Lifting operations and lifting equipment regulations) certificate. This can only be carried out by a CAP (Competent assessed person) registered engineer, any reputable supplier will have their own CAP registered engineer. Also, a reputable approved dealer will be willing to offer a warranty with the machine, if no warranty is offered, you have to ask yourself why.
A reputable dealer will be only too happy to carry out a site survey to help determine which machine suits your requirement and budget. On site demonstrations, flexible finance options, warranties, on site operator training and service and maintenance contracts are also something that a reputable approved dealer will be able to offer you