When a task requires working at heights, choosing the right equipment is crucial for safety and efficiency. Two of the most common tools for reaching elevated areas are cherry pickers and boom lifts. Understanding the differences between a cherry picker and a boom lift can help you select the best option for your project.

What is a Cherry Picker?

 

A cherry picker, also known as an aerial work platform (AWP), is a type of mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) designed for lifting people to heights that are otherwise difficult to reach. Its name originates from picking fruit from tall trees but has now migrated to be used across various industries, including construction, painting, maintenance, and utility work.

 

The hydraulic arm extends and raises a platform where the operator stands. The platform is usually enclosed with guardrails for safety. Cherry pickers are ideal for tasks that require flexibility in movement, such as tree trimming, window cleaning, and electrical repairs.

What is a Boom Lift?

 

A boom lift is a type of MEWP that offers more versatility and further reach compared to a cherry picker. Boom lifts can be classified into two main types: articulated boom lifts (knuckle booms) and telescopic boom lifts (stick booms).

 

Articulated Boom Lifts have multiple sections that can bend or "articulate," allowing the platform to reach over obstacles and access areas that are hard to reach with a straight arm. Ideal For: Complex worksites, such as those with machinery or building structures in the way.

 

Telescopic Boom Lifts: These feature a straight arm that extends horizontally and vertically. 

Ideal For: Tasks that require maximum reach, such as working on tall buildings or accessing high shelves in warehouses.

Key Differences Between Cherry Pickers and Boom Lifts

 

While both cherry pickers and boom lifts are used for lifting workers to elevated heights, there are some key differences:

Reach and Flexibility:

• Boom lifts offer greater reach and can access more challenging locations.  
• Cherry pickers are best suited for jobs that require access to moderately high areas with some manoeuvrability. You can also find small cherry pickers to fit smaller jobs.

 

Platform Size:

• Cherry pickers usually have smaller access platforms designed for one or two people and their tools. You can hire a cherry picker for residential or business needs across London.
• Boom lifts often have larger platforms, which can accommodate multiple workers and heavier equipment.

 

Types of Movement:

• Cherry pickers are ideal for straightforward vertical lifts.
• Boom lifts, especially articulated ones, provide a wider range of movement, allowing for more complex positioning.

 

Common Uses:

• Cherry pickers are commonly used for tasks like tree surgery, maintenance work, and streetlight repairs. 
• Boom lifts are used in construction, industrial tasks, and any project that requires reaching high or hard-to-access places, maybe such as painting 

Which One Should You Choose?

 

For projects with vertical lifts or moderate heights, a cherry picker might be the best option. It's perfect for jobs that don’t require extensive horizontal reach or complex positioning.

 

For projects needing extended reach or access over obstacles, a boom lift, particularly an articulated model, would be more suitable. It offers greater flexibility and the ability to navigate around obstacles, making it ideal for more complex worksites.

 

Understanding the difference between a cherry picker and a boom lift can help you make an informed decision to successfully tackle your next project. Both types of equipment have their unique advantages and are essential tools for working safely and efficiently at heights. If you need a straightforward lift or a more versatile solution, choosing the right equipment is key to getting the job done right.

 

FAQ’s

 

Can both cherry pickers and boom lifts be used indoors?
Yes, both can be used indoors, but it's essential to select the right type based on space constraints and power source. Electric-powered models are suitable for indoor use to avoid emissions, and articulating boom lifts are often preferred indoors for their manoeuvrability in tight spaces.

 

Which lift offers a greater horizontal reach: cherry picker or telescopic boom lift?

 

Telescopic boom lifts generally provide a greater horizontal reach compared to cherry pickers. Their straight arms can extend further horizontally, making them ideal for tasks that require extended outreach.

 

Are cherry pickers more expensive to rent than other boom lifts?

 

Rental costs vary based on factors like lift height, reach, power source, and region. Generally, cherry pickers start from £250/ hour plus VAT. 

 

What industries commonly use cherry pickers over other boom lifts?

Industries such as utilities, tree care, construction, and building maintenance often prefer cherry pickers for their ability to navigate around obstacles and access hard-to-reach areas. Their articulating arms make them suitable for complex tasks requiring precision.