Choosing the Right Tracked Cherry Picker for Your Project

When it comes to elevated work projects, choosing the appropriate tracked cherry picker, also known as a boom lift, is paramount for ensuring both efficiency and safety. These versatile machines, with their ability to extend their booms to significant heights, have become indispensable tools in construction, maintenance, and various other industries where accessing high locations is essential. 

The choice of the right tracked cherry picker depends on a range of factors, including the specific task at hand, the working environment, and the required working height. In this post, we will guide you through the key considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right cherry picker for your specific project needs.

Understanding Cherry Picker Varieties

Cherry pickers come in various types, each suited to different tasks and environments. The most common types include telescopic boom lifts, which have a straight arm and are ideal for reaching heights in a linear path, and articulating boom lifts, known for their flexibility in navigating around obstacles.

Consider the Working Environment

The environment where you will be using the cherry picker significantly influences your choice. For indoor projects, consider an electrically powered model to avoid fumes and noise. These models often have non-marking tyres to protect indoor flooring. For outdoor projects, especially on uneven terrain, opt for a model with four-wheel drive and robust tyres.

Height and Reach Requirements

The primary function of a cherry picker is to provide access to elevated areas. Determine the maximum height you need to reach and consider the reach requirement; the distance horizontally from the machine to the work area. Some projects may need a cherry picker with a telescopic boom for direct vertical reach, while others may require an articulating boom to manoeuvre around obstacles.

Weight Capacity

Consider the weight capacity that the cherry picker must support. This includes not only the weight of the workers but also any tools and materials that they will need to carry with them. Overloading a cherry picker can be dangerous, so ensure the model you choose can safely accommodate your needs.

Manoeuvrability and Size

The size of the cherry picker is crucial, especially for projects in confined spaces. Check the dimensions of the equipment to ensure it can fit through narrow passages or doors if required. Some cherry pickers are designed to be more compact, making them ideal for indoor use or in areas with limited space.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount when working at heights. Look for cherry pickers with robust safety features like guardrails, harness points, and emergency descent mechanisms. Modern cherry pickers often come with advanced safety systems, including sensors and alarms, to prevent accidents.

Rental or Purchase

Decide whether to rent or purchase the cherry picker. Renting can be a cost-effective option for short-term or one-off projects. However, if your business regularly undertakes projects requiring such equipment, purchasing may be more economical in the long run.

Training and Certification

Ensure that the operators of the cherry picker are adequately trained and certified. Operating this equipment requires skill and knowledge to ensure safety. Investing in proper training for your team is essential.

Interested in Hiring a Tracked Cherry Picker?

Tracked cherry pickers offer a safe, efficient, and versatile solution for accessing elevated work areas. With their impressive reach, manoeuvrability, and adaptability to challenging terrain, these machines have become indispensable tools in a wide range of industries. With the right equipment and a commitment to safety, tracked cherry pickers can transform your elevated work projects into streamlined and successful endeavours.

Here at Tracked Access, we provide tracked cherry picker hire, providing compact, versatile lifts ideal for uneven terrain and tight spaces. With a range from 15m to 42m, these cherry pickers navigate narrow gaps and are perfect for indoor and outdoor tasks, including maintenance and construction. Our fleet, backed by over 20 years of experience, ensures safety and efficiency. Contact our expert team today on 0330 332 0714 or visit our website for tailored lift hire solutions.