Find the best electric and towable boom lifts for rent with United Rentals. Boom lifts come in two designs: articulating (knuckle) booms and telescopic (straight) booms. Articulating boom lifts are aerial work platforms with multiple sections that "articulate," allowing the user to gain access to work areas that may be blocked by barriers or obstacles. Also known as "knuckle booms," these units are very versatile and work well in areas with hard-to-reach places.

Telescopic boom lifts are aerial work platforms with sections that extend telescopically. They are commonly referred to as “stick booms.” These lifts offer greater horizontal outreach than any other type of aerial platform, allowing you to work in areas with limited access points.

FAQs About Boom Lifts

Can a boom lift be used as a crane?

• OSHA regulation prohibits boom lifts from being used outside its intended use, including functioning as a crane. Regulations also prohibit a crane from being used as an aerial platform.

How high do boom lifts go?

• The maximum height of boom lifts varies by model. United Rentals offers a variety of boom lifts for a range of jobs, including S-Boom Telescopic Lifts 40' to 85' Heights, Telescopic and Articulating Boom Lifts 29' to 86' Heights and Articulating Boom Lifts 30' to 80' Heights, Genie Z-Boom Aerial Lifts 30' to 60' Heights, Trailer Boom Lifts 34' to 50' Heights, and diesel-powered High Reach Boom Lifts 120' to 185' Heights.

What is the horizontal reach?

• Horizontal reach is the distance the platform can be safely away from the base of the boom lift. The horizontal reach of a lift varies by model. Reference OSHA regulations before renting to ensure the boom lift is the right aerial work platform for the job. Typically, articulating boom lifts have a much higher vertical reach than horizontal reach.