Renting vs Buying a Scissor Lift: Which Makes More Sense?

Renting vs buying a scissor lift comes down to how long and how often you need one: renting can work for a single short-term project, but each rental adds delivery, pickup and other fees on top of the rental itself, while a used scissor lift you buy has no recurring fees, no time limits, and can be resold later. The Lift Bros does not rent scissor lifts; we help customers find the right used scissor lift to buy. Here is how the two options compare for business or personal use.

What does it cost to rent a scissor lift?

A scissor lift rental bill is usually more than the rental rate itself. One rental company's quote for a 19-foot Genie scissor lift included:

• The rental charge for the time period, such as two weeks
• A drop-off and pickup fee
• Other fees, such as administrative or environmental charges

Renting is the go-to option for many businesses that only need a lift for a short-term project or a specific task. A rental quote covers only the time you use the lift, though. If your project timeline stretches longer than expected, if you need multiple lifts, or if you rent frequently, those rental and delivery charges add up with every job.

Is it cheaper to buy a used scissor lift than to rent?

Over the long term, buying a used scissor lift often makes more sense than renting, both financially and operationally. The price of a used lift depends on factors like the year of manufacture, whether the lift is refurbished, and the condition of its parts.

• Upfront savings: Used lifts cost less upfront than new models.
• No recurring fees: After the purchase, there are no rental fees, so the longer you use the lift, the better the return on your investment.

What do you get by owning a scissor lift instead of renting?

Owning a scissor lift gives you full control: no time limits, no rental terms, and a lift that is ready when you are.

• No time limits: Keep the lift as long as you need it, whether for a big job or occasional use.
• No rental terms: Owning means no return deadlines or late-return charges.
• Personal or business use: Use the lift for a home project, construction work, or maintenance at your place of business.
• Your own maintenance schedule: With a rental, maintenance and repairs are up to the rental company. With your own lift, you control the maintenance schedule so it is in working order when you need it.

Can you resell a scissor lift?

Yes. A scissor lift you own is an asset you can sell if you no longer need it, while rental payments never come back to you.

• Sell it if you outgrow the need: If your business or project changes and you no longer need the lift, you can sell it and recoup some of what you spent.
• Residual value: Used lifts can hold a good share of their value, especially when they are well maintained and in good working condition. With proper care, a scissor lift can last for many years.

Are used and refurbished scissor lifts reliable?

A well-inspected used or refurbished scissor lift can be a dependable machine at a lower price than new. Many used lifts, especially refurbished ones, go through inspections and repairs before they are sold.

Should you rent or buy a scissor lift?

• Rent if you need a lift for one short-term project or a specific task.
• Buy if you will use a lift repeatedly, for longer than planned, or on more than one job: you avoid repeated rental and delivery fees, gain ownership flexibility, and keep an asset you can resell.

For many businesses and individuals, a used scissor lift is the more cost-effective choice over time. The Lift Bros can help you find a used lift that suits your needs and budget.