Scissor lift sizes are based on platform height. Working height is platform height plus approximately six feet. A 19 ft lift works for indoor ceilings up to 20 ft. A 26 ft lift suits ceilings up to 28 ft. A 32 ft lift handles mid rise exterior work. A 40 ft lift supports industrial and commercial builds. A 50 ft lift is used for large scale construction. Always choose height based on verified working requirements and site conditions.
Choosing the correct scissor lift height is not a small decision. It affects safety. It affects productivity. It affects cost.
Many contractors select lifts based only on maximum height. That approach leads to overspending or under-performing equipment.
This guide explains exactly what 19 ft, 26 ft, 32 ft, 40 ft, and 50 ft scissor lifts are used for. It also explains the difference between platform height and working height.
Understanding this prevents job site mistakes.
This is critical.
Manufacturers list platform height. Workers actually care about working height.
Working height is typically platform height plus 6 feet. That accounts for average operator reach.
Example.
A 19 ft lift usually means 19 ft platform height. The working height is approximately 25 ft.
Never confuse the two when planning.
19 ft
25 ft
Indoor commercial work.
Warehouse maintenance.
Retail fit outs.
Electrical ceiling access.
Fire sprinkler adjustments.
This is the most common electric scissor lift size in Toronto. It is compact. It fits through standard doorways. It turns tightly in corridors.
It works best on flat indoor floors.
If you are working in offices, shopping plazas, or schools, a 19 ft lift is usually sufficient.
Do not use it outdoors on uneven surfaces unless the surface is fully paved and level.
26 ft
32 ft
Warehouse racking.
Commercial HVAC installs.
Light industrial ceiling work.
Interior construction in larger spaces.
This is the next step up from a 19 ft lift. It provides additional vertical reach without moving into heavy equipment territory.
It is still commonly electric. It remains compact enough for indoor use.
If your ceiling is higher than 22 ft, a 19 ft lift will not be enough. A 26 ft lift becomes the correct choice.
Contractors often underestimate this height difference.
32 ft
38 ft
Exterior commercial work.
Steel framing support.
Mid rise building façade work.
Warehouse exterior maintenance.
This height begins entering serious construction territory.
Many 32 ft lifts are rough terrain models. They offer larger platforms. They support heavier loads.
They require more staging space.
If your project is outdoors in Ontario and involves cladding or structural installation, this size is often the starting point.
40 ft
46 ft
Mid rise construction.
Industrial facility maintenance.
Exterior glazing support.
Bridge and infrastructure work.
This lift provides serious vertical access.
It is rarely used for indoor commercial retail. It is primarily used for outdoor construction and industrial jobs.
Ground preparation matters at this height. The machine is heavier. The footprint is larger.
Permit planning may also become more complex in downtown Toronto.
Choose 40 ft only when the working height requirement exceeds 38 ft.
50 ft
56 ft
Large commercial builds.
Industrial plant work.
Major façade installation.
High clearance warehouse exteriors.
This is specialized access equipment.
It is not common for small jobs. It requires proper ground assessment and often traffic control planning in urban areas.
The platform capacity may also decrease at maximum height. Always check load charts.
Contractors must confirm space clearance, overhead obstructions, and wind exposure at this height.
This size is typically rough terrain and diesel powered.
Indoor projects in Toronto commonly use 19 ft and 26 ft lifts.
Outdoor commercial projects often begin at 32 ft.
Heavy construction typically requires 40 ft or 50 ft units.
Never choose a higher lift “just in case.” Larger lifts cost more. They require more space. They increase logistical complexity.
Choose based on verified working height requirements.
Mistake one.
Using platform height instead of working height for calculations.
Mistake two.
Ignoring ceiling obstructions like ducts and beams.
Mistake three.
Forgetting ground condition stability for outdoor lifts.
Mistake four.
Selecting electric lifts for rough terrain conditions.
Mistake five.
Overloading platforms at maximum height.
Each of these errors increases risk.
Downtown Toronto projects often involve sidewalk restrictions and staging limits. Larger lifts require more clearance and may trigger permit planning.
Suburban industrial projects in Vaughan and Mississauga offer more flexibility for 40 ft and 50 ft units.
Weather also matters in Ontario. Wind exposure increases at higher platform heights. Always check manufacturer wind ratings.
If your ceiling is under 20 ft. Choose 19 ft.
If your ceiling is 22 to 28 ft. Choose 26 ft.
If your working area is 30 to 36 ft. Choose 32 ft.
If your working height exceeds 40 ft. Choose 40 ft.
If your working height exceeds 46 ft. Choose 50 ft.
Verify actual measurements before booking.
Correct sizing reduces repositioning time.
Correct sizing reduces rental duration.
Correct sizing improves safety.
Correct sizing prevents project delays.
Oversized equipment increases cost and complexity. Undersized equipment increases risk and inefficiency.
Proper planning saves money.
Selecting the correct scissor lift height is a technical decision. It requires accurate measurement, understanding of working height, and awareness of site conditions.
The right lift improves safety and productivity. The wrong lift causes delays and cost overruns.
Measure carefully. Choose based on need. Plan for space and terrain.
That is how professionals approach scissor lift sizing.
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