Used scissor lifts in the UK: technical, safety and financial factors

Used mobile elevating work platforms are a familiar sight on UK construction sites, in warehouses and across facilities management. When budgets are tight, many organisations consider acquiring a used scissor lift rather than buying new or relying solely on rental. To make a sound choice, it is important to look beyond the sticker price and weigh technical condition, legal safety duties and the total cost of ownership over several years.

Why choose a used scissor lift?

Opting for a used machine can reduce capital expenditure considerably compared with buying new equipment. Depreciation on access platforms is steepest in the first few years, so later buyers often benefit from lower prices while still gaining many years of productive life, especially if the machine has been properly maintained. For businesses that only need working‑at‑height access periodically or for shorter projects, a used unit can provide a practical balance between cost and capability.

The choice is not purely financial. Buying used can shorten lead times compared with ordering new equipment, which is useful when project schedules are tight. However, it is essential to consider engine hours or lift cycles, service records and the quality of previous upkeep. High‑hour machines that have missed routine maintenance may look good cosmetically but could require significant repair work, particularly to hydraulic systems, structural components or batteries on electric models.

Where used scissor lifts are commonly applied

Used platforms are widely employed across UK industries where working at height is routine but buying new equipment is not always justified. Typical applications include warehouse stock picking, racking installation, building maintenance, retail fit‑outs, ceiling and lighting work, and mechanical and electrical installations. In these environments, compact electric units with non‑marking tyres are often preferred because they produce no exhaust emissions and are suited to smooth, level floors.

Outdoors, rough‑terrain diesel models are popular for cladding, roofing, structural steelwork and general construction tasks. Here, ground conditions, slope and wind exposure become especially important. Before purchasing, buyers should match working height, platform capacity, outreach and terrain capability to the kinds of jobs they undertake most frequently. Choosing a unit that is underspecified can lead to unsafe improvisation, while overspecifying may add unnecessary cost and complexity.

Where UK buyers source used scissor lifts: dealers, auctions and rentals

In the UK, there are three main channels for sourcing used platforms. First, authorised dealers and specialist access equipment distributors supply refurbished units from manufacturers such as Genie, JLG, Skyjack and Haulotte, often with documented service histories and some form of limited warranty. These can be sourced through national dealer networks and dedicated resale divisions of hire companies.

Second, plant and machinery auctions, including operators like Ritchie Bros. and Euro Auctions, dispose of equipment from fleets, insolvencies and major contractors. Prices at auction can be attractive, but machines are commonly sold “as seen”, placing more responsibility on the buyer to inspect condition and verify documentation. Third, many national and regional rental firms periodically sell ex‑rental fleet units through resale websites or direct sales teams, providing a middle ground between dealer support and auction pricing.

Comparing purchase options for used scissor lifts in the UK

When comparing purchase options, it helps to look at typical cost ranges alongside the different risk profiles. Smaller indoor electric units with working heights around 6–8 metres might change hands in the region of a few thousand pounds, whereas larger diesel rough‑terrain platforms with higher capacities can cost substantially more. Weekly rental for occasional use may appear cheaper at first, but frequent hire over several years can exceed the cost of ownership. All figures are indicative: actual prices vary with age, hours, brand, specification and market conditions, and they change over time.

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

Beyond headline prices, buyers should compare warranty cover, pre‑delivery inspections, return or buy‑back policies and the ease of obtaining genuine spare parts. Dealer‑refurbished units may cost more initially but reduce the risk of immediate repair bills. Auction purchases can be cheaper but require more technical confidence and allowance in the budget for remedial work. Ex‑rental machines often show cosmetic wear yet may have been maintained systematically to fleet standards.

Costs, maintenance and insurance to expect

The financial impact of a used platform extends well beyond the purchase price. Routine servicing is required to keep lifting mechanisms, hydraulics and control systems in safe working order. In the UK, thorough examinations under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) are typically required at least every six months for equipment used to lift people. These statutory inspections are separate from regular maintenance and should be factored into annual operating budgets.

Common running costs include replacement batteries for electric units, engine servicing for diesel machines, tyre replacement, hydraulic hose repairs and consumables such as filters and fluids. Over several years, these expenses can equal or exceed the original purchase price, especially if the machine was already well used at the time of purchase. It is therefore sensible to set aside a maintenance reserve and to obtain indicative servicing quotes from local engineers before committing.

Insurance is another important element. Many UK organisations arrange cover under “own plant” insurance, which protects against theft or damage to equipment they own, and often combine this with public liability insurance to address third‑party risks. Where platforms are occasionally rented in addition to owned machines, “hired‑in plant” insurance may also be required. Premiums depend on factors such as location, security measures and claims history, so any example figures should be viewed as estimates only and checked with a broker or insurer for current terms.

Technical and safety checks before committing

Technical and safety considerations should guide every stage of assessing a used platform. Before purchase, buyers should confirm the serial number, year of manufacture and that the machine carries valid conformity markings and identification plates. Reviewing service records, previous LOLER reports and any documented repairs helps reveal recurring issues or signs of heavy use. A physical inspection should cover structural welds, scissor arms, platform guardrails, pins and bushes, as well as hydraulic cylinders and hoses for leaks or corrosion.

Functional checks are equally important. Controls should operate smoothly from both platform and ground, including emergency lowering functions and emergency stop switches. Safety features such as tilt sensors, load sensing systems and pothole protection devices must work as intended. After purchase, the owner is responsible for ensuring that operation complies with UK health and safety legislation, including suitable risk assessments, operator training, use of harnesses where appropriate, and attention to ground conditions, weather and safe access to and from the platform.

A careful balance of technical inspection, safety compliance and realistic financial planning allows UK organisations to decide whether buying a used platform aligns with their work patterns and risk appetite. By understanding where machines come from, what they are likely to cost over their lifetime and which safety checks are non‑negotiable, buyers can integrate used equipment into their operations in a controlled and informed way.