Scissor Lifts for Sale UK | Electric, Diesel & Rough Terrain | APS
APS supplies new and approved used scissor lifts across the UK – electric indoor models, diesel rough terrain machines, and compact platforms for tight spaces. Working heights from 5.8m to 16.2m, from JLG, LGMG, Genie, Skyjack, and Niftylift. As an independent supplier since 1987, we’re not tied to one manufacturer – we’ll recommend the right machine for your application, not the easiest one to sell.
Authorised distributor of JLG · LGMG · Genie · Skyjack · Niftylift
Types of Scissor Lift Available
Electric / Lithium Scissor Lifts
Battery powered, zero emissions, and minimal noise during operation. Working heights from 5.8m to 13.9m - the standard choice for indoor environments including warehousing, retail, facilities maintenance, and construction fit-out where diesel fumes or engine noise are not acceptable. Compact models pass through standard doorways and operate on smooth floors without marking. Requires IPAF 3a licence.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts
Engine powered with four-wheel drive and large pneumatic tyres. Working heights from 8m to 16.2m, with high lift capacities for carrying multiple operators and materials simultaneously. Built for outdoor construction sites, uneven ground, and gradients where an electric indoor machine would be unsuitable. Requires IPAF 3a licence.
Low Level Access / Push Arounds
Working heights up to 5.5m. Compact, lightweight platforms for indoor maintenance, warehousing, and light fit-out - the safe, stable alternative to ladders and podium steps in offices, schools, retail, and commercial environments. Easy to manoeuvre through doorways and in occupied spaces. Requires IPAF 3a licence.
Most Popular Scissor Lifts
JLG ES1932
Working Height: 5.80m
Platform Capacity: 230kg
Width: 0.81m
Power: Battery
Requires IPAF 3a licence
JLG ES2632
Working Height: 8.40m
Platform Capacity: 230kg
Width: 0.81m
Power: Battery
Requires IPAF 3a licence
JLG ES3246
Working Height: 9.80m
Platform Capacity: 230kg
Width: 1.17m
Power: Battery
Requires IPAF 3a licence
For projects requiring quick, safe access at lower heights, we also offer low-level push-around platforms from JLG PowerTowers.
These compact access solutions are ideal for indoor maintenance, facilities management, and light construction work, providing safe and efficient access without the need for a full scissor lift.
Key benefits include:
– Lightweight, mobile platforms for easy manoeuvrability and fast setup.
– Built-in safety features to maximise operator protection and productivity
These solutions complement our scissor lift range, helping you cover every access requirement while maximising safety, efficiency, and ROI.
Getting You the Right Scissor Lift
From first conversation to long-term support, our structured process ensures you get the right scissor lift – specified correctly, delivered professionally, and supported for life with no unexpected surprises.
Why Work with APS?
Since 1987, APS has supplied scissor lifts and powered access equipment to contractors, facilities managers, plant hire companies, and businesses across the UK. With nearly four decades of experience, we match the right machine to your application – whether that is a compact electric scissor lift for indoor use or a heavy-duty diesel model for a construction site.
As an independent supplier, we carry scissor lifts from JLG, LGMG, Genie, Skyjack, and Niftylift. We are not tied to one manufacturer, which means we will advise on the machine that suits your site, working height, and budget – not the one that is most convenient for us to sell.
Every scissor lift we supply is delivered fully LOLER certified by our IPAF CAP-qualified engineers, ready to put to work from day one. New machines come with full manufacturer warranty. Approved used scissor lifts are inspected and prepared by our own engineers – a cost-effective route to a reliable machine with faster availability. Finance is available on both.
Our support does not stop at delivery. We provide full aftercare including LOLER inspections every six months, scheduled servicing, fast-response breakdown cover, and genuine OEM parts from our online parts shop with next-day delivery available. Our team has been supporting operators and site managers since 1987 – speak to us about your requirements and we’ll advise on the right machine and support package for your operation.
Scissor Lift FAQs
What is a scissor lift?
A scissor lift is a type of mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) used to raise people, tools, and materials vertically to work safely at height. It features a stable platform and a criss-cross lifting mechanism, making it ideal for construction, maintenance, and indoor access tasks.
Why do they call it a scissor lift?
The name comes from the criss-cross linked mechanism that extends and retracts to raise and lower the platform – the same scissor-like action you see in a pair of scissors. As the mechanism extends, the platform rises vertically in a stable, controlled movement.
Do you need a harness in a scissor lift?
In most scissor lift operations a harness is not required because the platform has integral guardrails that act as collective fall protection. However, site rules, risk assessments, and specific machine configurations may require one. Operators should always follow their employer’s risk assessment and the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific machine.
What types of scissor lifts are there?
The main types are electric slab scissor lifts for indoor use, diesel rough terrain scissor lifts for outdoor construction sites, and compact narrow scissor lifts for confined spaces. There are also tracked crawler scissor lifts for soft or uneven ground. See our full new machines range for the full selection.
How does a scissor lift work?
A scissor lift raises its platform using a linked criss-cross mechanism driven by hydraulic cylinders. As the cylinders extend, the crossing arms push against each other and force the platform upward. Lowering reverses the process. The mechanism provides a stable, vertical lift with a large platform deck.
What is a scissor lift used for?
Scissor lifts are used wherever safe, stable access is needed at height – construction fit-out, facilities maintenance, warehouse stock picking, retail, events, and electrical or mechanical installation work. Electric models are standard for indoor environments; diesel rough terrain models suit outdoor construction sites.
What’s the difference between electric and diesel scissor lifts?
Electric scissor lifts run on battery power, producing zero emissions and minimal noise – the standard choice for indoor or emissions-restricted environments. Diesel rough terrain scissor lifts are engine powered with four-wheel drive, built for outdoor sites and uneven ground where an electric machine would be unsuitable.
How high can a scissor lift go?
APS supplies scissor lifts with working heights from 5.8m up to 16.2m. The right working height depends on the task – compact electric models typically reach 6m to 10m, while rough terrain diesel machines reach up to 16m. Contact our team for advice on the right specification for your application.
What is the weight capacity of a scissor lift?
Lift capacities vary by model and typically range from 230kg to 680kg or more on larger rough terrain machines. Capacity covers operators, tools, and materials combined. Always check the machine’s rated capacity before loading – exceeding it is a safety and compliance risk under LOLER and PUWER.
Are scissor lifts safe?
Yes, when correctly selected, operated by a competent person, and maintained to the required standard. Operators should hold a valid IPAF 3a licence, carry out a pre-use inspection before every shift, and operate within the machine’s rated capacity and gradient limits. All APS machines are supplied with a current LOLER certificate and ready for immediate use.
What maintenance does a scissor lift need?
Scissor lifts require a pre-use check by the operator before every shift, periodic servicing in line with the manufacturer’s schedule, and a LOLER thorough examination every six months. APS AfterCare covers all of these – scheduled servicing, LOLER inspections, and fast-response breakdown cover nationwide.
Should I buy a new or used scissor lift?
New scissor lifts offer the latest specification, full manufacturer warranty, and the ability to configure to your exact requirements. Approved used scissor lifts from APS are inspected and prepared by our own IPAF CAP-qualified engineers, come with a current LOLER certificate and 90-day warranty on parts and labour, and are available faster at a lower upfront cost. Contact our team to discuss which option suits your budget and timeline.
