Scissor Lift Cost – Complete 2025 Guide for Businesses

In our 25 years of experience supplying quality aerial lift equipment across the United States, many ask how much does a scissor lift costor, at the very least, a range of its prices for those planning to purchase one for their fleet. But the answer often depends far more than just the price tag.

Three primary factors determine scissor lift cost, and those depend on whether you’re planning to purchase a brand-new unit, a used or secondhand model, or opt for rental.

Over the years, our loyal clients in construction and facility management have shared valuable insights about the real costs of buying and renting. We’ve gathered these experiences and combined them with our industry expertise to provide you with practical, data-backed guidance in this comprehensive cost guide.

The average scissor lift costs around $15,000 to $60,000 for a new unit, while used models typically range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on their condition and specifications. Each supplier quotes varying prices based on brand, model, and condition of the scissor lift. Smaller resellers may price their units higher due to limited stock and tighter profit margins, while larger suppliers like Zuma Sales often provide a wider selection across various models and conditions with more flexible and competitive pricing.

Rental rates also fall within their own range. Their fees may vary depending on duration, model type, and lift capacity. In this section, we’ll uncover these cost variations in detail to leave all the guesswork aside and help you make an informed decision. Our primary goal here is to ensure that your investment aligns with your project requirements and budget.

Brand new scissor lifts are for buyers who want to get long-term reliability at about 20 years or more of consistent usage. Purchasing a new scissor lift means you get minimal maintenance issues, smooth performance, and the latest technology.

While the initial scissor lift price may seem higher compared to used units or renting, the overall cost of a scissor lift in new condition often proves more economical over time due to its reduced repair expenses and, of course, better resale value when you need to put them in the market.

In the table below, you’ll find a breakdown of the average cost range of both new electric scissor lifts and rough terrain scissor lifts, along with some of the best models we recommend for the year 2025.

There are business types that rely heavily on scissor lifts, like those in the construction, maintenance, and warehouse industries. They benefit from the consistent performance and warranty coverage that only new models can provide, and there’s no second-guessing that brand-new models are the most winning choice for industries like theirs. 

Used scissor lifts are often the sweet spot between renting and buying a brand-new one. It offers a practical middle ground for businesses seeking reliable equipment without the high upfront cost of a brand-new scissor lift.

The lower cost of a scissor lift in used condition is what makes it an attractive option for growing businesses, including contractors and facility managers. However, the value of a used scissor lift depends heavily on how it has been well-maintained by the suppliers, the number of operation hours, and the overall mechanical condition.

Below, you’ll find the average used scissor lift cost by type, along with what to inspect before buying:

Used scissor lifts offer the advantages of asset ownership, long-term usability, and resale potential, allowing you to recover some of the capital spent on their purchase. At Zuma Sales, we ensure that every used scissor lift in our inventory undergoes rigorous inspection and testing by our expert in-house technicians to guarantee consistent performance and safety on the job where you’ll use it. 

Renting a scissor lift is a convenient solution for short-term projects, seasonal workloads, or occasional maintenance work. Most scissor lift hire cost varies depending on the type of lift you’re renting, duration, and location. It’s also important to keep in mind that almost all rental companies charge additional delivery and pickup fees that may require additional budget allowance to the overall scissor lift hire price.

We want to make sure that you understand these variables to prepare you to plan your budgets effectively and avoid any unexpected rental costs. See the table below for a general overview of the average scissor lift rental rates by lift type and rental duration:

While renting offers short-term flexibility, it’s important to recognize that it remains a recurring expense with no ROI or even resale potential. Every payment only covers temporary usage, meaning none of the capital invested can be recovered after the rental period ends. In many cases, a weekly rental fee can already cost as much as a monthly financing payment toward owning a scissor lift.

In summary of the preceding sections, these key takeaways are a quick and practical summary of the most important points about scissor lift costs. Think of this as a gentle reminder of what to consider when budgeting for whether to rent, purchase a brand-new scissor lift, or a used one.

• Price depends on type and condition – New electric scissor lifts typically range from $20,000 to $35,000. Rough terrain models can go up to around $70,000. Used units, on the other hand, are more affordable, ranging $8,000 to $35,000.

• Renting suits for short-term needs – Renting is a cost-effective solution for seasonal or one-off projects. They don’t offer any return on investment, but are an added expense to the business.

• Multiple factors influence cost – Power type, lift height, brand, and maintenance impact total investment.

• Trusted dealers ensure you get good deals – Look for transparency through complete inspection reports, partnerships with industry-leading brands, and flexible financing options that fit your business goals.

If you’re still deciding which lift height or platform size matches your project needs, our Complete Guide to Scissor Lift Sizes and Heights can help you with that. It’s a straightforward resource to help you choose the right lift confidently and avoid overspending on unnecessary capacity.

There’s no fixed rate that suppliers follow for scissor lifts. Several factors affect the prices of scissor lifts. When canvassing, you’ll often notice that some units are more expensive while others stay within a modest price range.

Before setting your budgets or comparing listings, it’s important to understand what drives these prices at different rates.

The general rule of scissor pricing is based on their reach height. The higher the reach of your chosen scissor lift, the higher the cost will be. This is because taller lifts require stronger materials, reinforced structures, and more advanced systems to make sure it is stable and safe at elevated heights. These are not just designs, but considered upgrades on every aspect of their capacities. This naturally increases the overall scissor lift price compared to smaller and compact models.

Before deciding on lift height and platform size, it’s also worth reviewing the OSHA scissor lift safety standards to ensure your chosen model meets all federal safety requirements for elevated work platforms.

Choosing the right lift height and platform size should always depend on your job requirements and site conditions. Oversizing may mean unnecessary costs, while undersizing could limit efficiency and safety on-site.

Electric scissor lifts are battery-powered. This type of scissor lift is ideal for indoor and emission-restricted environments. They are overall quieter, energy-efficient, and lower in maintenance, which greatly reduces the cost of ownership.

Hydraulic scissor lifts are the dual-fuel or diesel type; they are the best for heavy-duty outdoor jobs. Diesel scissor lifts also offer higher lifting capacities and extended duty cycles since they do not require frequent charging, unlike electric scissor lifts.

The table below will give you an overview of the differences between these two types in terms of use cases, maintenance, environmental impact, and their typical price ranges. 

Some brands have set the industry standard for more than five decades now and have been trusted by professionals for their durability and engineered performance. Their reputation is a reflection of years of innovation, focusing on enhanced long-term value and advanced safety features when working at heights.

Investing in a reputable brand may come with a higher upfront cost, but it guarantees confidence in superior safety features, longer service life, higher resale value, and dependable aftermarket support.

To better understand how these scissor lift top brands differ in features and technology, here’s a breakdown of leading names in the market:

One of the most overlooked aspects when purchasing a scissor lift is asking what comes after the purchase, such as the ongoing maintenance and warranty coverage. The initial investment covers the purchase price or rental costs, but the long-term ownership cost includes the operational uptime and even resale value.

There could be several hundred to a few thousand dollars per year in upkeep of the equipment itself. A strong warranty reduces huge out-of-pocket repair costs and reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in its equipment. Some brands may offer a standard one-year warranty coverage for parts and labor, while others can extend up to three years for structural components.

In the long run, a scissor lift with slightly higher upfront pricing but comprehensive warranty coverage can often be more cost-effective than a cheaper model with limited protection.

The decision of whether to buy a scissor lift or to rent is a common discussion for businesses. While renting may seem appealing for one-off projects, purchasing a scissor lift for sale offers long-term benefits and a better return on investment, especially if you have recurring tasks at height.

Here's a detailed comparison of both options:

At Zuma Sales, we specialize in helping businesses transition from rental dependency to equipment ownership, while offering financing options that often result in monthly payments lower than comparable rental rates.

We believe that owning an additional asset is more practical than paying for a rental fee that may equal the purchase price over time if all added up. 

There are several types of lifts, and each of them serves different purposes in the field. It’s important to find the most cost-effective solution to your elevation needs to really maximize your investment. While scissor lifts are generally the best solution when you need straightforward vertical access, some tasks may involve extended reach around obstacles. So, when evaluating lift pricing, it’s essential to know how each type of lift performs, more than just by looking at the price tag.

The table below provides a clear breakdown of how scissor lifts stack against other common lift equipment in both price and practicality.

Before making your final decision, it’s worth understanding the full range of lift options available for different job requirements. 

Choosing Zuma Sales means partnering with a team dedicated to your success. We don't just provide you with what you think you need at the time of purchase; we ensure you can rely on us, both pre- and post-purchase, to the best of our abilities.

Here’s why Zuma Sales should be your top choice among all lift equipment suppliers and dealers in the market:

• Expert guidance:Our specialists help you choose the right equipment for your project, so you never waste time and money on the wrong equipment.

• 24/7 support: We’re always available online to assist whenever you need help with your equipment.

• Flexible financing: We offer simple, transparent financing options with no hidden fees for both new and used equipment.

• Trusted brands: We only partner with industry-leading manufacturers known for reliability and performance in the aerial lift market.

• Nationwide delivery: We provide fast delivery and responsive service to keep your operations running without delay. Wherever you are in the US.

Ready to move forward? Contact us today and request a customized quote tailored to your specific lift equipment needs.