Buying a spider lift in the UK

Pull together recent jobs and record the range of access widths, setup areas, working heights, horizontal reach and platform loads. Shortlist machines around the work that repeats. For occasional jobs beyond the shortlist’s capabilities, include hired-in equipment in your costing.

Start with the machine’s actual transport weight and include the trailer, attachments and equipment carried. Verify the trailer’s maximum authorised mass, the tow vehicle’s rated limits and the driver’s entitlement. Check the plated gross train weight and confirm the loaded combination where there is any doubt. A brochure machine weight alone cannot determine whether a combination is legal.

Ask for a demonstration under the kind of work you expect to do. Check which functions are available on each power source and how the machine is charged or refuelled. For a used battery model, ask what battery diagnostics, replacement costs and manufacturer support are available.

Match the serial number and specification to the service record, current thorough-examination report and manufacturer manuals. Ask about repairs, modifications and whether there are outstanding defects. Have a competent specialist check the machine and observe its operation in an appropriate test area.

Get a written picture of wear and support costs for the tracks, boom and slew assembly, hydraulic systems, outrigger interlocks, emergency controls and charging system. A current examination report is one piece of evidence alongside maintenance and condition.

Compare actual quotes over the same ownership period. Add delivery, servicing, thorough examinations, insurance, expected repairs, charging or fuel, training and downtime costs. Deduct a realistic resale estimate. Divide by productive days to compare with hire charges on the same basis.

For leasing or contract hire, confirm what is included, permitted hours, end-of-term obligations and the arrangements for breakdowns or replacement cover.