Scissor Lift Weight Capacity

Every scissor lift has a weight capacity that limits how much load the platform can safely carry. Exceeding this limit risks structural failure, tip-over, and serious injury. Understanding how capacity ratings work and calculating your actual load requirements is essential for safe scissor lift operation.

Scissor lift capacities range from around 230 kg (500 lb) for compact units to over 900 kg (2,000 lb) for heavy-duty models. But the number on the capacity plate only tells part of the story. This guide explains everything you need to know about scissor lift weight capacity.

How capacity is rated

Scissor lift capacity ratings represent the maximum weight the platform can support under specified conditions. The rating typically assumes:

The lift is on firm, level ground
The load is evenly distributed across the platform
Wind conditions are within limits (usually under 28 mph or 45 km/h)
The lift is not driving while elevated with full load
Outriggers are deployed if the model has them

Capacity plates are typically located on the platform where operators can see them. They show the maximum platform capacity in both metric and imperial units.

Typical capacity ranges by type

Scissor Lift Type	Typical Capacity Range
Compact/mini electric	230-300 kg (500-660 lb)
Standard electric indoor	230-450 kg (500-1,000 lb)
Wide deck electric	350-550 kg (770-1,200 lb)
Rough terrain (small)	350-500 kg (770-1,100 lb)
Rough terrain (large)	500-900 kg (1,100-2,000 lb)
Industrial/heavy duty	700-1,400 kg (1,500-3,000 lb)

Higher capacity often comes with larger platform size, allowing the extra weight to be spread appropriately.

What counts toward capacity

Everything on the platform counts toward the capacity limit:

Workers: Count each person's actual weight including clothing
Tools: Power tools, hand tools, tool bags
Materials: Parts, supplies, fasteners, cable reels
Equipment: Welding machines, generators, testing equipment
Personal items: Lunch coolers, water jugs, personal gear
Safety equipment: Harnesses, lanyards, fall protection gear

People often underestimate the combined weight of tools and materials. A few power tools, some materials, and two workers can easily total 250+ kg.

Calculating your load requirements

Step 1: Count workers

Determine how many workers will be on the platform at once. Use realistic weights - 90-100 kg (200-220 lb) per worker is a reasonable estimate for most situations when including clothing and personal equipment.

Step 2: List tools and equipment

Make a list of everything workers will bring onto the platform. Weigh items if possible, or use these estimates:

Item	Typical Weight
Cordless drill/driver	2-3 kg (5-7 lb)
Circular saw	3-5 kg (7-11 lb)
Reciprocating saw	3-4 kg (7-9 lb)
Angle grinder	2-3 kg (5-7 lb)
Tool bag (loaded)	10-20 kg (22-44 lb)
Welder (small)	15-25 kg (33-55 lb)
5-gallon bucket	20-25 kg (44-55 lb)
Drywall sheet	25-30 kg (55-66 lb)

Step 3: Add materials

If workers will have materials on the platform, add their weight. Materials often represent the largest variable in the calculation.

Step 4: Add safety margin

Add 10-15% for items you may have forgotten or variations in actual weights.

Step 5: Compare to capacity

Your calculated total should not exceed the platform capacity. If it does, either reduce the load or use a higher-capacity lift.

Example calculation

Item	Weight (kg)
Worker 1	95
Worker 2	90
Tool bags (2)	30
Power tools	15
Materials (cable, fittings)	40
Subtotal	270
10% safety margin	27
Total required capacity	297 kg

This scenario needs a lift with at least 300 kg capacity. A standard 19-foot electric scissor lift at 230 kg would not be appropriate, but most 26-foot models at 350-450 kg would work.

Factors that affect usable capacity

Height

Some scissor lifts have reduced capacity at full height compared to lower heights. Check the load chart for height-specific limits.

Extension deck

When the extension deck (slide-out platform) is deployed, capacity is often reduced. Typical reduction is 90-115 kg (200-250 lb). The capacity plate shows the reduced limit.

Outdoor conditions

Wind loading effectively uses some of the stability margin. In windy conditions, the practical safe capacity may be lower even though the rated capacity has not changed. Most manufacturers specify maximum wind speed for operation, typically 28 mph (45 km/h).

Ground conditions

On slopes or soft ground, stability is reduced. Some lifts have reduced capacity ratings for graded surfaces. Check the operator's manual for slope limits.

Dynamic loading

The capacity rating assumes static loads. Sudden movements, jumping, or dropping heavy items creates dynamic forces that briefly exceed the static weight. Avoid sudden movements on elevated platforms.

Consequences of overloading

Exceeding capacity creates serious risks:

Structural failure: Scissor arms, platform, or base can fail
Tip-over: Centre of gravity shifts outside stable base
Hydraulic failure: Overloaded cylinders may fail or drift
Loss of control: Steering and braking affected
Permanent damage: Equipment may be unsafe even after removing excess weight

Overloading is a leading cause of scissor lift accidents. The consequences can include serious injury, death, equipment damage, and regulatory penalties.

Checking capacity before use

Before every shift:

Locate and read the capacity plate
Estimate total load weight
Verify load will not exceed capacity
Plan what goes on the platform before elevating
Remove unnecessary items to reduce load

If capacity is questionable, use a scale to weigh tools and materials before loading. It takes minutes and prevents serious problems.

Load distribution

Capacity ratings assume even load distribution. Concentrate weight in one corner or at the edge and stability suffers even within the weight limit.

Centre heavy items on the platform
Spread workers across the platform when possible
Don't stack materials in one corner
Keep tools organised and distributed

Capacity by popular models

Model Example	Platform Height	Capacity
Genie GS-1930	5.8 m (19 ft)	227 kg (500 lb)
JLG 2630ES	8.0 m (26 ft)	450 kg (1,000 lb)
Skyjack SJ6832RT	9.8 m (32 ft)	454 kg (1,000 lb)
Genie GS-4047	12.2 m (40 ft)	350 kg (770 lb)
JLG 4394RT	13.3 m (43 ft)	680 kg (1,500 lb)

Always verify capacity from the actual equipment plate, not general specifications.