2024 Guide to Towable Boom Lifts

This blog post was last updated August 2024.

Towable boom lifts are popular in part because they are the simplest boom lifts to move.

Also called trailer-mounted, cherry pickers, or pull-behind boom lifts, these can be towed behind a pickup truck, work van or SUV — any vehicle with a Class 2 or Class 3 trailer hitch can work. This makes towable lifts perfect for those that do not have a flatbed trailer to haul it around.

Controls for pull behind lifts are typically simple and intuitive. And, these lifts will typically help you raise up to 500 pounds to your working height.

In addition to being easy to move and use, these lifts are small enough to fit onto a variety of job sites.

Towable boom lifts can reach up and over at the same time when extended and are studier than using ladders. Platform height for towables range from 34 feet to 62 feet. Roofers and tree trimming services often add a towable boom lift to their equipment to help take on more jobs, safer. Simple to set up, hydraulic outriggers provide stability that ladders cannot.

Their light weight can help you avoid damaging the surface you are working on — like on a lawn or driveway.

Towable boom lift uses

  • Roofing
  • Tree trimming
  • Picking fruit (why they are also called cherry pickers)
  • Power, cable and telephone line work
  • Mounting holiday decorations
  • Window cleaning

Who makes towable boom lifts?

In addition to the larger aerial lift manufacturers, Genie and JLG, here is a list of popular towable boom lift makes and models.

As with other mobile elevated work platforms, the model number often contains the working height of the machine, like the JLG T350, which has a working height just beneath 35 feet.

How High Will a Towable Boom Lift Reach?

Towable Boom Lifts are easy to tow and easy to use — but how high can a towable boom lift reach? With platform heights from 34 feet to 62 feet, click here for an illustration of how high different towables could work.

Best Towable Boom Lifts for Exceptional Performance and Versatility

  1. Genie: A leading brand in the industry, Genie offers an impressive range of 18 towable boom lift models. Known for their reliability and innovative features, these lifts cater to various height and outreach requirements.
  2. JLG: As a prominent manufacturer of aerial lifts, JLG’s towable boom lifts are designed for exceptional performance and easy maneuverability. Their robust lineup includes options for indoor and outdoor applications.
  3. NiftyLift: NiftyLift is renowned for their compact and lightweight towable boom lifts. With advanced technology and fuel-efficient designs, they’re an eco-friendly choice for numerous industries.
  4. Haulotte: Haulotte’s towable boom lifts boast of excellent build quality and user-friendly controls. Their versatile range is suitable for diverse work environments, ensuring maximum productivity.
  5. Skyjack: Skyjack’s towable boom lifts are recognized for their simplicity and durability. With easy-to-use controls and robust construction, these lifts provide reliable operation across various applications.
  6. Snorkel: Snorkel offers a wide selection of towable boom lifts, designed for versatility and performance. Their innovative features ensure safe and efficient operation in challenging conditions.
  7. MEC: MEC’s towable boom lifts stand out for their exceptional stability and extended reach capabilities. With a focus on safety and ease of use, these lifts are ideal for both novice and experienced operators.

In summary, the top towable boom lift brands are Genie, JLG, NiftyLift, Haulotte, Skyjack, Snorkel, and MEC. Each brand offers unique features and benefits, catering to various industries and applications. Choose the right towable boom lift based on your specific needs and preferences to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

Towable lifts for sale

Click here to see used towable boom lifts for sale.

Click here to see Used Boom Lift For Sale Near Me

Towable Boom Lift Reviews

In a discussion on Contractor Talk, a popular forum among professionals in the construction industry, a user sought advice on the best towable boom lift brands. The responses were telling, with one contractor sharing firsthand experience with both Genie and JLG models. Their verdict was clear: “I’ve had a Genie and JLG. JLG is far superior in terms of ease of use and durability.” This sentiment highlights the trust and reliability that seasoned professionals place in JLG, underscoring its reputation for creating equipment that not only performs well on the job site but also stands the test of time.

Below is a video review of the JLG T350: