Thinking about buying a used towable boom lift? These compact, versatile machines make it easy to access hard-to-reach areas without the cost of a new unit. But buying used requires extra care — you want to get a reliable machine that’s safe, job-ready, and priced right.

This guide walks you through what to look for, how much you can expect to pay, and how to find the best used towable boom lift for your project.

Towable boom lifts, also called trailer lifts or tow-behind lifts, are compact, transportable aerial work platforms built for mobility, flexibility, and efficiency. Unlike self-propelled lifts, they can be towed by standard vehicles, making them ideal for contractors, service providers, and maintenance teams that move frequently between job sites.

These lifts combine compact transport with substantial reach, allowing teams to access elevated areas safely and efficiently — without requiring heavy-duty vehicles or permanent storage.

Key Applications for Towable Boom Lifts

Towable boom lifts are widely used in industries where height access and portability are critical:

• Construction & Renovation: Exterior repairs, siding, windows, and façade work
• Electrical & Utility Work: Servicing power lines, streetlights, and communications infrastructure
• Signage & Facility Maintenance: Installing or servicing signs, lighting, and building exteriors
• Landscaping & Tree Care: Pruning, trimming, and maintaining trees or hedges
• Industrial & Event Setup: Accessing elevated storage racks, stages, or temporary structures

Advantages of Towable Boom Lifts

Experienced operators value towable lifts for their combination of performance, portability, and cost-effectiveness:

• Portable & Towable: Easy transport with standard pickups or vans, no special permits needed
• Compact Footprint: Maneuverable in tight or restricted jobsite spaces
• Cost-Effective: Lower upfront and operating costs compared to self-propelled lifts, especially when buying used
• Quick Deployment: Set up and ready to operate in minutes

Beyond choosing the right size lift for your project, there are several other factors to keep in mind:

• Year, hours, and condition: Consider the lift’s year, total hours, and overall condition. Inspection reports from the seller can help confirm this information.
• Maintenance and inspection history: If you’re buying from a rental yard or equipment dealer, ask to see inspection reports. These show regular maintenance, past repairs, and any issues the lift has had.
• Helpful features: Look for lifts with self-leveling and self-propelled capabilities, which make moving the lift on the jobsite easier.

Paying attention to these factors can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure the lift performs reliably on the job.

Note: It’s entirely acceptable to ask for detailed photos of all 4 tires, control panel, meter, motor, and of any damage to the lift you’re thinking about buying. Don’t forget to compare the meter readings in the photo to the meter reading advertised. Here are some examples of photos you should expect to receive:

The size of a towable boom lift is typically described by its maximum platform height or working height. Here’s a general guide:

• 30–35 Feet: Ideal for smaller tasks, such as residential work or light commercial projects.
• 40–50 Feet: A versatile range for commercial applications, including building maintenance, tree trimming, and general construction.
• 50–70 Feet: Suited for more demanding jobs that require extended reach, like taller building maintenance or advanced construction projects.

While working height indicates how high the platform can extend, horizontal reach can vary by model. Some lifts feature a jib or articulating arm for added flexibility, making it easier to reach tricky spots.

When evaluating a lift, also consider:

• Lift capacity – the weight it can safely handle
• Stabilization options – outriggers or leveling features
• Additional features – self-propelled movement, self-leveling, or other job-specific capabilities

Choosing the right size and features ensures the lift can safely and efficiently handle the tasks you need it for.

The cost of used towable boom lifts depends on several factors, including size, age, condition, brand, model, and any additional features. Here’s a general guide based on platform height:

Small Lifts (30–35 feet): Typically range from $18,000 to $45,000.

Medium Lifts (40–50 feet): Usually fall between $17,500 and $60,000, depending on condition and age.

Large Lifts (50–70 feet): Generally cost between $29,500 and $69,900 or more, depending on model and features.

Towable boom lifts are designed to be transported easily using a variety of vehicles. However, the type of vehicle you should use largely depends on the size and weight of the boom lift. Here are some general guidelines:

Small to Medium Lifts (up to 50 feet):

• Most can be towed by standard full-sized pickups or SUVs with a towing package.
• Ensure the vehicle’s towing capacity exceeds the combined weight of the boom lift.
• The 34′ JLG T350 weighs 3,400lb, for reference.

Larger Lifts (50-70 feet and up):

• Heavy-duty pickup trucks or larger commercial vehicles might be required.
• These lifts are heavier and may require a vehicle with a greater towing capacity.
• The 56′ JLG T500J weighs 4,800lb.

General Considerations:

• Ensure you have the right hitch type and size. A common hitch for many towable boom lifts is a ball hitch, but some might require a pintle hitch, especially for heavier models.
• Check the vehicle’s brakes. Towable boom lifts can be heavy, and it’s crucial that your vehicle has adequate braking power.
• Use safety chains and ensure all lights and indicators on the trailer are functioning correctly.

Before transporting any towable boom lift, always refer to the lift’s manual and the towing vehicle’s specifications. Ensuring you match the weight and requirements will ensure safety on the road.

Here are some common pickup truck models and their towing capacity:

*Source: https://www.motorbiscuit.com/only-2-half-ton-pickup-trucks-can-tow-more-than-13000-pounds/