Blog | Tracked Lifts

Arborist Buyer’s Guide: Key Considerations When Buying Aerial Lifts

Written by Tracked Lifts | September 26, 2024 at 7:20 PM

For arborists, having the right equipment is crucial for safe and efficient tree care operations. One of the most significant investments an arborist can make is in an aerial lift. These specialized machines provide the necessary height and stability to safely work on trees of various sizes. At Tracked Lifts, LLC, the exclusive distributor of Platform Basket and OMME in the United States, we cater specifically to the needs of arborists with our purpose-built lifts. In this guide, we share best practices for selecting an aerial lift, highlighting the unique features of Platform Basket and OMME models that will elevate your tree care work.

The Importance of Arborist Purpose-Built Aerial Lifts

When you're looking for an aerial lift, it’s vital to choose a model designed with arborist needs in mind. Unlike generic lifts, Platform Basket and OMME aerial lifts are crafted by professionals who understand the specific challenges faced in tree care. These purpose-built lifts offer enhanced functionality and safety, making them the best choice for professionals in the arborist industry.

Key Considerations for Arborists

Start your search by evaluating your specific arborist requirements. Consider key factors such as:

  • The maximum height you work at
  • The reach necessary for accessing tree branches
  • The types of terrain where you’ll be operating

A purpose-built aerial lift should meet these demands, ensuring you can perform tree trimming, pruning, and removal tasks effectively and safely.

Stability and Safety 

Safety is non-negotiable in arboriculture. Look for lifts equipped with superior stability features like:

  • Wide base and outriggers
  • Advanced stabilization technology

Platform Basket and OMME models excel in these areas, providing advanced stabilization technology that ensures solid footing on uneven surfaces. A well-designed lift will significantly reduce the risk of accidents, enabling you to work confidently at various working heights.

Well Armored Aerial Lifts 

A key advantage of Platform Basket and OMME aerial lifts is their robust construction. These lifts protect vital components with heavy gauge steel, offering peace of mind that your equipment can withstand tough jobs in heavy foliage:

  • Hydraulic Cylinder and Stabilizer Arms: These critical elements are safeguarded against wear and tear, ensuring reliability in demanding conditions.
  • Gas Tank: Enclosed in heavy-duty steel, the gas tank is protected from damage and leaks, enhancing safety during operation.
  • Control Box: The control box’s durable steel casing safeguards essential electronics from environmental hazards, prolonging its lifespan.

  • Hydraulic Lines and Electrical Components: Protected within the undercarriage, these components are shielded from impacts and abrasions, ensuring consistent performance.

This level of protection enhances the longevity and safety of your aerial lift, making it a smart investment for your business.

Platform Size and Weight Capacity

When choosing an aerial lift, consider the platform size and weight capacity. An adequate platform is essential for allowing multiple workers to operate safely and efficiently. Platform Basket and OMME models often come with spacious platforms that enhance teamwork during tree care operations, allowing for improved productivity on the job site.

Maneuverability for Tight Spaces

Maneuverability is another critical factor to consider. The ability to navigate tight spaces and uneven terrain is essential for arborists. Platform Basket and OMME lifts are engineered for superior maneuverability, making them ideal for urban areas and densely wooded locations. With an excellent turning radius and compact design, you can easily access hard-to-reach branches. Our lifts can even fit through a standard doorframe, making backyard jobs easily accessible.

Platform Basket: Urban & Suburban Use

Platform Basket lifts are engineered for superior maneuverability, which makes them particularly well-suited for urban and suburban areas. These lifts feature an excellent turning radius and a compact design, allowing arborists to navigate narrow streets, tight driveway spaces, and standard 36” wide fence gates with ease. The lightweight nature of Platform Basket models enables them to operate on softer ground without causing damage, making them perfect for residential landscaping without disrupting the surrounding environment. Additionally, their enhanced outreach capabilities allow for easy access to overgrown branches and hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that your tree care tasks can be completed with precision and efficiency.

OMME: Densely Wooded Areas

OMME aerial lifts are specifically designed to handle the challenges presented in densely wooded locations. Their robust construction and compact design enable them to maneuver through narrow forested paths and uneven terrain with ease. OMME models often feature specialized tracks or wheels that provide excellent traction on varied surfaces, ensuring stability and control while working on steep inclines or rugged ground. The lifts' ability to navigate closely around trees allows arborists to access branches without disturbing the surrounding foliage, making OMME an ideal choice for intricate tree care jobs in thick wooded areas.  

Precision with Hydraulic Features

Precision is paramount when working around trees, especially when trimming branches or performing delicate removals. Look for an aerial lift equipped with advanced hydraulic features that facilitate smooth boom operation. Platform Basket and OMME models offer state-of-the-art hydraulic systems, allowing for easy adjustments to height and outreach, giving you the control needed for intricate tasks.

Lifts Designed by Arborists, for Arborists

Arborists have highly specialized requirements that necessitate the use of equipment specifically designed for the industry. It is essential to ensure that the vendor is not merely retrofitting a generic lift with attachments or modifications. Platform Basket and OMME are renowned for providing purpose-built lifts tailored explicitly for arborist applications. 
Customization options are welcome and may include features such as non-marking tracks, two-person baskets, custom paint colors, and outrigger pads. However, knowledgeable and safety-conscious arborists should be wary of any additional "arborist" upgrades that might indicate compromises in quality, stability, or lift uptime. Recognizing these red flags is crucial for making informed decisions about the equipment necessary for reliable and effective tree care operations.

Maintenance and Reliability

Investing in an aerial lift that requires minimal maintenance is a priority for busy arborists. Platform Basket and OMME lifts are designed for durability, with heavy gauge steel offering added protection against falling branches and tree trunks not to mention the general wear and tear from usage and sawdust. Choosing a reliable, overbuilt lift reduces the likelihood of downtime and lets you focus on providing exceptional tree care services.

Transportability and Convenience

Lastly, consider how easy it is to transport your aerial lift between job sites. A lightweight and compact model can save you time and effort in getting to your next job. Platform Basket and OMME lifts are designed for hassle-free transport, allowing arborists to maximize their time on-site and efficiently manage their work schedules.

Trust Tracked Lifts, LLC 

When you’re ready to invest in a purpose-built aerial lift, Tracked Lifts, LLC is your trusted source for quality equipment and exceptional service. As the exclusive distributor for Platform Basket and OMME in the United States, we are committed to helping arborists find the perfect lift to meet their specific needs. Our knowledgeable team is here to assist you throughout the purchasing process, ensuring you choose an aerial lift with unique features tailored specifically for tree care.

Get Started Today!

Contact Tracked Lifts, LLC to explore our range of Platform Basket and OMME aerial lifts designed for the arborist industry. Let us help you find the right equipment that will take your tree care services to new heights. Don't settle for anything less than the best—invest in a purpose-built aerial lift today!