Find the Best Straight Boom Lifts Near You

A straight boom lift, also known as a telescopic boom lift, is designed to provide both vertical and horizontal reach for tasks at height. It features a straight arm that extends outward, making it ideal for accessing high, hard-to-reach areas.

This type of lift is commonly used in construction, maintenance, and industrial applications where precise positioning is required. Its ability to reach over obstacles and extend to significant heights makes it a versatile and valuable tool on the job site.

The average capacity of a straight mast boom lift typically ranges from 230 kg to 450 kg. This capacity allows for the safe lifting of both workers and equipment to elevated work areas. The exact capacity can vary depending on the model and manufacturer, but it generally supports at least two workers and their tools. Ensuring you select a boom lift with the appropriate capacity for your needs is crucial for safe and efficient operations.

The choice between a straight boom lift and an articulating boom lift depends on the specific requirements of your project. Straight boom lifts are advantageous for their ability to reach higher elevations and extend further horizontally, making them ideal for jobs that require access to high, hard-to-reach areas. On the other hand, articulating boom lifts offer greater flexibility and manoeuvrability around obstacles, making them suitable for more complex work environments. Evaluating the nature of your work site and the tasks at hand will help determine which type of boom lift is better suited to your needs.

The key difference is in the boom arm design and movement. A straight boom lift (also called a telescopic boom lift) has a single, extendable arm that reaches higher and farther in a straight line, making it perfect for open spaces. A knuckle boom lift (or articulating boom lift) has multiple jointed sections that can bend, allowing it to reach over, under, or around obstacles—ideal for confined or complex job sites.

Tip: Choose a straight boom when you need maximum height and outreach in open areas, and a knuckle boom when your worksite has obstructions or limited access.

There are several types of boom lifts, each designed for specific applications:

1. Straight Boom Lifts (Telescopic Boom Lifts): Provide extended horizontal and vertical reach with a single straight arm.
2. Articulating Boom Lifts (Knuckle Boom Lifts): Feature multiple sections with pivot points for manoeuvrability around obstacles.
3. Trailer-Mounted Boom Lifts: Portable boom lifts that can be towed to different job sites, offering versatility and ease of transport.
4. Spider Lifts: Compact and lightweight lifts designed for use in tight spaces and on uneven terrain, often with adjustable legs for stability.
5. Vertical Mast Lifts: Compact lifts that provide vertical elevation, ideal for indoor maintenance and light-duty tasks.

Understanding the unique features and capabilities of each type can help you choose the right boom lift for your project needs.

A straight boom lift — also known as a telescopic boom lift — is an elevated work platform with a long, extendable arm that moves in a straight line rather than bending like an articulating boom. It’s built for maximum horizontal and vertical reach, making it ideal for high, open-area work such as construction, bridge maintenance, and large-scale installations.

Key Features and Functions:

• Straight telescopic arm: Extends and retracts hydraulically for direct reach to elevated areas.
• High reach capability: Some models can reach heights of 40–125 feet (12–38 metres) or more.
• Excellent horizontal outreach: Ideal for accessing areas that are far from the lift’s base.
• Rough-terrain options: Many models feature 4WD and robust tyres for outdoor and uneven ground.
• Power types: Available in diesel, hybrid, or electric models for indoor or outdoor use.

Best For:

• Construction and steel erection
• Bridge and tower work
• High façade painting or maintenance
• Installing signage or lighting in open spaces

When to Choose a Straight Boom Lift: Use it when you need maximum height and reach in open environments with minimal obstacles — whereas a knuckle (articulating) boom is better for navigating around structures or confined spaces.

Straight boom lift hire in Australia generally ranges from $192 to over $600 per day, depending on the lift’s height and capacity. Weekly hire rates usually start around $895 and can exceed $1,790, offering better value for longer projects. Smaller models (around 45 ft) are more affordable, while larger units (65–80 ft or higher) command higher rates.

Straight Boom Lift Hire Rates in Australia

Factors Affecting Hire Costs

Getting an Accurate Quote

Tip: For large or long-term projects, request a weekly or monthly rate — it’s often significantly cheaper than multiple daily hires.

The maximum reach of straight (telescopic) booms varies by size and model:

Maximum Reach of Straight (Telescopic) Booms

Factors Affecting Reach

Tip: Always check the specific lift’s specifications to ensure it meets your project’s height and reach requirements.

Yes, straight (telescopic) booms can be used indoors, but only if there’s enough overhead clearance and space to maneuver. They’re less common indoors than articulating (knuckle) booms, which handle tight, obstacle-filled areas more easily.

Key points for indoor use:

• Space requirements: The straight arm can’t bend around obstacles, so plenty of room is needed for both vertical and horizontal reach.
• Power source: Electric or hybrid models are preferred to avoid diesel fumes and reduce noise.
• Floor protection: Non-marking tires help prevent damage to polished or sensitive surfaces.
• Maneuverability: Limited in tight spaces; the machine often needs to be repositioned to move the platform horizontally.
• Best applications: Large open indoor areas like warehouses or high-ceiling facilities where the straight boom’s long reach is required. For tight or congested spaces, an articulating boom is usually more practical.