Which Canberra companies offer scissor lift hire that cuts through the competition? Photo: Nine Lutsk.
Whether you’re tackling a large-scale construction project, managing a warehouse, or trimming tall hedges at a commercial site, you’ll know how essential reliable access equipment can be. When ladders don’t cut it and safety is a priority, you’ll need a scissor lift to get the job done right.
A scissor lift is a type of elevated work platform that can raise you straight up for safe, stable access to hard-to-reach places.
Scissor lift hire companies in Canberra often provide both diesel and electric models, depending on whether you’re working indoors or outside, and offer short and long-term hire options.
In this article, we’ll outline the key qualities to consider when choosing a scissor lift hire provider, and share where to find the best Canberra has to offer.
What makes a great scissor lift hire company?
Choosing the right scissor lift hire company can mean the difference between a smooth job and one with costly delays. It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing your provider:
Equipment range. A good hire company will offer a wide selection of scissor lifts, including rough terrain models for outdoor use, narrow access machines for tight indoor spaces, and high-reach lifts for major commercial jobs. Having access to the right machine for your site means safer, more efficient work.
Safe, reliable machines. Scissor lifts need to be serviced regularly to meet safety standards. A quality hire company will carry out regular inspections, servicing, and logbook updates, ensuring you get a machine that’s ready to go and safe to operate from day one.
Local expertise. Canberra’s unique mix of government buildings, commercial projects and tight suburban sites means it helps to deal with a hire company that knows the local landscape. They’ll be better equipped to recommend the right gear for your conditions and ensure delivery and pick-up go smoothly.
Flexible hire terms. Whether you need a scissor lift for a few days, a week, or several months, the best scissor lift hire companies in Canberra will offer terms that match your project timeline. That includes easy extensions if your job runs over or early returns if things wrap up ahead of schedule.
Friendly, responsive service. Things don’t always go to plan on site, so it helps to have a local team that answers the phone, offers quick advice, and can organise emergency repairs or swap-outs if needed. A reliable support crew helps you keep working without delay.
The best scissor lift hire in Canberra
Region Canberra's editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Asset Construction Hire
Asset Construction Hire is Canberra builders' go-to provider for all kinds of tools, equipment, machinery and vehicles.
This locally owned business has been around since 2010. The team maintains a large, modern and diverse fleet - no matter the job requirements, they have a scissor lift that will meet and exceed expectations.
ACH offers electric, diesel and hybrid scissor lifts able to handle almost any environment. Their range includes models with a reach up to 30 metres.
Other products available for hire include trucks, vans, forklifts, generators, compressors, hand tools, power tools and more.
Staff are known for their can-do attitude and tailored approach to service. They even offer free site inspections to ensure customers hire the right gear for their project and environment.
"This firm is on the next level, when it comes to matching the right equipment for the task, customer service, and after-hours support," Guy says in an online review.
Coates Fyshwick
Backed by the largest fleet of access equipment in the country, Coates Fyshwick can arrange a scissor lift to suit any kind of job.
Coates stocks diesel and electric scissor lift models, including those suitable for rough terrain, with reaches ranging from 5.5 to 12.2 metres. The team can also provide vertical lifts, knuckle, spider, and trailer-mounted boom lifts, and scissor lift trailers for easy transport.
"Always a good experience, staff are friendly and helpful," John said on Google.
Onecall Equipment Hire
Proudly locally owned and operated, Onecall Equipment Hire stocks a range of high-quality scissor lifts for lease, including diesel and electric models.
Onecall Equipment Hire is conveniently located in Mitchell alongside Onecall Steel and Form. Together, the experienced team also offers engineering and estimating services, tilt tray towing, and pickup and delivery across Canberra.
Other machinery for hire includes scissor lift trailers, telescopic boom lifts, and articulating boom lifts.
Kennards Hire Phillip
Backed by the largest family-owned business of its kind in the country, Kennards Hire in Phillip leases a huge range of access equipment, including diesel, electric, and hybrid scissor lifts to suit all kinds of terrain.
Kennards Phillip staff are known for their friendly and experienced approach. Other access equipment available for hire includes boom lifts, man lifts, mobile hydraulic platforms, and more.
"Outstanding service from the Phillip branch of Kennards," James says in a Google review.
Masterlift Materials Handling
Masterlift Materials Handling has a fantastic reputation among builders, developers and DIYers across the Canberra and East Coast regions for their experienced approach to equipment hire.
Masterlift has a range of elevated work platforms available for hire, including top-quality scissor lifts. If they don't have the equipment clients need on hand, the team can track it down in 48 hours.
"Excellent, speedy and friendly service. Provided a forklift and a driver on short notice," Jennifer said on Google.
If you’re looking for more information on tool and equipment hire in Canberra, check out our articles on the best truck hire, best excavation hire, and best skip bin hire and rubbish removal companies our city has to offer.
Your experience with scissor lift hire companies in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the scissor lift hire companies listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does scissor lift hire cost in Canberra?
Scissor lift hire in Canberra usually starts at around $100 to $150 per day for smaller models, with prices increasing for larger or rough terrain units. Costs can vary depending on lift height, whether you need delivery, and how long you’re hiring for. Long-term rentals often work out cheaper per day than short-term hires.
What size scissor lift should I hire?
The right size for your hired scissor lift depends on the height you need to reach and the environment it will be used in. Scissor lift hire companies in Canberra typically offer a range of platform heights, from small electric models for indoor use to large diesel lifts for outdoor jobs. It’s a good idea to speak with a hire provider who can recommend the right unit based on your site access, ground surface, and task.
What’s the difference between electric and diesel scissor lifts?
Electric scissor lifts are relatively quiet and don't produce emissions, making them ideal for indoor or enclosed spaces. Diesel scissor lifts are more powerful and better suited to outdoor worksites with rough terrain. When speaking to a hire company, make sure to specify your work environment so they can supply the most appropriate machine.
Are scissor lifts safe to use?
When used correctly and maintained to Australian standards, scissor lifts are a safe and efficient option for elevated work. Hire companies must regularly inspect and service their machines to ensure safety and compliance. Operators should be trained in safe use and follow any site-specific safety protocols, especially when working at height or in busy construction zones.
Do I need a licence to use a scissor lift in the ACT?
You don’t need a high-risk work licence to operate most scissor lifts under 11 metres. However, Safe Work Australia recommends completing a Yellow Card training course for elevated work platforms to ensure you understand how to operate the machine safely.
