Bucket trucks are vital heavy equipment for a range of industries. From tree cutting arborists, exterior painters to high-rise constructions and electric utility companies- the trucks make it easier and safer to complete certain works at great heights.
Finding the right work-ready trucks for your company requires a careful analysis of your needs, expectations, and legal requirements. As a vehicle-mounted aerial platform, you must ensure the equipment complies with set OSHA and ANSI standards. Here are four factors to consider before buying or renting the equipment.
1. Understand Your Needs
The first step would be to determine the kind of jobs you intend to use the bucket truck for. The type of work performed may have an impact on the accessories for the heavy equipment. Customization of the truck may allow you to have list-features on the truck that align with the nature of the job at hand.
2. New Vs. Used
The purchase of heavy equipment can be prohibitively expensive. You may need to look into your budget allocation and determine whether you need a new or used truck. When purchasing old trucks, it is essential to keep several factors in mind.
First, you need to consider the vehicle’s warranty. If the warranty period is close to expiry, you may request the vendor for an extended warranty policy. Check the condition of the truck and its mileage. The dealer should have all records for hydraulic repair services and other maintenance schedules. You may need to evaluate the truck and the lift separately to ensure they are in good condition.
3. Type
There are a variety of bucket trucks available for renting, leasing, or purchase, including:
- Articulated: Designed with parts on joints that fold easily. The truck provides extra maneuverability, making it suitable for tight spaces. The vehicle may be either an over-center or a non-over-center model.
- Telescopic: The lift is more rigid and moves upwards and outwards. The truck compensates for its lack of maneuverability by being stable, making it suitable for jobs at elevated heights.
- Articulated-Telescopic: This truck incorporates both components, with some parts that fold and others that move outwards.
Look at the job you intend to do with the truck and select the right model.
4. Specifications
You will need to look deeper into the features of the bucket trucks. First, you need to determine its weight capacity. Most trucks have a maximum load weight of approximately 400- 2000 lbs. The chassis may affect the total load weight for the front and back axles.
You also need to select the right transmission for the lift equipment. Manual units provide better control while operating the gears, while automatic models offer a smoother experience during the lift. You may also need to determine the fuel type. Most bucket trucks run on diesel for both vehicle and aerial functions. However, some modern truck fleet services include electric motors that run the lift operations.
Finally, you may need to look into the maximum platform height. You can choose a work truck rental with a maximum height of 45, 65, or 125 feet depending on your job demands.
Bucket trucks are essential in a variety of industries. If you are interested in leasing or buying bucket trucks, contact Utility Equipment Service. UES is a leading supplier of specialized trucks and heavy-duty equipment in Nashville and beyond.
