Wondering whether you should hire the latest access platform or buy a MEWP for your own fleet? Powered access platforms are efficient, safe, and can save time for work-at-height jobs. Depending on the size of your job, frequency of use, and your business needs, there are benefits to buying a scissor lift or choosing to rent a cherry picker on a job-to-job basis.
In order to make a buy or hire decision that is right for you, you will need to consider the advantages of each and the requirements of your projects. In this blog, Horizon Platforms shares the advantages of hiring and buying a MEWP.
Why Might You Need to Buy An Access Platform
If you know that you will require the same access platform for multiple different projects then purchasing an access platform could be the option for you. Also, when working in one location, such as your own premises, purchasing might be right for your business. In some cases, it is more feasible to hire a cherry picker or scissor lift, as you may only require a platform for a singular project. However, if you require the same MEWP for multiple tasks, projects and an extended period of time, buying an access platform could be the best option for you.
What are the benefits of buying an access platform?
Whether you’re looking for a specific MEWP to complete a job or the newest access platform for your fleet, you may be wondering if it’s more cost-effective and convenient to hire or buy equipment. There are many benefits to buying new and used access platforms and here at Horizon Platforms, we make it easy for you to find a MEWP fit for your needs.
When it comes to purchasing used platforms, the main advantage is the cost as it can generally work out cheaper to buy used and refurbished cherry pickers or scissor lifts. When buying a used platform from Horizon Platforms we will ensure you get the support you need. From full pre-inspections to offering service and maintenance packages so your used MEWP is safe and efficient for years to come.
Are you looking to purchase the latest access platform for your fleet? We offer the latest models and can ensure they are fully customised to your brand and needs before they head to your site. Purchasing a brand new MEWP may be the option for your business if you want the latest and greatest equipment. With the ability to paint it in your brand colours, customise it to the needs of your site’s environments and have it on-site whenever you need it – purchasing a MEWP has a variety of advantages.
The Benefits of Hiring an Access Platform
From flexible hire lengths and same-day delivery, hiring a powered access platform has been a popular option for some time and has many benefits you will want to consider. Benefits of hiring a powered access platform include; lower upfront costs, a reliable solution to working at height and peace of mind.
Lower upfront costs
If purchasing a MEWP isn’t in your budget, then hiring is a cost-effective solution for your work-at-height needs. Powered access platforms have many associated costs, including compliance with health and safety legislation (e.g. LOLER and PUWER), ongoing repairs and a thorough maintenance examination every six months. Therefore, ensuring you choose the right hire partner and options can help free up capital and ensure you get the best machine for the job.
Finance options
With Horizon Platforms, there are multiple finance options for both purchase and long-term hire of equipment. When you need a MEWP for a longer period of time, contract hire offers many benefits:
The benefits of contract hire with Horizon Platforms include,
- Maintenance costs are included
- Reduced capital outlay
- Regular inspection of your MEWPs
- A brand new platform from our extensive fleet
- Flexible hire terms available
We will also be on hand to guide you to the best finance solution for your business and access platform hire needs, so you have peace of mind that the MEWP arriving at the site will enable you to efficiently get the job done.
Peace of mind
When purchasing a MEWP, you will be responsible for regular inspection services and maintenance to ensure your access platform is always safe and meets the legal requirements. However, when you hire an access platform from Horizon Platforms, you will get full peace of mind that all checks and services are complete to ensure equipment is fully operational, safe and compliant. Plus we offer LOLER inspections every six months with contract hire, giving you peace of mind when hiring a MEWP.
As access platform specialists, we also understand that fast, on-time delivery is important and therefore offer quick turnaround times to keep your projects moving forward. With a 98% on-time delivery rate, there’s no need to wait around – simply choose your equipment and we’ll drop it off at your site on the very same day.
Furthermore, we’re an official IPAF Rental+ Gold supplier, so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible service and expertise.
A reliable solution
Hiring a MEWP provides a reliable solution to long and short-term projects that require work to be carried out at a height. The right work-at-height equipment can be the difference between a successful project and a failure, so it’s important to partner with a hire company you can rely on, such as Horizon Platforms.
We ensure our three-step inspection process is carried out on every access platform before it heads to the site. Involving a pre-use inspection, familiarisation and a good-to-go check on arrival, plus a post-collection survey, you can be certain that your equipment is in perfect condition and ready to use as soon as it arrives on site.
A fast hire process from start to finish
In addition to quick delivery, you can also benefit from Horizon Platforms’ fast account creation process. You can open a HireHub account and fill out a credit application in less than two minutes. HireHub ensures you get a decision in just under an hour so there’s no waiting around. Open your account and get the machines you need, exactly when you need them.
Access Platform FAQs
What is an Access Platform?
An access platform, also known as a mobile elevated work platform (MEWP), is a working-from-height solution for contractors that need to safely and securely work from a height. MEWPs are more commonly referred to by a whole host of names, including cherry pickers, scissor lifts, push-around platforms, boom lifts, personnel lifts and more. Access platforms come in a variety of models, sizes and specifications making them versatile across a range of environments and industries.
When is an Access Platform Required?
Powered access platforms can be used within a range of industries and are there for people working at a height – whether that’s cleaning windows, installing electricals or putting up pipework. MEWPs are a safer alternative to your everyday ladder and come with a range of features so you can find a suitable platform for your project. There are many different uses of access platforms, but the most common industries are:
- Construction
- Industrial
- Retail
- Institutions
- Government
From installing windows, railway work and fire fighting to restoring historic buildings, installing CCTV, and carrying out shop refits, MEWPs are required for various tasks and projects.
We’d love to hear about the benefits you’ve experienced as a result of hiring our powered access equipment. Why not let us know on Facebook or LinkedIn?