Understanding how much a cherry picker costs can be important whether you’re planning a construction project, doing maintenance on a building, trimming tall trees, or considering buying one for business use. A cherry picker, often referred to as an aerial work platform or boom lift, is heavy equipment designed to safely lift workers and tools to high places. Prices vary widely based on whether you rent or buy, the type of machine you need, its height and reach, and additional costs like delivery, operators, insurance, and maintenance. This topic explores the typical costs involved so you can plan your budget effectively and make smart choices.
Rental Costs for a Cherry Picker
Renting a cherry picker is a common choice for shortterm projects or occasional jobs because purchasing one outright can be expensive and impractical for many people or small companies. Rental prices depend on the type of cherry picker, the working height, the region or country you’re in, and how long you need it.
Daily, Weekly, and Hourly Rental Rates
Rental costs can vary quite widely
- Smaller lifts suitable for indoor or lowheight jobs can cost around $120 to $175 per day, or about $300 to $450 per week.
- Standard boom lifts with articulating arms cost roughly $300 to $800 per day and $800 to $2,500 per week, depending on height and options.
- Taller or heavy duty models, including truckmounted cherry pickers, can be significantly more, with daily rental prices ranging up to $1,500 or more for very large units.
- Hourly rates may be available for short jobs, often between $20 and $60 per hour depending on the model.
These rental rates typically cover the equipment only. Many suppliers charge extra for delivery and collection, fuel or power, and sometimes require a minimum rental period for shortterm hires.
Factors That Influence Rental Prices
Several key elements affect how much you’ll pay to rent a cherry picker
- The working height and reach you need – taller cherry pickers cost more to rent.
- The lift type – articulating booms and truckmounted units are usually more expensive than simpler models.
- The length of the rental period – weekly or monthly rentals often offer a lower daily rate than singleday rentals.
- Whether an operator is included – hiring a certified operator can add to the rental cost.
- Addons such as safety gear or insurance coverage may increase the total price.
Cost to Buy a Cherry Picker
Purchasing a cherry picker is a major investment, but it can be more economical in the long term if you plan to use the equipment regularly or for an ongoing business. The price depends heavily on the machine’s size, brand, power source, and features.
Typical Purchase Prices
Cherry pickers and similar boom lifts can range significantly in price
- Smaller, trailermounted cherry pickers or personal lifts can start around $10,000 to $20,000 for basic new models.
- Midrange articulated boom lifts, suitable for more frequent or varied use, typically cost between $40,000 and $80,000.
- Large roughterrain telescopic lifts and specialized spider lifts – which offer exceptional height and stability – can easily exceed $100,000.
Used cherry pickers offer a more budgetfriendly option, often costing 3070% less than a new model depending on age, condition, and hours of use. Used boom lifts can be a good investment for established contractors or frequent users, but it’s important to inspect service records and overall condition before purchase.
Features That Impact Purchase Price
Several features influence the purchase price of a cherry picker
- Maximum lift height and outreach capability.
- Power source – electric units are usually cheaper than diesel but may have limited battery life.
- Platform capacity – higher weight limits can raise cost.
- Allwheel drive or rough terrain capability for outdoor job sites.
- Advanced safety and control features, such as automatic leveling or advanced fall protection systems.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the basic rental or purchase price, there are other costs to keep in mind when budgeting for a cherry picker
Transportation and Delivery Charges
Transport costs can add to both rental and purchase expenses. For rentals, delivery and pickup fees can range from modest charges to several hundred dollars depending on distance and size of the machine. For purchased units, you may need to pay for delivery from the dealer or ship the unit yourself using a heavyequipment transporter.
Operator Training and Certification
Many regions require certified training and licensing to operate a cherry picker safely and legally. Training courses can cost extra but are essential for workplace safety and regulatory compliance. Providing proof of competency may also be necessary for insurance purposes.
Maintenance and Repairs
Owning a cherry picker means ongoing maintenance. Regular servicing, inspections, replacement parts, and repairs contribute to the total cost of ownership. Annual maintenance costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on how often the machine is used and its age.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs
Whether you choose to rent or buy a cherry picker should depend on how often you need elevated access equipment and your budget. Renting provides flexibility and avoids longterm commitment, while owning can be more costeffective for frequent use. Consider the job requirements carefully – including height needs, terrain, and operator availability – when comparing costs. Renting is often ideal for shortterm construction or maintenance projects, while purchasing may suit businesses with ongoing needs for aerial access equipment.
Questions to Ask Before Buying or Renting
Before committing, consider asking
- What maximum height and outreach do I need?
- Can I operate the equipment safely and legally where I live?
- What are the total costs for rental vs. purchase over time?
- Does the rental fee include delivery, insurance, and an operator?
- Are there any additional attachments or safety features needed for my tasks?
The cost of a cherry picker varies widely based on whether you rent or buy, the type of model you need, and additional fees like transport, training, and maintenance. Rental rates can range from about $120 to more than $1,500 per day for larger models, or from approximately $300 to several thousand dollars per week depending on machine size and features. Purchased cherry pickers can range from roughly $10,000 for smaller units to over $100,000 for large, highcapacity lifts, with used equipment often providing savings. When budgeting for a cherry picker, consider all related expenses and your specific project needs to determine the most costeffective solution for your situation.