If you’ve ever searched for access equipment, you’ve probably come across the terms cherry picker and boom lift. While they’re often used interchangeably, many people wonder whether they’re actually different machines. The short answer is not really. In most cases, boom lift is the correct technical term, while cherry picker is the common name many people use to describe the same type of machine.

Cherry Picker vs Boom Lift

A boom lift is a type of elevated work platform (EWP) that uses a hydraulic boom to safely lift workers, tools and materials to elevated work areas. Unlike a scissor lift, a boom lift provides both vertical height and horizontal outreach, making it ideal for accessing difficult or obstructed locations.

The term cherry picker dates back to machines originally designed to harvest fruit from orchards. As hydraulic access equipment became more common, the nickname naturally carried across to boom lifts because they feature a long, extendable arm and elevated work platform.

Today, the two terms are commonly used to describe the same type of machine. While industry professionals typically refer to them as boom lifts, many contractors, tradespeople and homeowners still use the term cherry picker.

Types of Boom Lift

Although cherry picker and boom lift generally refer to the same equipment, there are two main types of boom lift designed for different applications.

Articulating Boom Lifts

Also known as knuckle booms, articulating boom lifts feature multiple pivot points that allow the boom to bend around obstacles. They’re ideal for accessing areas where a straight boom can’t reach, such as around buildings, trees, roofing structures and other obstructions.

Telescopic Boom Lifts

Also known as straight booms, telescopic boom lifts extend in a straight line to provide maximum horizontal outreach and working height. They’re commonly used on construction sites, industrial facilities and infrastructure projects where long reach is required.

Choosing the Right Boom Lift

Selecting the right boom lift depends on several factors, including:

• Required working height
• Horizontal outreach
• Site conditions
• Indoor or outdoor use
• Available working space
• Weight capacity

For example, an articulating boom lift is often the better choice when you need to work around obstacles, while a telescopic boom lift is ideal when maximum reach is the priority. Not sure which boom lift is right for your project? Contact our team today and we’ll help you choose the safest and most suitable machine for the job.

Need to Hire a Boom Lift?

Whether you call it a cherry picker or a boom lift, choosing the right machine is what matters most. At Ausdirect Hire, we offer a wide range of modern boom lifts for construction, maintenance, industrial and commercial projects. Our experienced team can help you select the most suitable boom lift based on your working height, site conditions and access requirements, ensuring you have the right equipment to complete the job safely and efficiently.

Contact Ausdirect Hire today to discuss your project or explore our range of boom lifts available for hire across Brisbane.