When it comes to safely and efficiently accessing elevated workspaces, scissor lifts are an essential piece of equipment. If you’re considering your options, you may be weighing the decision of renting a scissor lift versus purchasing one. While we don’t offer scissor lift rentals at The Lift Bros, we specialize in helping you find the perfect scissor lift to buy. In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of renting a scissor lift versus buying, using real-world pricing comparisons and showing you why purchasing a used lift from us could be the best choice for your business or personal use.

Renting a Scissor Lift: The Cost Breakdown
Let’s start by taking a look at the costs of renting a scissor lift. Renting is typically the go-to option for many businesses that only need a lift for a short-term project or for a specific task. For example, a well-known heavy equipment rental company charges the following for a 19’ Genie Scissor Lift:
- Item cost (for 2 weeks): $626
- Drop-off and pickup fee: $367
- Other fees (administrative, environmental, etc.): $12.52
- Total for 2 weeks: $1,005
This cost covers the time you’re using the scissor lift, but it doesn’t take into account the long-term usage and the hidden fees that can add up quickly if you rent frequently. If your project timeline stretches longer than expected or if you need multiple lifts, these costs can quickly escalate.
The Benefits of Buying a Used Scissor Lift
While renting a scissor lift might seem appealing in the short term, buying a used one can offer substantial long-term benefits. Let’s take a deeper look at why purchasing a used scissor lift from The Lift Bros can make more sense, both financially and operationally.
1. Long-Term Savings and Value
One of the main reasons businesses or individuals opt for buying a scissor lift is the long-term savings. For comparison, a used Genie 19’ scissor lift from The Lift Bros ranges from $4,250 to $8,500. This price difference depends on factors like the year of manufacture, whether the lift is refurbished, or the condition of parts.
- Used lifts offer significant savings upfront when compared to new models or the ongoing costs of renting.
- After the initial purchase, there are no recurring rental fees, so you get a higher return on investment (ROI) the longer you use the lift.
- Free shipping within 50 miles of our Chouteau, Oklahoma, location means you can save even more on transportation costs.
2. Ownership Flexibility and Control
When you buy a used scissor lift, you gain full ownership and control over the equipment. Unlike rental arrangements, there are no time constraints, hidden fees, or strict usage terms. You can use the lift whenever you need it, and you can count on it being ready when you are.
- No time limits: You can keep the lift for as long as you need, whether it’s for a big job or just for occasional use.
- No hidden fees: With rentals, you might encounter additional charges for late returns or extra equipment. When you own a lift, there are no surprises.
- Use it for personal or business purposes: Whether you’re using a scissor lift for a home project, construction work, or maintenance tasks at your place of business, owning the lift offers full flexibility.
3. The Ability to Resell and Reclaim Value
One of the key benefits of owning a scissor lift is that it’s an asset you can sell if you no longer need it. This is a huge advantage over renting, where you never get any return on your investment.
- Sell it if you outgrow the need: If your business or personal project evolves and you no longer need the lift, you can sell it and recoup some of the money you spent. This is an investment that can give you financial return if circumstances change.
- Residual value: Used lifts can retain a significant amount of value, especially if they are well-maintained and still in good working condition. With proper care, they can last for many years, ensuring a lasting value for your purchase.
4. Full Warranty for Peace of Mind
When buying a used lift from The Lift Bros, you can rest easy knowing that your investment is backed by a 30-day warranty. This warranty ensures that if there are any issues with the lift within the first 30 days, you are covered and can receive the support you need.
- No rental headaches: With rentals, you’re at the mercy of the rental company when it comes to maintenance and repairs. With your own lift, you’re in control of maintenance schedules, ensuring it’s always in working order when you need it.
- Warranty protection: The 30-day warranty gives you peace of mind that if something goes wrong in the first month of use, we’ll fix it at no extra cost.
5. Reliable Quality at a Fraction of the Cost
Buying a refurbished or used scissor lift doesn’t mean you’re compromising on quality. In fact, many used lifts, especially those that are refurbished, undergo rigorous inspections and repairs to ensure they meet high-quality standards. At The Lift Bros, we take pride in the condition of the lifts we sell.
- Refurbished lifts are often just as reliable as new ones, but at a much lower price.
- Thorough inspections: Our used lifts are carefully inspected, and any necessary repairs are made to ensure that they function as well as new equipment.
Buying vs Renting a Scissor Lift: Key Takeaways
Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of renting versus buying a scissor lift:

Conclusion: Buying vs. Renting a Scissor Lift
While renting a scissor lift can be a viable option for short-term projects, buying a used lift from The Lift Bros offers a number of benefits that make it a smarter, more cost-effective solution for many businesses and individuals. You’ll enjoy long-term savings, ownership flexibility, and the ability to resell your lift if your needs change. Plus, our lifts come with free shipping within 50 miles of Chouteau, Oklahoma, and a 30-day warranty for peace of mind.
At The Lift Bros, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable lifts that suit your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a 19’ Genie scissor lift or another model, we have options to meet your requirements. Don’t hesitate to check out our shop page for more details on our selection of used lifts.
Additionally, if you’re interested in seeing more about scissor lifts in action, be sure to visit our YouTube page for helpful tutorials, maintenance tips, and more!