How to Safely Load a Scissor Lift: A Step-by-Step Guide

Loading a scissor lift onto a trailer can be a challenging and risky task, especially when using traditional methods like ramps or tilt trailers. These approaches often involve steep angles, making it difficult to load equipment safely and efficiently. At Drop Deck Direct, we offer a better solution: ground-level loading with our innovative scissor lift trailers. Here's a step-by-step guide to safely load your scissor lift while protecting your equipment and crew.

Step 1: Choose the Right Trailer

The first step to safe loading is selecting the proper trailer for your scissor lift. Traditional tilt trailers and ramps come with inherent risks, such as equipment tipping and increased wear on tires. Our HGL trailers eliminate these risks with a ground-level loading feature that lowers the deck to the ground.

Before loading, ensure the trailer matches your lift’s size and weight requirements. Use this quick guide:

• 19' Lift Height (2400-3300 lbs): HGL3510S

• 26' Lift Height (4000-4800 lbs): HGL5510S or HGL5610S

• 33' Lift Height (7600-10,000 lbs): HGL10612, HGL10614, or HGL10616

  
  

If you’re unsure which trailer is best, give us a call for expert advice.

Step 2: Position the Trailer

Start by parking the trailer. There is no need to engage the trailer’s brakes or wheel chocks. This is because the deck dropping to the ground creates a secure loading platform. For maximum efficiency, position the trailer as close as possible to the scissor lift’s location.

Step 3: Lower the Deck

Activate the hydraulic system to lower the trailer deck completely to the ground. The process takes less than 30 seconds and requires no additional tools. With the deck at ground level, you eliminate the risks of navigating steep inclines and reduce strain on your equipment and crew.

Step 4: Load the Scissor Lift

Carefully drive the scissor lift onto the trailer deck. Thanks to the level surface, the risk of tipping is significantly reduced. Use the built-in tie-down points and low-profile chain slots to securely fasten the lift in place, ensuring it remains stable during transport.

Step 5: Raise the Deck and Secure the Load

Once the lift is securely positioned, use the push-button controls to raise the deck back to its transport position. Verify that all tie-downs are tight and that the load is balanced. Properly securing the lift not only keeps it safe but also protects other drivers on the road.

The Benefits of Ground-Level Loading

Using a trailer designed for ground-level loading offers significant advantages over traditional methods:

• Enhanced Safety: No steep inclines mean less risk of equipment tipping or operator injury.

• Reduced Equipment Wear: Tires and the underside of your lift stay protected from scrapes and damage.

• Faster Loading Times: Lower or raise the deck in under 30 seconds and eliminate the need for ramps or additional tools.

• Simplified Operation: Intuitive controls allow even inexperienced operators to load and secure equipment quickly.

Durability You Can Trust

Drop Deck Direct’s HGL trailers are built to last. Constructed with heavy-duty steel and premium finishes, they’re designed for reliability in even the toughest conditions. Features like powder-coated finishes and a patented suspension system ensure long-term performance with minimal maintenance.

Our trailers are road-legal in all 50 states and Canada, making them the perfect solution for contractors, rental companies, and businesses that need dependable equipment transport.

Experience the Drop Deck Direct Difference

If you’re ready to simplify the way you load and transport scissor lifts, Drop Deck Direct has the solution. Our HGL trailers make the process safer, faster, and more efficient, helping you protect your crew, equipment, and schedule.

Contact us today or request a quote to find the perfect HGL trailer for your needs. Let us help you work smarter, not harder.