JLG scissor lifts: how to choose between an indoor electric scissor and a rough-terrain scissor

Choosing the right scissor lift saves time, avoids unnecessary trips to site and keeps your crew working safely. JLG has two main scissor families: the ES series electrics, designed for smooth, firm floors such as concrete, and the ERT (electric) and RT (diesel) rough-terrain series, built for construction sites and uneven ground.

In this guide we explain when each one makes sense, compare the main current models and give you a list of questions to get it right first time.

When to choose an indoor electric scissor lift (ES series)

JLG ES series scissors (and the compact ES1330L and ES1530L) are the natural choice for working inside buildings and on smooth concrete floors, such as warehouses, industrial buildings, shopping centres, offices, hospitals, schools, sports halls and covered car parks.

Why they work well indoors:

• Compact dimensions: the narrow models are only 0.76 m to 0.81 m wide and fit through most doors, corridors and goods lifts. The ES1932 is 1.63 m high with the guardrails folded.
• Zero emissions and low noise: they run on 24 V batteries, with no exhaust fumes. They are ideal for enclosed spaces and places open to the public. Lithium battery options are available on several ES models.
• Non-marking tyres: the solid tyres leave no marks on finished floors.
• Manoeuvrability: with a zero inside turning radius, they can be positioned close to racking, walls and ceilings.
• Drive at height: most models can drive at full height in indoor mode, with no need to lower the platform to reposition.
• Moderate weight: between about 0.9 t and 2.8 t depending on the model. Even so, always check the floor's load capacity, especially on mezzanines, suspended slabs and raised access floors.

Limitations to bear in mind:

• They are designed for firm, level, smooth surfaces. Maximum gradeability when driving is 25%.
• Outdoors, some models lose capacity or height because of wind. The ES2632, for example, goes from 7.77 m and 230 kg indoors to 6.4 m and 125 kg outdoors. The ES4046 goes from 11.92 m to 8.75 m.
• The permitted number of occupants is also lower outdoors: typically 2 indoors and 1 outdoors (3 and 1 on the ES4046).

When to choose a rough-terrain scissor lift (ERT and RT series)

JLG rough-terrain scissors are built for construction sites, dirt or gravel ground, uneven surfaces and outdoor work, such as construction, steelwork, façades, roofing, industrial installation and outdoor events.

What sets them apart:

• Large decks and extensions: the 69" models (1.76 m wide) have a 3.3 × 1.6 m deck with a 1.07 m extension. The large RT models (RT3394, RT4394, RT5394) offer a 1.79 × 3.80 m deck with double extension and capacities of up to 909 kg.
• Built for outdoor work: capacity and number of occupants are generally the same indoors and outdoors.
• Traction and stability: they have an oscillating front axle, large foam-filled tyres and gradeability of 30% to 45%, depending on the model. The RT3394, RT4394 and RT5394 have 4×4 drive as standard. On the 69" RT models, 4×4 drive is available as an option.
• Levelling: the large RT models have hydraulic levelling jacks as standard. On the 69" ERT and RT models they are available as an option.
• Choice of power:
  • ERT (electric rough terrain): AC electric drive, with zero emissions on the job site. Ideal for sites with noise or emissions restrictions and for work that alternates between indoors and outdoors. An optional generator (Kubota Stage V) is available solely to charge the batteries.
  • RT (diesel): Kubota diesel engine, with fuel autonomy and power for demanding sites.
• Non-marking tyres: standard on the ERT models. On the RT range they are available on several models, which is useful when the machine also works inside buildings.

Limitations to bear in mind:

• At 1.76 m to 2.31 m wide, they do not fit through standard doors.
• They are much heavier: from about 3.7 t to 7.9 t. This requires suitable transport and a floor with sufficient load capacity.
• The diesel versions are not suitable for enclosed spaces without ventilation.

Comparison table: JLG indoor electric scissor lifts (concrete floors)

All ES series models have solid non-marking tyres and a gradeability of up to 25%.

Comparison table: JLG rough-terrain scissor lifts

Capacity on the deck extensions is 120 kg on most ES models, 136 kg on the 69" ERT and RT models and 230 kg on the RT3394, RT4394 and RT5394. Contact us to confirm the number of occupants, options and exact configuration of each machine.

Checklist: 8 questions to choose the right scissor lift

Before asking us for a quote, gather the answers to these questions:

1. What height will you work at? Give the height of the work point, for example a ceiling, a beam or a gutter. Working height is about 2 m above platform height.
2. What surface will you drive on? Smooth, level concrete, asphalt, gravel, compacted earth, mud or slopes? What is the maximum gradient?
3. Indoor work, outdoor work or both? Remember that some electric scissors lose height or capacity outdoors because of wind.
4. Where does the machine have to pass? Measure the width and height of doors, corridors, gates and goods lifts. Also check whether there are access ramps.
5. What load can the floor take? This is especially important on suspended slabs, mezzanines, raised access floors, underfloor-heated floors or sensitive surfaces. Take into account the machine's weight and ground bearing pressure.
6. How many people and how much material will be on the platform? Add up the weight of operators, tools and materials. Also consider whether you need a larger deck or extensions to reach further.
7. Are there emissions or noise restrictions? In enclosed spaces, hospitals, residential areas or events, choose an electric machine (ES or ERT).
8. How long will the job last and how will you power the machine? Check whether there are sockets to charge the batteries overnight or whether you need diesel autonomy or a generator to charge the batteries.

Need help choosing?

Every job is different. Talk to our team: tell us the height, type of floor, access and duration of the job, and we will recommend the most suitable JLG scissor lift to buy. If you only need the machine for a few days, the directory of platform rental companies shows who rents near you.

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Specifications are indicative and based on JLG's official spec sheets and website. They may vary depending on configuration, options and country-specific standards, and are subject to change without notice. Always confirm the details with our team before choosing a machine.