Buying a Car Lift for Commercial Use: What You Need to Know

Car lifts are indispensable pieces of equipment for commercial auto shops, repair centers, and car enthusiasts who desire to work on their vehicles at home. They provide easy access to the underside of a car, which is critical for any repair or maintenance job. 

The global vehicle lift market is projected to experience a surge in demand, as per a recent report by Market Decipher. This is attributed to the increased need for vehicle lifts in garages within the automotive industry, owing to the government and various agencies’ stringent safety standards for working environments in automotive garages.

However, selecting the appropriate car lift can be overwhelming. This article aims to shed light on some essential factors to consider when purchasing a car lift for commercial use.

Buying a Car Lift for Commercial Use

Contents

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of a car lift is an essential consideration when choosing a car lift for commercial use. The weight capacity of a car lift typically ranges from 7,000 to 18,000 pounds, so it’s crucial to consider the weight of the cars you will be working on. When it comes to weight capacity, it’s essential to do your research and explore different options. 

One way to do this is by searching for car lifts online. Best Buy Automotive Equipment is one of many online retailers that offer a variety of car lifts with different weight capacities. In addition to car lifts, they offer other related equipment like tire changers and wheel balancers. It’s always a good idea to visit a retailer’s website for more info to help you make an informed decision.

While browsing online, be sure to read reviews and compare prices to find the best deal. It’s also important to consider the manufacturer’s reputation and the reliability of the product before making a purchase.

Type of Lift

While there are many types of car lifts, they are broadly divided into two categories: two-post lifts and four-post lifts. A two-post lift is ideal for maintenance work and is more affordable than a four-post lift. Two-post lifts have a smaller footprint, making them more suitable for smaller garages or auto shops. However, they have a lower weight capacity compared to four-post lifts. 

A four-post lift is more suitable for long-term storage and can handle heavier vehicles. They also provide additional stability and safety when lifting a car. However, four-post lifts tend to take up more space and cost more than two-post lifts.

A recent article on Lemon Bin noted that while four-post lifts may be capable of lifting heavier weights than two-post lifts, they come in various weight ratings. Therefore, it is crucial to select a lift that can handle the weight of the heaviest car that you plan to elevate on it.

Lift Height

The lift height of a car lift determines how high it can lift a car. It’s essential to consider the height of the tallest vehicle you will be lifting and ensure the car lift can handle it. Most lifts have a lift height of between 6 and 8 feet, but some lifts can go as high as 12 feet. 

A higher lift height can provide better access to the underside of a car, making it easier to work on. However, a higher lift height may require a more extensive and expensive installation process, especially for garages or auto shops with low ceilings.

Safety Features

Safety is critical when using car lifts, and it’s essential to choose a car lift with the necessary safety features

The most important safety feature is automatic locks, which lock the lift in place once it’s been raised. Other safety features include safety shut-off systems, which automatically turn off the lift if there’s a problem, and automatic locking systems, which prevent the lift from lowering if there’s a problem. 

Some lifts also come with additional safety features, such as anti-sway bars, which provide additional stability and prevent the lift from swaying when a car is raised.

Space

The amount of space available in your garage or auto shop is an essential consideration when choosing a car lift. It’s important to ensure that you have enough space to accommodate the lift and maneuver vehicles in and out of the lift. Two-post lifts have a smaller footprint than four-post lifts, making them more suitable for smaller garages or auto shops. 

While they take up more space, four-post lifts provide additional stability and can be used for long-term storage. A post on Giga Wheels in 2023 emphasized the safety benefits of four-post lifts, which are designed to provide support from both sides of the car. In contrast, two-post lifts only support the vehicle from one side, making four-post lifts a safer option.

It’s important to measure the available space in your garage or auto shop and choose a lift that fits comfortably without restricting access to other areas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right car lift for commercial use requires careful consideration of several factors. The weight capacity, type of lift, lift height, safety features, and available space are all essential factors to consider. By making an informed decision, you can choose a car lift that meets your needs and ensures safe and efficient operation in your garage or auto shop.

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