Overview of 6 Types of Lift Tables and Lifting Systems

Lift tables are available in various designs and configurations. The most suitable solution depends on factors such as the required load capacity, lifting height, available space and intended application.
In this article, we introduce six important types of lift tables and related lifting systems. You will learn how the different designs compare and which applications they are best suited for.

• 1. The classic scissor lift table: Versatility meets power
• 2. The low-profile lift table: Optimal for low installation heights
• 3. The industrial work platform: Efficiency and safety at height
• 4. Car lifts and elevators: An overview of types and applications
• 5. The column lift: Flexibility in platform design and lift height
• 6. The goods lift: Efficient load movement across multiple levels​​​​​​​

A  scissor lift table consists of a base frame, a scissor mechanism and a platform in its basic configuration. The scissor mechanism allows loads to be raised and lowered. Depending on the design and construction, scissor lift tables can be manufactured with different load capacities, lifting heights and platform dimensions.

hydraulic lift tables can be adapted to specific applications using various accessories, such as rotating platforms, tilting devices and roller conveyors. For special requirements, some lift table manufacturers also develop customised solutions tailored to the individual application.

Thanks to their versatile customisation options, scissor lift tables are suitable for a wide range of industrial applications, from ergonomic workstation design to load transfer in manufacturing and logistics processes.

Low-profile lift tables are characterised by their particularly low collapsed height. Depending on the design, they can therefore be installed without a floor pit. This is especially advantageous when retrofitting existing buildings.

For loading with a hand pallet truck, low-profile lift tables can be equipped with a U-shaped or E-shaped platform. This allows pallets to be placed directly onto the lift table without the need for an additional access ramp.

Low-profile lift tables are used, among other applications, as pallet loading stations. Depending on the application, they can also be equipped with roller conveyors to facilitate the transfer of loads to adjacent conveyor systems.

Industrial work platforms allow tasks such as repairs, assembly work and inspections to be carried out at different heights.

Another advantage is that tools and materials can be carried on the platform, provided the permissible load capacity is not exceeded. This ensures that the necessary equipment is readily available at the work location, helping to streamline workflows and save time.

Different types of lifting systems are used to lift and transport vehicles. Depending on the application, they vary in design, load capacity and features.

In car workshops, two-post and four-post vehicle lifts, as well as scissor lifts, are commonly used. They allow vehicles to be raised for inspection, maintenance and repair work.

In car dealerships and showrooms, specially designed lift tables can be used for vehicle presentation. With an additional rotating platform, a vehicle can be displayed from different angles.

Car lifts, on the other hand, are used to transport vehicles between different levels of a building.

A special type is the underground parking lift. Here, the vehicle is lowered below ground level on a platform, allowing the area above the lift to be used for other purposes.

In a column lift, the lifting movement is achieved using a lifting mast. A key advantage of this design compared to scissor lift tables is the flexibility to adjust the platform dimensions and lifting height independently of each other.

In addition, column lifts offer almost unlimited flexibility in platform geometry. For example, a U-shaped or E-shaped platform, similar to that of a low-profile lift table, is possible. This allows loading with a hand pallet truck without the need for a floor pit or access ramp.

Goods lifts enable the vertical transport of goods and other loads between different levels of a building. Depending on the design, a scissor lift table or a column lift can serve as the basis for the lifting mechanism.

When designing a goods lift, the safety requirements applicable to the specific configuration must be taken into account. These may include safety enclosures, interlocked access doors and other protective devices.

A special type of goods lift is the underground lift, which allows loads to be lowered below ground level. The area above the lowered lift can then be used for other purposes.