A cherry picker lifts people and equipment to high areas. They are used in construction, maintenance, and other industries for tasks like cleaning windows, repairing roofs, or trimming trees. Many people make mistakes when hiring a cherry picker in London. Read this blog until the end to learn how to avoid common mistakes when hiring a cherry picker.

Do not choose the wrong type of cherry picker, research first.

You should research before choosing a cherry picker. You will find many types, each suited to different tasks. You can make a common mistake by picking the wrong one. Some jobs require higher reach. Others need more manoeuvrability. You might feel tempted to choose the first cherry picker you find, but the right choice depends on height needs, material weight, and access to the work area.

Consider a compact model if you work in tight or confined spaces. If you need greater reach, a telescopic boom lift may be a better option. You must assess your needs before booking a cherry picker in London.

Avoid not paying attention to ground conditions.

You should always consider ground conditions in London, as they can vary. Uneven or soft ground can be risky when working outdoors. You risk accidents and damage if you hire a cherry picker not suited for these conditions. Inspect the area where you will be using the machine. If you work on soft or uneven terrain, consider hiring a cherry picker with outriggers or stabilisers for added support.

You should also be aware of the weather conditions. After heavy rain, the ground might be slippery or boggy. You need to ensure the cherry picker can handle these conditions, especially when accessing higher or more precarious areas.

Avoid not going through the machine’s specifications

Cherry picker models come with their specifications. Check the machine's maximum height and weight limit and reach specifications before booking. Overloading or using a cherry picker beyond its limits can cause accidents or machine failure. Ensure the machine you hire has the right lifting capacity for personnel and any tools or equipment you plan to carry.

Remember to confirm the machine's working height and platform height. Working height refers to the maximum distance from the ground to where you will be working, which is often higher than the platform height. Getting this wrong can impact the safety and efficiency of your work.

Do not ignore operator training requirements.

You cannot treat a cherry picker as a simple toy. You need skills, safety knowledge, and an understanding of the machine's functions. Without experience, you risk safety. You should always ensure your team members are trained to operate the specific cherry-picker model you plan to hire.

If your operators aren’t trained, you should arrange training sessions. It’s better to train in advance than deal with the consequences of poor machine handling or accidents. Training can prevent mishaps and help keep your project on track.

Avoid ignoring pickup and delivery costs.

When hiring a cherry picker, consider more than just the rental fee. Delivery and pickup charges can increase your overall costs, especially if the worksite is far from the rental company. You should factor in these additional costs before committing to hiring a cherry picker in London. Some rental companies may offer better terms, including delivery and collection, or offer them at a discounted rate for long-term rentals.

You must also confirm the delivery and collection times. Any delays could push back your project and affect your schedule.

Avoid not looking at the condition.

You wouldn’t drive a car without first checking its condition. You would be concerned about your safety. The same goes for a cherry picker. You should never hire one without certifying its working mechanism. You must ensure the machine is well-maintained and meets all safety standards.

Check for signs of wear, damage, or leaks before accepting delivery. A faulty cherry picker can delay your project and put your workers at risk.

If you’re ready to hire a cherry picker in London, AFI Rentals offers reliable, well-maintained equipment to suit your needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find the ideal machine for the job.