What is the difference between an articulating and telescopic boom lift?
An articulating boom has knuckle joints that allow it to reach around obstacles. A telescopic boom extends in a straight line and usually prioritises direct horizontal reach.
Access Equipment Guide
Boom Lifts Australia: Articulating & Telescopic
Boom lifts are mobile elevated work platforms that position a basket on a hydraulic arm, allowing workers to reach above, around and across obstacles. Articulating boom lifts use a knuckle to navigate around structures; telescopic boom lifts extend in a straight line for direct height and horizontal reach. Often called aerial lifts, boom EWPs or cherry pickers, they are a core access solution for construction, maintenance, utilities and industrial work across Australia.
Terminology
Also Known As
Australian sites, manufacturers and buyers use different names for similar access equipment. These are the terms commonly used for this category.
Boom liftboom EWPaerial liftaerial work platformarticulating boomtelescopic boomcherry picker
Selection
When It Fits
- Reaching over obstacles, parapets and plant
- Outdoor construction and industrial maintenance
- Façade, utilities and infrastructure access
- Jobs where vertical-only access from a scissor lift is not enough
Before You Book
Plan the Right Machine
The safest and most economical access choice starts with the real job conditions — not just the maximum height in a brochure.
01
Articulating versus telescopic boom geometry
02
Horizontal reach at the actual working height
03
Surface type and whether a rough-terrain machine is needed
04
Platform load, wind restrictions and site exclusion zones
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Mechanical, hydraulic and structural repair coordination for working fleets.
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Access equipment for project and replacement-machine requirements.
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Related Equipment Guides
Buying Guide
Boom Lift Brands in Australia: Genie, JLG, Haulotte, Skyjack, Snorkel and More Compared
The brands that dominate Australia's boom lift, cherry picker and aerial work platform market — Genie, JLG, Haulotte, Skyjack, Snorkel, Manitou — what each is known for and how to choose.
Read guideEWP Guide
Articulating vs Telescopic EWP Booms: Which Type Suits Your Job?
Articulating booms fold around obstacles and reach over obstructions. Telescopic booms extend further with cleaner reach. The job determines which one you need.
Read guideBuying Guide
Cherry Picker Hire in Australia: What to Know Before You Book an EWP, Boom Lift or Scissor Lift
Cherry pickers, boom lifts, scissor lifts and elevated work platforms for hire across Australia — how to match the right machine to the job, what to check before delivery, and what drives hire cost.
Read guideFAQs
Boom Lifts Questions
What should I check before hiring a boom lift?
Confirm the working height, usable horizontal reach, site surface, access route, platform capacity and the machine's inspection documentation before it arrives.
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