Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the Right Lift for Your Shop:
Choosing the right automotive lift is one of the most important equipment decisions a shop owner
will make. The wrong equipment can lead to installation issues and workflow problems inside the
shop

Why Most Shops Choose 2-Post Lifts:
1. Space Efficiency – 2-post lifts are often considered one of the more compact lift options. Their
design allows technicians to work around the vehicle without taking up unnecessary floor space
in the bay.
2. Versatility for Vehicles – 2-post lifts are designed to service most common road vehicles
including sedans, coupes, SUVs, and pickup trucks.
3. Full Wheel and Suspension Access – 2-post lifts are designed with open access under the
vehicle, allowing technicians to easily work on wheels, brakes, and suspension components.

Check Your Shop Space First:
1. Ceiling Height – Many shops overlook this measurement, but it is one of the most important. If
the ceiling height is too low, the vehicle may not be able to raise high enough for technicians to
safely and comfortably work underneath it.
2. Bay Width – Proper bay width ensures that vehicle doors can be safely opened when
positioning the car on the lift, lift arms can be easily moved into place, and technicians have
enough room to work around the vehicle.
3. Concrete Slab Thickness – Before purchasing a lift, make sure your concrete floor meets the
proper installation requirements. Do not install a lift on concrete that is cracked, too thin, or
structurally weak, as this can lead to failed inspections, equipment damage, or serious safety
risks.

Choosing the Right Lift Capacity:
1. 10,000 lb Lifts – These lifts are most commonly used for sedans, coupes, and SUVs, as these
vehicles typically fall within the lift’s weight capacity.
2. 12,000 lb Lifts – These are considered heavier duty lifts and are designed to service larger
vehicles such as trucks, vans, and fleet vehicles

Clear Floor vs Baseplate Lifts:
1. Clear-Floor Lifts – Clear-floor lifts feature top-routed cables and hydraulic lines, leaving the
floor unobstructed between the posts. This allows space for jacks, stands, and technicians to
move freely while working under the vehicle.
2. Baseplate Lifts – Baseplate lifts run cables along a plate at the floor between the posts,
making them a better option for shops with lower ceiling heights, though the floor plate can
make it slightly harder to move equipment underneath the vehicle.

Safety & Certification:
1. Check the certification – Each lift's product page lists its safety certification and load-test ratings. Review these before you buy so you know exactly what the lift has been tested to.
2. Look for mechanical safety locks – Automatic arm restraints and mechanical safety locks hold the vehicle in place if hydraulic pressure is lost. Always lower the lift onto its locks before working underneath.
3. Install to the manual – Anchor the lift in concrete that meets the manufacturer's requirements, and follow the product manual for setup. We strongly recommend professional installation.
4. Inspect regularly – Check cables, pulleys, locks and hydraulic lines as the manual recommends, and stop using the lift if anything looks worn or damaged.