Boom Lift inspection
Pre-Purchase Inspection

Pre-Purchase Boom Lift Inspections

Safety systems, structural integrity, and hydraulic reliability are critical on aerial equipment. Don't take chances — get independent verification before you buy.

✓ Nationwide Coverage ✓ Independent & Unbiased ✓ 24-48 hours Turnaround

Buying a Used Boom Lift Without an Inspection?

Boom lifts carry workers to dangerous heights. Worn hydraulics, faulty safety systems, or structural damage aren't just expensive problems — they're safety hazards. A proper inspection protects your investment and your crew.

Common Issues We Find:

Hydraulic Cylinder Leaks

Boom, jib, and platform cylinders develop internal leaks and rod scoring. Rebuilds cost $2,500–$8,000 per cylinder.

Turntable Bearing Wear

Worn slew bearings cause rotation play and grinding noise. Replacement runs $8,000–$20,000 including labor.

Platform Control Failures

Ground and platform controls malfunction due to worn switches, bad wiring, or water damage. Repairs range $1,500–$6,000.

Engine/Power Issues

Diesel or dual-fuel engines develop problems from sitting idle. Repairs range from $3,000–$15,000 depending on severity.

Safety System Defects

Tilt alarms, load sensors, and emergency stops fail. Repairs cost $1,000–$5,000, but a failed annual inspection costs more.

Structural Cracks

Boom sections, turntable, and chassis develop stress cracks from overloading or impact damage. Repairs require certified welding.

⚠ What Missed Problems Can Cost You $5,000 - $35,000

This is what repairs cost when issues go undetected. Our inspection is just $800.

Most Inspections Focus on Cosmetics
IronCheck Condition. Function. Risk.

WHAT WE INSPECT

Boom Lift Inspection Checklist

Our inspectors perform a comprehensive boom lift evaluation covering structural components, hydraulic systems, electrical controls, and all safety devices. We function test everything from ground and platform controls.

General Condition

  • Serial number verification
  • Hour meter verification
  • Service and inspection records
  • Overall appearance assessment
  • Annual inspection status
  • Capacity and spec plate legibility

Structural Components

  • Main boom sections
  • Telescoping boom sections
  • Jib/fly boom (if equipped)
  • Platform and railings
  • Turntable and pedestal
  • Chassis and frame
  • Outriggers/stabilizers (if equipped)
  • Weld inspection for cracks

Hydraulic System

  • Boom lift cylinders
  • Boom extend cylinders
  • Jib cylinders (if equipped)
  • Platform level cylinders
  • Slew motor and gearbox
  • Hydraulic pump condition
  • Hoses and fittings
  • Hydraulic tank and filters
  • Fluid level and condition

Turntable/Slew System

  • Slew bearing condition
  • Rotation smoothness
  • Bearing play check
  • Slew brake function
  • 360° rotation test

Platform

  • Platform floor condition
  • Railings and mid-rails
  • Entry gate and latch
  • Platform capacity plate
  • Tie-off anchor points
  • Tool tray (if equipped)

Controls - Platform

  • All control functions
  • Control box condition
  • Emergency stop
  • Horn
  • Display/hour meter
  • Control responsiveness

Controls - Ground

  • All control functions
  • Override capability
  • Emergency stop
  • Control lockout
  • Key switch

Safety Systems

  • Tilt/level alarm
  • Load sensing system
  • Descent alarm
  • Emergency lowering
  • Platform overload indicator
  • Travel cutout at height
  • Swing lock (if equipped)

Power System - Engine

  • Cold start test
  • Idle and throttle response
  • Exhaust smoke
  • Oil pressure
  • Coolant system
  • Fuel system condition

Power System - Electric/Hybrid

  • Battery pack condition
  • Charger function
  • Battery age/cycles
  • Hybrid system operation
  • Charge level indicator

Drive System

  • Drive motors (2WD/4WD)
  • Travel speed and response
  • Steering function
  • Brake hold test
  • Parking brake
  • Tire/wheel condition

Outriggers (if equipped)

  • Extension and retraction
  • Level indicators
  • Pad condition
  • Interlock function

Operational Testing

  • Full boom extension
  • Maximum platform height
  • Jib articulation
  • Slew rotation (both directions)
  • Drive and steer test
  • Emergency descent test
  • All safety function tests

WHAT YOU'LL RECEIVE

Your Inspection Report Includes

Detailed Photo Documentation

30-45 high-resolution photos covering boom sections, platform, turntable, hydraulic cylinders, control stations, tires, engine compartment, and any areas of concern.

Comprehensive Condition Report

Written summary with Good/Fair/Poor ratings for structural, hydraulic, electrical, and safety systems. Clear identification of any items that would affect annual certification.

Operational Video

Video footage of the boom lift operating through full range of motion — extension, rotation, platform leveling, and drive functions. See exactly how the machine performs.

HOW IT WORKS

Simple 3-Step Process

01

Book & Schedule

Send us the boom lift details (make, model, serial number) and location. We coordinate with the seller to schedule the inspection.

02

We Inspect

Our inspector performs a thorough evaluation — testing all functions, checking safety systems, and documenting findings with photos and video.

03

Get Your Report

Receive your detailed inspection report via email within 24 hours. Know exactly what you're buying before you commit.

⏱ Typical Turnaround: 24-48 hours
Boom Lift Inspection
$800
Per Machine
  • ✓ Complete system inspection
  • ✓ 25-40 detailed photos
  • ✓ Operational video
  • ✓ Written condition report
  • ✓ No hidden fees

Book Your Inspection

Protect your investment before you buy.

Schedule Now

Or call (630) 432-7344

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Boom Lift Inspection FAQs

Most boom lift inspections take 2-3 hours. Larger units (80ft+) or machines with jibs and advanced features may take longer.

We inspect all major brands including JLG, Genie, Skyjack, Haulotte, Snorkel, Manitou, and Niftylift. Articulating and telescopic boom lifts of all sizes.

Yes. Safety is critical on aerial equipment. We test tilt alarms, load sensors, emergency stops, descent alarms, and all safety interlocks.

No. Our pre-purchase inspection is a thorough buyer's evaluation, not a certified annual inspection. However, we identify issues that would likely cause an annual inspection failure.

Yes. We inspect diesel, electric, and hybrid boom lifts. For electric units, we evaluate battery condition, charger function, and estimate remaining battery life.

We inspect both types. Articulating booms have more pivot points and cylinders to evaluate, while telescopic booms have longer extension systems to check.

When safe conditions allow, we extend the boom to full height to verify proper function, stability, and platform leveling throughout the range of motion.

Our report identifies issues that could cause certification problems. This gives you negotiating leverage or helps you avoid a bad purchase altogether.

WHY CHOOSE IRONCHECK?

The IronCheck Difference

Independent & Unbiased

We work for you, not the seller. Our only job is telling you the truth about the machine's condition and safety.

Aerial Equipment Expertise

Our inspectors understand boom lift systems — hydraulics, controls, and the safety devices that keep workers alive at height.

Nationwide Coverage

We inspect boom lifts across all 50 states. Wherever the machine is located, we can get an inspector on-site.

Fast Turnaround

Most inspections scheduled within 24-48 hours. Report delivered same day or next business day.

Ready to Inspect Before You Invest?

Boom lifts are safety-critical equipment. A hidden hydraulic leak or faulty safety system puts workers at risk. Get independent verification before you buy.

CALL (630) 432-7344