Working at height safely and efficiently is a challenge in many industries. Whether it’s construction, maintenance, electrical work, or tree care, the need for stable and reliable height access equipment is essential. This is where cherry picker hire comes in.
Cherry picker hire means renting a mobile access platform that lifts workers to elevated areas where ladders or scaffolding are unsafe or impractical. Instead of purchasing expensive equipment, you simply hire a cherry picker for the time you need it—often with a trained operator included.
This article explains what cherry picker hire is, how it works, its benefits, uses, and why it has become the preferred option across London and the UK.
What Exactly Is a Cherry Picker?
A cherry picker—also known as a boom lift, MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform), or access platform—is a hydraulic machine designed to lift workers to various heights while keeping them safe and stable. The machine typically includes:
- A strong, extendable boom arm
- A secure work platform or basket
- Safety controls & harness points
- 360-degree movement for flexible access
Originally used in orchards for picking fruit (hence the name “cherry picker”), it is now widely used in construction, maintenance, and repair industries.
What Is Cherry Picker Hire?
Cherry picker hire refers to renting this height-access machine for a set number of hours or a full day. Instead of buying the equipment—often costing tens of thousands—customers pay an affordable hire fee and gain access to safe, professional lifting equipment.
Hiring options usually include:
1. Cherry Picker Hire With Operator
A trained and certified operator controls the machine. This is the safest and most popular option, especially in busy cities like London.
2. Self-Drive Cherry Picker Hire
You operate the machine yourself after basic training (less common for beginners).
3. Van-Mounted & Mobile Cherry Picker Hire
Perfect for street works, signage, CCTV, and building maintenance.
Why People Choose Cherry Picker Hire Instead of Buying
Hiring a cherry picker offers many advantages:
Cost-Effective
Buying a cherry picker is extremely expensive (£20,000–£70,000). Hiring costs only a small fraction of that.
No Maintenance or Storage Needed
Owning heavy machinery comes with insurance, repairs, and storage. Hiring avoids all of these expenses.
Professional Operator Included
Most companies provide certified IPAF operators who ensure safety and efficiency.
Flexible Hire Options
Hourly, half-day, full-day, and extended hire periods are available.
Safer Than Ladders or Makeshift Setups
Cherry pickers provide a stable work platform with proper safety features.
Where Cherry Pickers Are Commonly Used
Cherry pickers are used across multiple industries because they provide fast and safe height access.
1. Roofing & Gutter Work
- Roof inspections
- Leak repairs
- Gutter cleaning and replacement
2. Electrical & Lighting Work
- Street light repairs
- CCTV installation
- Sign lighting setup
3. Building Maintenance
- Window cleaning
- Painting
- Brick pointing
- Facade repairs
4. Commercial and Industrial Use
- Factory maintenance
- Warehouse lighting
- Construction sites
5. Tree Surgery & Landscaping
- Tree trimming
- Branch removal
- Difficult-to-reach tree work
6. Signage Installation
- Shop signs
- Billboards
- Advertising boards
In London especially, cherry pickers are essential because scaffolding is expensive and slow to install.
Types of Cherry Pickers Available for Hire
Different jobs require different machines. Common hire options include:
Van-Mounted Cherry Picker
- Perfect for roadside work
- Very popular in London
- Highly mobile
Towable/Mobile Cherry Picker
- Great for homes and small businesses
- Easy to transport
Boom Lift
- Best for high reach
- Provides excellent outreach
- Used in industrial or construction settings
Scissor Lift (Related Equipment)
- Used for straight vertical lifting
- Ideal for indoor maintenance
How Much Does Cherry Picker Hire Cost?
Pricing depends on the height, type, and duration of hire.
Typical Cherry Picker Hire Prices in the UK:
- £120–£200 per hour (with operator)
- £350–£500 per day
- Additional cost for specialised work (e.g., tree trimming)
Hiring is significantly cheaper than scaffolding, which can cost thousands.
Benefits of Cherry Picker Hire
✓ Safe and Stable Work Platform
Designed for working at height with proper safety systems.
✓ Faster Job Completion
Reach high areas in seconds, not hours.
✓ Affordable & Flexible
Hire only for the time you need.
✓ Suitable for Narrow London Streets
Compact models fit tight spaces, ideal for residential areas.
✓ Reduces Labour Costs
No need for scaffolding or multiple workers.
Who Should Hire a Cherry Picker?
- Builders
- Electricians
- Roofers
- Window cleaners
- Signage companies
- Tree surgeons
- Property maintenance firms
- Homeowners with high maintenance tasks
Anyone needing safe height access can benefit from cherry picker hire.
Conclusion
Cherry picker hire is the most efficient, affordable, and safe solution for working at height. Instead of investing in expensive machines, individuals and businesses can simply hire a cherry picker when needed—complete with a trained operator and full safety equipment.
Whether for roof repairs, tree trimming, electrical work, or building maintenance, cherry pickers provide unmatched speed, safety, and convenience.
