Two 20m-class boom lifts can have similar maximum working heights but radically different reach and platform-load limits. For a construction buyer, the choice begins with the actual three-dimensional work position—not the preferred boom shape or the lowest catalogue price.
Published model specification examples
| Published parameter | V18 articulating | J18 telescopic | Selection rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Working height | 20.2m | 20.5m | Not a combined work point |
| Platform height | 18.2m | 18.5m | Check platform floor target |
| Maximum horizontal outreach | 11.1m | 13.2m | See complete envelope |
| Platform load | 230/350kg restricted zones | 300kg | Use load-specific chart |
| Width | 2.49m | 2.49m | Check access |
| Weight | ~9,100kg | ~8,520kg | Check support/shipping |
Source scope: manufacturer-published data for named versions only; model revision, operating conditions and the quoted configuration must be rechecked before purchase.
1. Define the work point and measurement origin
Provide platform floor height, horizontal distance from the reference specified on the reach diagram, required load, obstacle geometry and machine positioning area. Maximum height and maximum reach are separate extrema and usually cannot be combined.
2. Compare genuine manufacturer models
The published V18 articulating model and J18 telescopic model have 20.2m and 20.5m working heights, but horizontal-reach maxima of 11.1m and 13.2m. The V18 lists 230/350kg load zones; the higher 350kg rating is restricted to its stated envelope. The J18 lists 300kg.
3. Case one: horizontal requirement excludes a machine
Illustrative task: platform height 16m, horizontal distance 12m, load 200kg. The V18 cannot meet a required 12m distance when its published maximum is 11.1m. J18 passes the maximum figures as an initial screen, but the supplier must plot the combined 16m/12m/200kg point in its valid envelope before confirming suitability.
4. Case two: load changes the shortlist
Illustrative task: platform height 14m, horizontal distance 8m, load 320kg. The J18 published 300kg rating fails the load requirement. The V18 350kg restricted zone may qualify only if the supplier confirms that precise point in the corresponding restricted-load chart. No compatibility is inferred from separate maxima.
5. Check access and obstacle clearance
Obstacles, rotation clearance, tail swing, driving route, ground support and power choice can invalidate an otherwise promising work envelope. Require a properly dimensioned site drawing and manufacturer chart for the exact configuration.
6. Supplier message
Subject: RFQ — Articulating or Telescopic Boom Lift Required platform height: [ ]m; horizontal reach: [ ]m from [specified reference]; platform load: [ ]kg. See site sketch for obstacles and access. Please mark the combined point on the exact model’s working-envelope chart for this load, state any limits and quote full configuration, delivery term and lead time.
Ask Levantis for comparable China quotes
Levantis can help request exact working-envelope charts and comparable Chinese articulating/telescopic boom quotations once you supply your target point, platform load and site sketch. A relevant professional must still confirm site safety conditions.