What Is a Cherry Picker Used For?
When working at height, safety, efficiency and accessibility are essential considerations. Whether carrying out maintenance on commercial buildings, installing signage, trimming trees, or undertaking construction work, having the right equipment can make a significant difference to both productivity and safety.
One of the most versatile pieces of access equipment available is the cherry picker. Used across numerous industries throughout the UK, cherry pickers provide a safe and effective way to reach elevated working areas that would otherwise be difficult or dangerous to access.
Businesses, contractors and facilities managers regularly hire cherry pickers from specialist providers such as Access Hire UK to complete projects safely while meeting current health and safety regulations.
What Is a Cherry Picker?
A cherry picker is a type of Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) designed to lift workers, tools and materials to elevated work areas. The machine consists of a platform or basket attached to a hydraulic lifting system, allowing operators to reach heights safely without relying on ladders or scaffolding.
The name “cherry picker” originates from machines originally developed to assist fruit pickers harvesting cherries from tall trees. Modern versions have evolved significantly and are now used across construction, maintenance, telecommunications, utilities and many other sectors.
Cherry pickers come in various sizes and configurations to suit different applications, including articulated boom lifts, telescopic boom lifts and truck-mounted platforms.
Common Uses for Cherry Pickers
Cherry pickers are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide variety of tasks.
| Application | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Building Maintenance | Roof inspections, gutter repairs, window cleaning |
| Construction | Installation of cladding, steelwork and roofing |
| Tree Surgery | Pruning, trimming and removal of branches |
| Signage Installation | Fitting advertising boards and commercial signs |
| Telecommunications | Maintenance of aerials and communication equipment |
| Electrical Work | Accessing overhead power systems and lighting |
| Property Management | External inspections and repairs |
| Event Setup | Lighting rigs, banners and staging installations |
The ability to safely access difficult locations makes cherry pickers one of the most valuable pieces of equipment for working at height.
Building Maintenance and Repairs
One of the most common uses for cherry pickers is building maintenance.
Commercial properties, schools, hospitals, warehouses and office buildings all require routine inspections and repairs. Accessing high-level areas safely can often be challenging using traditional methods.
Cherry pickers provide direct access to:
- Roof edges
- Gutters and downpipes
- Fascias and soffits
- External cladding
- High-level windows
- Ventilation systems
- Solar panel installations
Unlike scaffolding, which can take days to erect and dismantle, a cherry picker can often be positioned and operational within minutes. This can significantly reduce project timescales while improving productivity.
Tree Surgery and Arboricultural Work
Professional tree surgeons frequently use cherry pickers when working on large trees.
While climbing remains common in arboriculture, certain jobs can be completed more safely and efficiently using a MEWP. This is particularly useful when dealing with:
- Diseased trees
- Storm-damaged branches
- Deadwood removal
- Large-scale pruning
- Trees located near buildings
The stable platform enables operatives to work comfortably while maintaining safe access to difficult areas within the canopy.
Construction Projects
Construction sites across the UK regularly rely on cherry pickers for high-level access.
From residential developments to major commercial projects, cherry pickers help contractors perform a variety of tasks safely and efficiently.
Common construction applications include:
| Construction Activity | Benefit of Using a Cherry Picker |
|---|---|
| Steel Erection | Access to structural frameworks |
| Roofing Installation | Safe access to roof structures |
| Cladding Work | Improved reach and manoeuvrability |
| Window Installation | Precise positioning at height |
| Mechanical Services | Access to ductwork and pipework |
| Electrical Installation | Safe working platform for cables and lighting |
Many contractors choose powered access equipment because it offers flexibility and can be moved around a site quickly as work progresses.
Signage Installation and Maintenance
Commercial signage often requires installation at significant heights.
Retail parks, shopping centres, industrial estates and city-centre buildings all feature signage that must be installed, maintained and occasionally replaced.
Cherry pickers provide the reach and stability needed for:
- Shop front signage
- Illuminated signs
- Billboard maintenance
- Corporate branding installations
- Directional signage
- LED display systems
The platform allows technicians to work with precision while carrying tools and equipment safely.
Window Cleaning
Many commercial buildings feature extensive glazing that requires regular cleaning.
Traditional methods can be time-consuming and may not always provide safe access to every area. Cherry pickers enable cleaning teams to reach elevated windows efficiently while maintaining a safe working environment.
This is particularly beneficial for:
- Office buildings
- Hotels
- Hospitals
- Shopping centres
- Apartment blocks
- Educational facilities
The ability to manoeuvre around building features often makes cherry pickers more practical than alternative access methods.
Telecommunications and Utility Work
Utility providers and telecommunications engineers frequently rely on cherry pickers to access elevated infrastructure.
These machines are commonly used when maintaining:
- Mobile phone masts
- CCTV systems
- Fibre optic networks
- Street lighting
- Electrical distribution equipment
- Communication towers
The controlled movement of the platform allows engineers to position themselves accurately while carrying specialist equipment.
Advantages of Using a Cherry Picker
There are numerous reasons why businesses choose cherry pickers over alternative access solutions.
Enhanced Safety
Working at height presents significant risks. Cherry pickers are specifically designed to provide a stable and secure working platform, helping operators comply with health and safety requirements.
Modern machines typically feature:
- Guardrails
- Emergency lowering systems
- Load sensors
- Stability monitoring
- Harness attachment points
Increased Productivity
Because cherry pickers can be deployed quickly, work can often begin much sooner than with scaffold-based solutions.
This can reduce downtime and improve project efficiency.
Greater Reach
Many areas are difficult to access using ladders or scaffolding.
Cherry pickers can provide access to:
- Over roofs
- Around obstacles
- Across uneven terrain
- Into confined working areas
Flexibility
Different types of cherry pickers can be selected depending on the task.
This ensures the most suitable equipment is available for every project.
Types of Cherry Picker
Understanding the different types available helps businesses choose the right machine for their requirements.
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Articulated Boom Lift | Working around obstacles |
| Telescopic Boom Lift | Maximum outreach and height |
| Truck Mounted Cherry Picker | Fast deployment across multiple locations |
| Trailer Mounted Cherry Picker | Lightweight access applications |
| Electric Cherry Picker | Indoor environments |
| Diesel Cherry Picker | Outdoor and rough terrain use |
Each machine offers specific advantages depending on the working environment and project requirements.
How High Can a Cherry Picker Reach?
Modern cherry pickers are available in a wide range of working heights.
| Working Height | Typical Applications |
|---|---|
| 10–15 metres | Property maintenance and signage |
| 15–25 metres | Construction and commercial work |
| 25–40 metres | Large industrial projects |
| 40+ metres | Major infrastructure and specialist access |
Selecting the correct height is essential for ensuring safe and efficient operation.
When Is a Cherry Picker Better Than Scaffolding?
While scaffolding remains an important access solution, cherry pickers often provide significant advantages.
| Cherry Picker | Scaffolding |
|---|---|
| Rapid setup | Longer installation time |
| Easy repositioning | Fixed structure |
| Suitable for short-term tasks | Better for extended projects |
| Lower site disruption | Larger footprint |
| Access to multiple areas | Limited flexibility |
For inspection work, maintenance tasks and short-duration projects, a cherry picker can often be the more practical solution.
Factors Affecting Cherry Picker Hire Costs
Several factors influence the cost of hiring a cherry picker.
These include:
- Working height required
- Machine type
- Hire duration
- Delivery location
- Site conditions
- Operator requirements
- Fuel type
- Specialist features
Businesses seeking reliable, well-maintained equipment often prioritise quality, safety standards and professional support rather than simply focusing on the lowest possible hire rates.
Typical Cherry Picker Hire Price Guide
The following figures provide a general indication of market pricing across the UK.
| Equipment Type | Typical Daily Hire Cost |
|---|---|
| Small Electric Cherry Picker | £150–£250+ |
| Articulated Boom Lift | £200–£400+ |
| Telescopic Boom Lift | £250–£600+ |
| Truck Mounted Cherry Picker | £350–£900+ |
| Specialist High-Reach Equipment | £1,000+ |
Organisations carrying out critical projects often prefer premium equipment providers that maintain modern fleets, comprehensive servicing schedules and high safety standards. As a result, quality-focused providers may sit towards the higher end of pricing ranges while delivering greater reliability and support.
Industries That Commonly Use Cherry Pickers
Cherry pickers are used throughout many sectors.
Some of the most common industries include:
| Industry | Typical Tasks |
|---|---|
| Construction | Installation and maintenance |
| Facilities Management | Building inspections and repairs |
| Local Authorities | Street lighting and infrastructure |
| Telecommunications | Network maintenance |
| Utilities | Electrical and power systems |
| Arboriculture | Tree management |
| Events | Stage and lighting setup |
| Retail | Signage installation |
The versatility of cherry pickers means they continue to play a vital role in projects ranging from small property maintenance jobs to large-scale infrastructure developments.
Choosing the Right Cherry Picker for Your Project
Selecting the correct machine involves evaluating several factors.
Key considerations include:
- Required working height
- Horizontal outreach
- Ground conditions
- Indoor or outdoor use
- Weight restrictions
- Site access limitations
- Duration of work
- Number of operators
Working with an experienced access equipment provider can help ensure the most suitable machine is selected for the task.
Businesses across the UK frequently choose Access Hire UK for professional powered access solutions, benefiting from a range of cherry pickers suitable for construction, maintenance, industrial and commercial applications.
Safety Considerations When Using a Cherry Picker
Although cherry pickers are designed to provide a safer alternative to ladders and other access methods, proper planning and operation remain essential. Every project should begin with a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and ensure appropriate control measures are in place.
Some of the most common risks associated with working at height include:
- Uneven ground conditions
- Overhead power lines
- High winds and adverse weather
- Falling objects
- Restricted access areas
- Vehicle and pedestrian traffic
Operators should always follow manufacturer guidelines and site-specific safety procedures. Before use, the machine should be inspected to confirm it is in good working order and free from any defects that could affect performance or safety.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) may also be required depending on the task being undertaken. This can include safety helmets, high-visibility clothing, protective footwear and fall protection equipment where necessary.
Indoor vs Outdoor Cherry Pickers
Not all cherry pickers are suitable for every environment. The type of machine selected should reflect the conditions on site and the nature of the work being carried out.
Indoor Cherry Pickers
Electric cherry pickers are commonly used indoors because they produce no emissions and operate more quietly than diesel-powered alternatives. This makes them particularly suitable for:
- Warehouses
- Distribution centres
- Shopping centres
- Manufacturing facilities
- Exhibition halls
- Airports
Many indoor models also feature non-marking tyres, helping to protect finished flooring surfaces.
Outdoor Cherry Pickers
For external projects, diesel-powered cherry pickers are often preferred due to their increased power and ability to operate on rough terrain.
Outdoor applications commonly include:
- Construction sites
- Infrastructure projects
- Industrial facilities
- Agricultural buildings
- Utilities maintenance
- Large-scale property repairs
Rough terrain models are equipped with larger tyres and enhanced stability systems, allowing them to perform effectively on uneven ground conditions.
Why Businesses Hire Rather Than Buy Cherry Pickers
While some organisations invest in their own access equipment, many businesses find hiring to be a more practical and cost-effective solution.
Ownership involves significant upfront investment, as well as ongoing costs associated with maintenance, servicing, inspections, insurance and storage. For companies that only require access equipment occasionally, these expenses can be difficult to justify.
Hiring provides access to modern equipment without the long-term financial commitment.
Some key advantages of hiring include:
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Lower Capital Outlay | No large purchase cost |
| Access to Modern Equipment | Use the latest machinery when required |
| Reduced Maintenance Responsibility | Servicing and inspections are typically managed by the hire provider |
| Flexibility | Different machines can be selected for different projects |
| Improved Reliability | Access to professionally maintained equipment |
| Compliance Support | Equipment supplied to current safety standards |
This flexibility allows businesses to choose exactly the right machine for each project without being limited by an owned fleet.
Environmental Benefits of Modern Cherry Pickers
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important across the construction, facilities management and industrial sectors. Modern cherry pickers have evolved to support these environmental objectives through improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
Electric-powered models are particularly popular for projects where environmental impact is a priority. These machines can help reduce:
- Carbon emissions
- Noise pollution
- Fuel consumption
- Air quality concerns in enclosed spaces
Many organisations now include sustainability targets within their procurement policies, making low-emission access equipment an attractive option for both public and private sector projects.
As technology continues to advance, manufacturers are developing increasingly efficient machines that deliver strong performance while supporting environmental goals.
Planning a Successful Cherry Picker Project
Careful planning can help maximise safety, efficiency and productivity when using a cherry picker.
Before equipment arrives on site, project managers should consider:
- Access routes for delivery vehicles
- Ground bearing capacity
- Working height requirements
- Potential obstructions
- Traffic management requirements
- Weather conditions
- Duration of works
- Emergency procedures
By identifying these factors early, businesses can minimise delays and ensure work proceeds smoothly.
Professional hire providers such as Access Hire UK can assist with selecting appropriate equipment based on site requirements, helping contractors and facilities managers achieve safe and efficient access to elevated work areas across a wide range of industries.