Boom lifts are among the most widely used types of aerial work platforms across construction, maintenance, and industrial sectors. They provide safe access to elevated areas and are highly valued for their reach and flexibility. While most people focus on a boom lift’s height and load capacity, another critical performance factor is often overlooked: traveling speed.
Understanding and measuring the traveling speed of a boom lift is essential for contractors and operators who need to balance productivity, safety, and site efficiency. In this article, we will explore what traveling speed means, why it matters, how to measure it correctly, and which factors influence the results.
What is Traveling Speed in a Boom Lift?
The traveling speed (sometimes referred to as “drive speed”) of a boom lift refers to how fast the machine can move across the ground while being driven. It is usually expressed in kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph).
Boom lifts typically have two speed settings:
- Stowed/Transport Speed: This is the maximum speed a boom lift can travel when the boom is fully lowered and stowed. In this position, the center of gravity is stable, allowing for faster and safer travel.
- Elevated/Working Speed: When the boom is raised, the speed is automatically reduced for safety reasons. This prevents tipping and allows for precise maneuvering.
Most modern self-propelled boom lifts have traveling speeds ranging between 3–6 km/h (1.8–3.7 mph) when stowed and much slower (around 0.5–1 km/h) when elevated.
Why Does Traveling Speed Matter?
Traveling speed directly impacts the productivity and efficiency of a boom lift on a job site. Here’s why it is important:
- Time Efficiency – On large sites, a higher traveling speed reduces downtime when moving from one work area to another.
- Fuel and Energy Use – Faster, smoother movement means less wasted fuel or battery power.
- Safety – Measuring and controlling travel speed helps ensure operators don’t exceed safe limits, especially on uneven ground.
- Equipment Selection – When renting or purchasing a boom lift, knowing the travel speed helps determine whether the machine is suitable for the type of project.
How to Measure Traveling Speed of a Boom Lift
Measuring traveling speed is a straightforward process but must be done carefully to ensure accuracy and safety. Below is a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Prepare the Testing Area
- Choose a flat, open surface free of obstacles.
- Measure a set distance (for example, 50 meters or 100 meters) using a measuring tape, surveyor’s wheel, or laser measurement tool.
- Mark the start and finish points clearly with cones or chalk.
Step 2: Inspect the Boom Lift
- Ensure the lift is in good working condition.
- The boom must be in the stowed (fully lowered) position before testing maximum speed.
- Check tire pressure, engine, and hydraulic systems before starting.
Step 3: Record Baseline Information
- Note down the model, type (articulating or telescopic), fuel type (diesel, electric, hybrid), and load condition (with or without operator and tools).
- Traveling speed may vary slightly depending on these factors.
Step 4: Conduct the Test
- Position the boom lift at the start line.
- Engage drive mode in the highest travel speed setting.
- Start a stopwatch as the machine begins moving.
- Stop timing when the boom lift crosses the finish line.
- Record the elapsed time.
Step 5: Calculate the Traveling Speed
Use the formula:
Speed = Distance ÷ Time
- If the distance was 100 meters and the time was 60 seconds:
Speed = 100 ÷ 60 = 1.66 meters/second. - Convert to km/h: 1.66 × 3.6 = 6 km/h.
Step 6: Repeat for Accuracy
- Perform the test at least 3 times and take the average speed.
- Repeat the process with the boom slightly elevated to measure working travel speed.
Factors That Affect Traveling Speed
Several conditions can influence the measured travel speed of a boom lift:
1. Machine Type
- Telescopic boom lifts generally move faster than articulating boom lifts, which are designed for maneuverability in tight spaces.
2. Power Source
- Diesel boom lifts often have higher travel speeds than electric boom lifts, which prioritize efficiency and indoor use.
3. Ground Conditions
- Rough, muddy, or inclined surfaces can significantly reduce speed.
- Most manufacturers list speed based on flat, firm ground.
4. Load Weight
- A heavily loaded platform may slow down the machine slightly.
- Always ensure weight remains within the manufacturer’s safe limits.
5. Boom Position
- Traveling speed reduces automatically when the boom is extended for stability reasons.
6. Tire Type and Condition
- Foam-filled, solid, or pneumatic tires can affect traction and speed.
Typical Traveling Speeds of Common Boom Lifts
While speeds vary by manufacturer and model, here are average ranges:
- Electric Articulating Boom Lift (15–20m): 2–4 km/h stowed, 0.6 km/h elevated.
- Diesel Articulating Boom Lift (20–40m): 4–6 km/h stowed, 0.8 km/h elevated.
- Telescopic Diesel Boom Lift (up to 60m): 5–7 km/h stowed, 1 km/h elevated.
- Compact Crawler Boom Lift: 2–3 km/h stowed, 0.5 km/h elevated.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for precise numbers.
Safety Precautions When Measuring Travel Speed
- Only trained and certified operators should drive the boom lift.
- Keep the boom fully stowed during maximum speed tests.
- Avoid testing on public roads. Boom lifts are not designed for highway use.
- Ensure the test path is clear of pedestrians and vehicles.
- Always wear the appropriate PPE (helmets, harnesses, safety shoes).
Why Contractors Should Care About Traveling Speed
Many project managers in Dubai and across the UAE focus mainly on reach height and load capacity when renting a boom lift. However, traveling speed plays a key role in overall project efficiency:
- On large-scale construction sites, faster lifts save valuable time.
- On tight or indoor projects, slower, precise-moving lifts are safer.
- Choosing the right balance of speed and maneuverability can prevent delays and accidents.
Renting the Right Boom Lift in Dubai
At Dream Way Equipment & Machinery Rental LLC, we provide a wide range of boom lifts with different travel speeds, heights, and capacities. Whether you need a fast-moving telescopic boom lift for large construction or a precise electric articulating lift for indoor work, we can recommend the right model for your project.
Our rental fleet is:
- Regularly inspected and maintained.
- Compliant with UAE safety standards.
- Available with flexible rental options (daily, weekly, monthly).
- Supported with on-site technical assistance.
Final Thoughts
Measuring the traveling speed of a boom lift is not complicated, but it is an essential step in understanding machine performance. By preparing a safe test area, timing the travel across a measured distance, and calculating using the simple formula of distance divided by time, contractors can accurately determine travel speed.
The actual speed will depend on factors such as boom type, power source, ground condition, load, and whether the boom is stowed or elevated.
For construction and maintenance projects in Dubai, selecting the right boom lift with an appropriate travel speed can make a big difference in both productivity and safety.If you need expert advice or want to rent a boom lift tailored to your project’s requirements, Dream Way Equipment & Machinery Rental LLC is here to help.