Telescopic vs. Scissor Lift Dump Trailers: Which is Right for You?

When selecting a dump trailer, the lift system is one of the most important features to consider, as it directly impacts the trailer's performance, durability, and efficiency. Two of the most common lift system designs are telescopic lifts and scissor lifts, each offering unique benefits suited to specific hauling tasks. Understanding their differences can help you choose the best option for your needs. Here's a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Telescopic Dump Trailers

Telescopic dump trailers feature a single, front-mounted hydraulic cylinder that extends vertically, providing a direct and powerful lift.

Advantages of Telescopic Lifts:

- Adequate Lifting Capacity: The centralized hydraulic cylinder makes it suitable for typical dumping jobs like sand, dirt, gravel, and asphalt.

- Even Load Distribution: The front-mounted cylinder applies pressure evenly along the trailer frame, reducing structural strain and potentially extending the trailer's lifespan.

- Simplified Maintenance: With fewer moving parts, telescopic lifts are easier to maintain, resulting in reduced downtime and lower maintenance costs.

Scissor Lift Dump Trailers

Scissor lift dump trailers use a single cylinder between a steel hinged lifter that provides an extremely strong lift. At TrailersPlus, these trailers achieve a lift angle of up to 47 degrees, surpassing the typical 45 degrees of telescopic systems.

Advantages of Scissor Lifts:

- More favorable dump angle: The wide lifting base in the middle of the trailer lifts up to 47 degrees, and helps you remove debris faster than you would be able to with a telescopic dump trailer.

- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally more affordable than telescopic lifts, scissor lifts offer a budget-friendly option without compromising functionality.

- Durability: The distributed lift mechanism places less stress on individual components, potentially leading to longer-lasting parts and reduced wear.

Choosing the Right Lift System:

Choose a telescopic lift dump trailer for heavy-duty tasks requiring a 45 degree dumping angle. These systems are built for individuals who need a durable solution for handling evenly distributed loads.

Choose a scissor lift dump trailer when stability and cost-efficiency are priorities, and a higher dump angle of 47 degrees is needed. Scissor lifts are well-suited for landscaping, construction, and general-purpose hauling where ease of maintenance and stability are crucial. They excel in handling uneven loads while offering dependable stability and more budget-friendly options.

At TrailersPlus, we offer a comprehensive inventory of scissor lift dump trailers, with over 80 locations across the United States to serve you. For more information or to see our dump trailers in action, visit us at TrailersPlus or contact your nearest location to speak with one of our experts.