Cherry picker hire cost is dependent on a number of factors, which we’re going to break down for you in this article. 

If you’ve got a job on the cards that requires working at height, a cherry picker could be a good fit for you. A cherry picker is an elevated work platform (EWP) that has a vertical boom attached to a bucket. There are different types, which the Performance Tower Hire team will guide you through, depending on what you need the EWP for. 

Let’s take a look at how cherry picker hire cost is worked out. 

Is There a Standard Cherry Picker Cost?

There isn’t a standard cherry picker hire cost. Different companies will have different rates, but you can expect it to start at a few hundred dollars and climb from there. Short-term hire will obviously work out less than long-term, and larger machines and remote locations will push the overall cost higher. 

Your cherry picker hire company will be able to give you a tailored quote for the job you have in mind. Let’s take a look at the factors they’ll take into consideration to land on a figure. 

What Affects the Cost of Cherry Picker Hire?

A number of key factors influence the cost of your hire. 

Type of Cherry Picker

There are different brands, models and types of cherry pickers. Compact ones will get you into tight spaces, while larger ones can be mounted on trucks and designed to get to serious heights. The type that you need will directly affect the cost of your hire, as bigger machines will come with a higher fee. 

Height and Reach

The more cherry picker height and outreach you need, the bigger the machine. And with size comes a jump in price. A cherry picker that only needs to reach six metres could be completely different to one that needs to get 20 or 30 metres up. 

If you’re working at multiple levels, over obstacles or across gaps you’ll need a machine with extended boom reach or articulating arms. These extras bump up the capability and the hire cost.

Hire Duration

The longer your timeline on a job, the more you’re going to pay for your cherry picker hire. 

But longer hires often come with lower daily rates, so it can work out better value over time.

If you need a machine urgently, your rush job or last-minute call-out might attract premium rates. Booking ahead gives you more flexibility and could help with the price. 

Delivery Location

Distance is a big one. If your site is within the hire company’s service area you’re likely looking at standard transport costs. But if you’re further out or in a hard-to-access suburb, expect additional delivery fees.

Transporting heavy gear takes planning, so the more remote or complicated your site is, the more it’ll influence the quote.

Site Access

This isn’t about the address of the site, but more about how we get the machine into place. Is there a steep slope? Soft ground? Tight driveway? Will we need to work over buildings, fences, or other gear?

The tougher the access, the more time, planning, and possibly equipment is required. All that gets factored into the final hire price.

Weight of Load

How much are you lifting? Are you hoisting a couple of workers and a tool belt or heavy equipment and materials?

Every cherry picker has a safe weight rating. If you’re pushing the upper end, you’ll need a machine that can handle it. That means bigger gear, and could mean a higher cost. But it also means doing the job safely and efficiently. The safety of your operators is a top priority, and having a machine that supports them is essential. 

Need a Licensed Operator?

Here’s a key question: Do you have someone qualified to operate the machinery?

If not, you’ll need to hire one. The good news? At Performance Tower Hire, we include a licensed, experienced operator in every hire. 

With our wet hire service, there’s no mucking around trying to find someone last minute. No worries about insurance or safety. Just rock-solid service and a machine that turns up ready to go, with an operator who knows exactly how to use it. Performance Tower Hire has you covered. 

Contact the Brisbane Cherry Picker Hire Pros

Hiring a cherry picker doesn’t have to be complicated. But if you want to stay on budget and avoid hassles, it pays to understand what drives the cost:

• The type and size of machine 
• How high and far you need to reach 
• How long you need it for 
• Where you’re working 
• How accessible your site is 
• What you’re lifting 
• Whether you need an operator
  

Still unsure what’s right for you? Contact us at Performance Tower Hire. We’ll ask the right questions, give you an honest quote, and make sure you’re not paying for more than you need. You’ll get the right gear, a qualified operator, and no surprises on your invoice. Chat soon. 

If you’ve spent time on a job site in Brisbane or anywhere across South East Queensland, you’ve probably looked up at a massive billboard, a tall gum tree or the roof of a high‑rise and wondered, how high do those cherry pickers really go?

In this guide, you’ll find everything from how high cherry pickers can reach, their weight limits, licence requirements and key safety tips, to why choosing a local Brisbane EWP hire company like Performance Tower Hire can make a real difference.

Why Knowing Cherry Picker Reach Matters

No two jobs are the same, so you want to hire the cherry picker that suits the task at hand.

Pick a cherry picker that’s too small and you’ll end up with delays and extra expenses. Go too big and you’re stuck with a machine that’s awkward to squeeze into tight spots and costing you more than the job really needs.

If you’re just getting into this kind of work, it’s worth starting with What Are Cherry Pickers? for the basics. 

Once you’re across the basics, the next thing to figure out is just how high these machines can really go! Let’s take a look. 

How high can a cherry picker actually go? 

It comes down to the type of machine and what it’s built for. Some are made for small maintenance jobs, while others are designed to tackle serious high‑rise work.

Cherry Picker Type	Typical Platform Height	Approx. Working Height	Best For
Trailer-Mounted Boom Lift	10–15 m	12–17 m	Light maintenance, signs, and tree trimming
Medium EWP / Truck-Mounted	20–38 m	22–40 m	Commercial installations, mid-rise construction
Extensive High-Reach Machines	54 m+	56–60 m	High-rise, infrastructure, and bridge maintenance

Putting it into perspective:

• 10 m is about the height of a three-storey building
• 20 m is similar to a six-storey building
• 54 m is close to a 17-storey building

For specialised work, we can supply extra-high EWPs that reach 54 metres-plus. We call that one the penthouse! It’s ideal for large-scale industrial work, high-rise maintenance, or bridge inspections.

Working Height vs Platform Height

One common misconception is the difference between platform height and working height.

• Platform height is the distance from the ground to the floor of the platform.
• Working height is the platform height plus the average person’s reach (about 2 metres).

For example, if the platform on a cherry picker sits at 18 metres, you can usually work up to 20 metres. That extra bit of reach lets you get to higher spots without having to bring in a bigger machine.

At Performance Tower Hire, we always list the working height in our equipment specifications so you know exactly what you can reach on your job site.

Cherry Picker Hire in Brisbane and SEQ Delivered Fast

Need to work at 10 metres or even over 50 metres? We’ve got the right cherry picker for you. At Performance Tower Hire, our local team will help you choose the right machine, keep your job site safe, and get it to you on time, anywhere in Brisbane or South East Queensland.

• Quick delivery across Brisbane & SEQ
• Wet or dry hire available
• Advice on height, load limits & safe operation

Call us now or book online to get your cherry picker sorted today.

How Much Weight Can a Cherry Picker Hold?

Capacity is just as important as height when it comes to safely operating your cherry picker. The Safe Working Load (SWL) must include:

• Operators (one or two people)
• Tools and materials
• Specialist equipment

Typical SWLs range from 200 kg to 600 kg:

• 200–250 kg: One operator plus tools
• 400 kg: Two to Three persons with medium tools
• 600 kg: Three to Four persons or heavier gear

Exceeding the Safe Working Load (SWL) is unsafe, illegal, and may void your hire agreement. Chat to your cherry picker hire company about the job you’re doing so they can advise you on the right machine. 

What Affects Maximum Reach?

It is not only the cherry picker specifications that determine safe reach. Job site conditions matter too.

Machine Type

• Telescopic boom lifts are ideal for straight-up reach or long horizontal reach.
• Articulated boom lifts have jointed sections to reach over and around obstacles.

Terrain

• Rough terrain models work well outdoors on uneven ground.
• Slab‑mounted lifts work best on flat, smooth indoor floors.

Not sure which one’s right for your job? Our Boom Lift vs Cherry Picker guide breaks it down so you can compare and pick the best fit.

Horizontal Outreach

Sometimes you need to extend over rooftops, awnings, or machinery. A machine with strong horizontal reach can save you hours of repositioning.

Weather Conditions

In Brisbane and SEQ, the weather can change fast, parirculrly in those stormy summer months. 

• High winds may limit the safe operating height.
• Rain can make the ground slippery and unstable.

Do you actually need a licence for one of these?

In Australia:

• Over 11 m: You must have a High Risk Work Licence (EWP).
• Under 11 m: No formal licence, but training is still required.

If you hire a wet hire cherry picker from us, we provide a licensed operator so you do not have to worry about training or licensing.

For more details, see the official Safe Work Australia Licensing Requirements for EWPs.

When Should You Avoid Using a Cherry Picker?

In Brisbane and SEQ, avoid using a cherry picker if:

• Winds are high or storms are near
• You are working close to live power lines without proper clearance
• The ground is unstable or too uneven
• You are unsure of the SWL and risk overloading
• You do not have proper and required protection gear.

Get in touch with the Brisbane Cherry Picker Hire Experts

Performance Tower Hire has been supplying Brisbane businesses with quality cherry pickers and other EWPs for many years now. We know the conditions here inside out, and we are all experienced operators who can answer any questions you might have,

You can expect: 

• Fast delivery across Brisbane and SEQ
• Flexible wet or dry hire options
• Expert advice so you hire the right machine
• Equipment that’s been properly looked after and regularly checked.
• 24/7 emergency availability

We have been trusted for council works, high-rise maintenance, large construction, and even wildlife rescue. So when you need a cherry picker in Brisbane or SEQ, don’t gamble with your hire. Get local service, faster delivery, and expert support from the team at Performance Tower Hire.

FAQs About Cherry Picker Reach

Why does reach vary between models?
Different designs are suited to different applications.

Why is working height different from platform height?
Working height includes the operator’s reach.

Why does capacity matter?
It’s about safety and compliance — not just machine performance.

Why does terrain type affect my choice?
Because not all lifts can handle uneven ground safely.

Why hire local?
Local knowledge, faster service, and machines suited to Brisbane jobs.

On paper, hiring a cherry picker seems simple – call up a place, book the gear, and off you go. But in reality, it’s surprisingly easy to get caught out. I’ve seen seasoned tradies make rookie errors, and first-timers get blindsided by things they didn’t even know to check. The fallout? Lost hours, wasted cash, and in the worst cases, a safety scare you really don’t want.

Hiring the Wrong Type of Machinery

Figuring Out Which Cherry Picker You Actually Need

Cherry pickers aren’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Pick the wrong one, and you could be staring at a worksite wondering why you can’t even start. There are a few main types you’ll run into:

• Telescopic Cherry Pickers – Straight up and down, great for hitting those high spots directly overhead. Perfect for roof repairs or fixing power lines.
• Articulating Boom Lifts – These bend and pivot, making them perfect for weaving around obstacles to reach awkward spots.
• Spider Lifts – Lightweight and nimble, these can squeeze into spaces you’d never expect a lift to fit.
• Truck-Mounted Cherry Pickers – Fast to set up, easy to move from site to site—this is the kind we specialise in at Performance Tower Hire.

If you’re not sure, don’t just guess. A quick chat with someone who knows their gear (or even a peek at our guide comparing boom lifts and cherry pickers) can save you from a lot of hassle later.

Misjudging the Height You Need

One of the biggest mistakes is miscalculating how high your cherry picker needs to reach. Cherry pickers vary significantly, from 16m up to 54m. Selecting equipment with insufficient height could halt your job altogether.

Before contacting a hire service, measure from the ground up and add a few metres for safety and mobility. If you’re unsure, Performance Tower Hire can provide expert guidance; visit our page for more information on the maximum reach of a cherry picker.

Not Planning the Job Properly

Know Your Job Inside Out

One mistake people make all the time is not nailing down exactly what they need the cherry picker for. If your plan’s loose or you’ve left out the details, you could find yourself hanging onto the machine longer than you thought and burning through your budget in the process.

Clearly outline:

• Tasks to be completed
• Time needed
• Number of workers involved

Proper planning helps you choose the right machine, avoiding expensive overtime or rehire scenarios.

Using Equipment for the Wrong Purpose

Cherry pickers are made for getting people up where they need to work, not for hauling heavy stuff or pretending they’re cranes. Pile on too much weight or use them the wrong way and you’re setting yourself up for trouble. That’s when accidents happen, gear breaks, and repair bills start stacking up. Use the machine for what it’s built for and you’ll keep the site safe and everything running as it should.

Poor Site Access Planning

Check Your Site First

You finally get the cherry picker delivered, only to find it can’t even make it to the job site. Maybe the driveway’s too tight, power lines are hanging low, or the ground’s too rough. Any one of those can throw your whole plan off before you even start.

Avoid this scenario by:

• Checking entry widths and heights
• Noting overhead obstructions like trees and power lines
• Considering terrain stability and ground firmness

If you have questions about access, our experienced team at Performance Tower Hire can help you assess the site beforehand, avoiding costly mistakes.

Ignoring Safety Protocols

Never treat safety as an optional extra. If you skip the pre-checks or ignore risks like low-hanging power lines or soft, uneven ground, you’re gambling with more than just the job; you’re risking lives. It only takes one overlooked detail for something to go badly wrong.

Always:

• Check the machine over before you start work
• Use the right fall protection gear
• Follow the safety rules from start to finish

Safety underpins everything we do at Performance Tower Hire. If safety’s your priority too, you might appreciate our article on the benefits of hiring a cherry picker, which highlights the safety advantages.

Underestimating the Cost

Budget Realistically

Hiring a cherry picker can be great value, but if you guess your hire period wrong or forget about extra costs, your budget can blow out faster than you expect.To prevent unexpected costs, factor in:

• The duration of hire is accurately
• Operator costs (if applicable)
• Delivery and setup fees

Always ask for a full quote before you commit. If you want a better idea of what to expect, check out our detailed guide on cherry picker hire costs.

Letting Someone Without a Licence Operate the Machine

Elevated work platforms can only be run by licensed, properly trained operators. Handing the controls to someone without the right ticket is not only illegal but can also lead to big fines and, even worse, serious injuries.

Skipping Pre-Rental Inspections

Check Before You Start

Plenty of people jump straight in without giving the machine a proper once-over first. That quick check matters; a small fault you miss at the start can snowball into a big, costly problem later.

Always inspect:

• Controls and safety mechanisms
• Hydraulic hoses and connections
• Platform stability and anchor points

All Performance Tower Hire equipment is rigorously inspected and maintained, giving you peace of mind every time.

Overloading the Platform

There’s a good reason cherry pickers come with weight limits. Push past them and you could tip the whole thing over or wreck the equipment. Follow the load limits and you’ll keep both yourself and everyone nearby out of harm’s way.

How to Avoid These Mistakes

The best way to dodge all these hassles is to hire from a company you know you can rely on. At Performance Tower Hire, we’ve built a name as one of Brisbane’s trusted cherry picker hire teams. We know the gear, we know the jobs, and we make it easy to get what you need without the stress.

Whether you’re after a simple dry hire or need a fully operated machine, we can match the hire to your project. Our cherry picker hire service is available around the clock, ready to give you straight-up advice and help keep your work moving without delays or surprise costs.

Hiring a Cherry Picker? Speak to Performance Tower Hire Today

Don’t risk wasted time, blown budgets, or safety scares. At Performance Tower Hire, we’ll match you with the perfect machine for your job, handle the hard stuff, and keep your project moving without costly surprises.

Call us now on 1300784473 and let’s get your job done right the first time.

FAQ Section

Why do people hire the wrong type of cherry picker?

Usually due to a lack of clarity about their project’s specific requirements. Talking to a professional can clear this up.

Why is misjudging the required height a common mistake?

Because people often guess instead of measuring accurately. Precise measurements ensure the right equipment choice.

Why don’t people always plan the actual work thoroughly?

A lot of folks go in thinking the job will be faster or simpler than it actually is. But if you put in the work to plan it properly from the start, things tend to run more smoothly and you’re less likely to blow the budget.

Why is using a cherry picker incorrectly risky?

The equipment can get damaged, its a safety issue, and you can end up with bills and legal issues you really don’t want. 

Why does insufficient site access cause issues?

If you don’t plan access properly, you can end up with machines stuck on the sidelines, wasting time and money while the site sits idle.

Why do some neglect safety protocols when hiring equipment?

Usually due to rushing or complacency, both of which are dangerous.

Why do projects underestimate the total hire cost?

They often forget about additional fees like delivery or operators.

Why do unlicensed operators sometimes get involved?

Often due to cost-saving attempts, but this is unsafe and illegal.

Why are pre-rental inspections skipped?

Usually due to assumptions about equipment reliability, but inspections prevent surprise issues.

Why do people overload the cherry picker platform?

Overloading happens when users ignore or misunderstand the equipment’s load capacity, creating dangerous situations.

For tradies, maintenance crews, and even DIYers, the decision of whether to hire or buy their equipment is always there. It’s no different when it comes to cherry pickers.

Buying comes with significant outlays, ongoing maintenance, and the risk of owning the wrong type for the job. That’s where cherry picker hire comes in. It’s flexible, cost‑effective, and keeps your work moving without the headaches of ownership.

This guide walks you through why hiring a cherry picker often makes more sense than buying one, the perks that come with it, and how teaming up with a local outfit like Performance Tower Hire can make the whole thing a breeze.

Why Hiring a Cherry Picker Beats Owning One

Not all cherry pickers are built the same. Some shoot straight up, like telescopic booms. Others, like knuckle booms, bend and weave around awkward spots. You’ve got compact ones that squeeze into tight spaces, and truck‑mounted rigs you can roll from one site to the next. The catch with buying? You’re locked into that one machine, even if your next job calls for something totally different.

Hiring gives you flexibility. You select the right cherry picker for each job without being locked into a single machine. You don’t have to worry about it losing value, taking up storage space, or costing a fortune in repairs.

If you’re not sure which type you need, our cherry picker guide gives you a quick look at the options and how they work.

Safety You Can Rely On

Working at height isn’t something you take chances with. Everything we send out has been looked over, tested, and ticked off against Australian safety standards before it gets anywhere near your job.

You can also go for wet hire, which is the cherry picker with a trained operator, so you’re not stuck sorting licences, permits, or training. Work can start right away without waiting for paperwork or licences to clear.

Using a cherry picker is usually safer than climbing scaffolding or ladders, as it cuts the risk of falling and makes it easier to follow safety rules.

Check out our article on the mistakes people often make when hiring a cherry picker for more tips.

Why does hiring a cherry picker improve safety on-site?

Because you’re working with equipment that experts maintain and, if needed, operate by trained professionals who know precisely how to use it safely.

Save Time and Keep Your Budget in Check

Cherry pickers aren’t cheap to buy. And once you own one, you’re paying for insurance, servicing, storage, and transport. Hiring takes all of that off your plate.

With Performance Tower Hire, your cherry picker is delivered to the site when you need it, ready to go. There’s no downtime while you move equipment around or sort out maintenance. You get on with the job.

Hiring is also ideal for short‑term or seasonal work where buying wouldn’t make financial sense. You can see how hiring costs stack up in our guide on the cost of hiring a cherry picker.

More Manoeuvrable for Tight or Awkward Spots

Not every job site is a wide‑open space. Sometimes you’re working in a narrow laneway, up against a wall, or inside a warehouse.

Cherry pickers, exceptionally compact and knuckle boom models, can get into tight access areas where scaffolding or big lifts just won’t fit. Self-drive and truck-mounted options also make it easier to move between job sites without incurring the expense of transport arrangements.

Work Faster with the Right Gear

A cherry picker can turn a day‑long setup into a job that starts within minutes. You can quickly change working heights, swing into position with ease, and tackle multiple spots without needing to come down to move equipment.

Bring in a qualified operator and the whole job flows quicker. You spend less time waiting around, get it finished sooner, save on labour, and stay on schedule.

Why do cherry pickers increase work efficiency?

Because they let you move, adjust, and work at height without constant stops and starts.

Flexibility to Suit Every Job

Need a cherry picker for a couple of days? A week? A few months? Hiring gives you control over how long you’ve got the equipment on site.

You can match the lift to the job, choosing a telescopic for big heights, a knuckle for tricky spots, or a compact model for indoor work.

Not sure on the size? Have a look at our quick guide on how high different cherry pickers can go.

Eco‑Friendly Options

Electric cherry pickers work well indoors or in neighbourhoods where you want to keep noise and fumes down. They’re quiet, don’t give off exhaust on site, and suit places where you need to keep disruption low.

Why are electric cherry pickers eco‑friendly and quieter?

Because they run on battery power rather than diesel, cutting both emissions and noise.

When to Call Performance Tower Hire

Performance Tower Hire isn’t a big faceless rental chain. We’re a small business with a focus on personal service, expert advice, and flexible hire options. You’re dealing with a team that knows the gear, values safety, and delivers service you can count on.

We cover South East Queensland and offer both wet and dry hire. Whether you need gear for construction, signage, tree work, electrical, plumbing, or telecommunications, we have the right equipment and the right people to help.

We’re available 24/7 for urgent jobs and can have your cherry picker on site fast. Get in touch today! 

FAQ – Quick Answers

Why go for a cherry picker instead of scaffolding? 

You can set it up fast, change the height without fuss, and avoid all the slow, fiddly build work scaffolding needs.

Why does rental include maintenance and compliance?

The equipment is safe, meets all the legal requirements, and is ready when you need it.

Why does using a cherry picker require proper operator training?

It keeps everyone on-site safe and ensures efficient operation.

Why choose self‑drive cherry pickers for short‑term projects?

They’re easy to transport and ideal for smaller jobs where you don’t need an operator full‑time.

If you’ve ever worked at height, you know how fast a little slip-up can turn into something serious. This guide breaks down what you really need to know about how to be safe when using a cherry picker. These are simple, real-world tips that will make a difference. 

Please note that this article is intended to give you a brief guide of the things you need to do and what you need to consider in order to be safe when using cherry pickers. It should not be used as a replacement to training or as an instruction manual for unlicensed operators.

Safety While Using Cherry Pickers

If you’re asking about ‘How to Be Safe When Using a Cherry Picker?’, start by spotting where most jobs go wrong and build your plan from there. Cherry pickers are incredibly useful, but there will always be risks when working at heights. Solid planning, the right gear, and a steady approach significantly reduce these.

Performance Tower Hire operates a safety-first setup with well-maintained truck-mounted EWPs ranging from 16 metres to 54 metres. Safety is paramount to us, so if you ever have any questions, please ask! 

Use Only Licensed Operators

Safety when using a Cherry Picker begins with relying on competent operators. In Queensland, boom-type EWPs above 11 metres require a High Risk Work Licence. For smaller booms and scissor lifts, operators should have current competency for the class they’re using. If your crew is short on tickets, consider wet hire with a qualified operator to ensure the job gets carried out as it should. 

Why proper training matters

Good training gives operators real-world skills and sharpens their eye for hazards. Someone who’s been properly trained knows how to read the ground, follow load limits without second-guessing and handle the controls. That improves your risk profile. 

Using the Right Machinery

A big part of cherry picker safety is matching the machine to the job. Height, horizontal outreach, basket capacity, and access all matter. Pick a cherry picker that’s too small, and you’ll probably find yourself stretching further than you should. Go too big, and you might have trouble maneuvering into tight spots, not to mention paying extra for lift power you’ll never use.

For a quick guide to picking the correct height and outreach, see how high can a cherry picker reach?

Check Access Requirements

Part of cherry picker safety is establishing the work zone you will be operating in. Before the truck arrives, look at the approach route, gate widths, overhead branches, parked cars, and underground services. Confirm there’s enough firm, sufficiently stable ground for the cherry picker setup, and allow room for outriggers and stabilisers. 

Plan traffic control if you’re on a busy street: post barriers and signage to keep the public out of your drop zone.

Conduct Risk Assessment

If you want ‘How to Be Safe When Using a Cherry Picker’ to be more than a slogan, write a risk list before the truck arrives. Walk the site and record your identified risks. Note overhead power lines, soft ground, nearby trenches, wind exposure, and weather. Identify rescue routes and a spot for a ground operator. 

Go through the manufacturer’s manual and figure out the machine’s limits. Keep the weight of your operator plus their tools and materials well below it, leaving some room to spare. 

Pre-Operation Inspection and Equipment Checks

A consistent pre-operation inspection is essential to being safe when using a cherry picker. A quick once-over isn’t enough – instead, run through a thorough pre-use checklist from top to bottom. Keep an eye out for things like hydraulic leaks, worn hoses, loose bolts, tyre damage, or any cracks in the welds. 

Clean the platform floor, check your lanyard and boom lift harness anchorage, test the horn, and make sure you have radios. Test tilt alarm functionality. Make sure the emergency stop buttons actually work, and double-check the lowering procedure and any interlocks. You want to know all that stuff’s ready to go before you’re up in the air, not when you’re already in a sticky situation.

Small habits prevent big headaches. These steps all help avoid picker cherry accidents and maintain elevated work platform safety.

Wear your PPE

PPE is extremely important – trust us, this is for a reason. Strap on a full-body harness and clip it to the platform’s anchor point with a short lanyard, it’s there to keep you inside the rails. Throw on a hard hat, eye protection, gloves, and some solid boots with decent grip. And whatever you do, keep both feet planted on the deck. 

Emergency Procedures

Know how to stop the cherry picker operations quickly and come to a safe stop. Locate the emergency stop buttons at the ground and platform controls. Run through the emergency lowering procedure with your team a couple of times. Hopefully you won’t need to implement them in a real life scenario, but if you do you’ll be glad you practiced them. 

Ensure clear communications between the ground team and operators in the basket. Radios can prove invaluable here. 

Have a rescue plan that covers a power failure, a medical event in the basket, and a machine fault. Put the plan in the site induction and brief everyone. These are the cherry picker emergency procedures that matter when it all goes wrong.

Environmental Awareness

Weather calls are a big part of being safe when using a cherry picker. Wind, rain, and lightning change your risk picture. If gusts pick up, stop and lower the platform. Avoid operating in storms or poor visibility. Before you set up, take a few minutes to clear out any debris, cover holes or pits, and get rid of anything that could trip someone up. 

A tidy site isn’t just nice to look at, it seriously cuts down the chances of an accident and keeps your path clear for moving around safely.

Hire for the Right Amount of Time

Booking enough time when hiring a Cherry Picker removes time pressures. Short hire windows push crews to rush. Make sure there’s enough time for delivery, setup, a toolbox talk, and a steady pace on the tools. Chat to the PTH team about the job at hand and we’ll help guide you to the correct hire time. The right booking length reduces stress and cuts mistakes. 

If you’re weighing up options, this guide to cherry picker hire cost in Brisbane will help you plan.

How to Ensure Complete Safety When Hiring a Cherry Picker

You want to go with the right hire company when it comes to cherry picker safety. At Performance Tower Hire, we live and breathe EWPs, so you know you’re getting a machine that has been impeccably maintained. You get modern, well-maintained machines, a friendly crew, and the flexibility to choose wet or dry hire. We’re on call 24/7, so you can speak with a real person and get the right machine moving quickly. 

Performance Tower Hire is ready to help with fast advice, quality gear, and operators who care about doing it right. 

Ready to book? View Cherry Picker Hire services for Brisbane and SE QLD.

Cherry Picker Safety FAQs

Why does the ground need to be level and solid?

If the ground isn’t firm and flat, the whole machine ends up rocking around and just doesn’t stay steady.

Why wear a harness and PPE every time?

Because if the basket jolts, that harness is what keeps you inside. And the basics, hard hat, eye protection, gloves, save you from grit in the eyes or stuff falling from above.

Why follow the manufacturer’s load limits?

Because those limits are about stability, not convenience. Overloading adds stress, reduces your safety margin, and can actually cause the platform to fail.

Why should emergency rescue procedures be in place?

Because if something happens, seconds matter. A team that’s practiced knows exactly how to get the basket down fast and help whoever’s inside.

Why keep an eye on the weather?

Because wind, rain, or lightning can completely change how the machine handles. If you’re watching the weather, you can call a pause before it becomes dangerous.

Why clear the site of obstacles and debris first?

Because loose gear and rubble are just accidents waiting to happen. A tidy site makes it easier to move safely and keeps everyone out of the drop zone.

Why not leave the cherry picker unattended while it’s raised?

Because people can wander underneath or accidentally knock the controls. Bringing it down during breaks keeps those surprises from happening.

Using a cherry picker in Queensland isn’t just about being comfortable behind the controls. There’s a high chance you need a license to operate it, too. Whether you need one depends on a few things: the height of the machine, the training you’ve had, and the kind of hire setup you’re working with.

Not sure if you need a licence for the job? Here’s the deal, straight up no fluff, no confusing terms, just what you need to know.

EWP Licence Basics in Queensland: What You Need to Know

Under 11 Metres: Yellow Card Training

If the cherry picker or boom lift you’re using goes up to 11 metres or less, here’s some good news, you don’t need a High Risk Work licence. That said, it’s not a free pass to just jump in and start operating. You still need to know what you’re doing and take the right safety steps.

You still need to be adequately trained. That’s where the EWPA Yellow Card comes in.

The Yellow Card is recognised across Australia as a form of verification that you’ve been trained in using different types of elevated work platforms (EWP). 

The Yellow Card serves as proof that you’ve received proper training and know how to handle the machine safely. Even if the law doesn’t always ask for it, almost all employers will, especially when safety or insurance is on the line. It’s one of those things that helps keep everyone covered.

Over 11 Metres: HRW Licence WP Class Required

If the cherry picker has a platform height over 11 metres, you’ve crossed into high-risk work territory.

To operate that kind of gear, you’ll need a High Risk Work licence with the WP class. No shortcuts here, it’s a legal requirement under Queensland law.

To get your HRW licence, you’ll need to:

• Do training through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
• Demonstrate competence in a theoretical and practical assessment that proves you understand and can operate the machine and work safely
• Lodge a licence application through Workplace Health and Safety Queensland

These rules aren’t there just to make life harder. When you’re that high up, the risks are real. Working near power lines, on the side of a busy road, or in bad weather – the risks add up.

If you’re unsure how high your job might take you, check out our guide on how high a cherry picker can reach, it’s a good starting point before choosing your gear or training path.

What Happens If You Don’t Have the Right Licence?

If you get caught operating a boom over 11 m without the proper licence, the fines can sting, both for you and your employer. And what if an accident is involved? Expect serious legal and financial trouble. It’s not worth the risk.

Why Does Height Matter?

More height = more danger. The higher you’re working, the tougher it is to react if something goes wrong. A sudden fault at 12 metres is a much bigger deal than the same problem at six metres.

That’s why Queensland draws a clear line at 11 m. Below that, training is strongly recommended. Above that, the law requires you to be fully licensed.

Are There Age Restrictions on Obtaining Your Yellow Card?

Yes there are. You can start Yellow Card EWP training at 16. That means younger workers can get trained and ready early, but there’s a catch. If you’re under 18, chances are you’ll need someone keeping an eye on you while you’re on site. That’s mostly because companies and insurers usually want operators to be 18 or older before they’re trusted to run the equipment solo.

If you haven’t used a cherry picker before, it’s worth getting familiar with the safety stuff early on. That matters even more if you’re learning while on the job or there’s someone guiding you through it.

Why are there restrictions for under-18s?

It’s all about making sure things stay safe. Using an EWP takes sharp judgment and quick thinking, and that kind of instinct usually comes with a bit of time on the tools. The rules are really just there to help younger operators ease into it without being thrown in the deep end.

Why Must Training Be Done Through an RTO?

RTOs are nationally accredited to provide training that meets industry standards. They don’t just hand out certificates, they assess you against the current standards and make sure you’re ready for the job.

Do SafeWork or WorkCover Require Licenced Operators?

Yes, if you’re operating over 11 m or on high-risk job sites, you must be licensed, and able to show proof of that training.

Do You Need a Licence to Operate Equipment Hired from Performance Tower Hire?

Not if you go with wet hire.

Performance Tower Hire gives you two straightforward options:

• Dry hire – You rent the equipment and bring your licensed operator. This option is ideal if you already have trained personnel on-site.
• Wet hire – You get both the machine and one of Performance Tower Hire’s experienced, fully licenced operators.

So, What’s the Best Option?

If you’re not licenced, or don’t want the stress of sorting tickets and compliance, wet hire is hands-down the more straightforward path. The operators are knowledgeable about the gear, understand job site hazards, and are trained to handle high-risk work safely and efficiently.

It’s beneficial for short-term projects or teams that don’t regularly operate elevated work platforms. Rather than spend time organising training or risk falling short of compliance, you get a qualified expert who shows up, gets the job done, and keeps your team safe.

Performance Tower Hire’s wet hire services are also handy if you’re working at height over 11 m and can’t spare someone with a WP class licence. We tick the compliance box for you.

Looking to keep your crew focused on the actual work, not bogged down by red tape? Wet hire delivers peace of mind, speed, and safety without the licensing headache.

Contact Performance Tower Hire

Performance Tower Hire is a Brisbane local, looking after working-at-height jobs all across South East Queensland. Our gear is reliable and impeccably maintained, and our team are friendly, professional and easy to deal with. 

Whether you need a 16m cherry picker for tight access work, or a 54 m truck-mounted EWP for serious height, our fleet covers the lot. Our gear is fully insured, safety-checked and ready for action 24/7.

Check out our cherry picker hire options here.

Conclusion

So, do you need a licence to operate a cherry picker? If it’s over 11 m, yes. Under 11 m? Maybe not legally, but you still need to know what you’re doing.

What do you need? The team at Performance Tower Hire is always ready to talk through your options and help you get set up, licence or a licence.

Need help right now? Get in touch. You’ll speak to someone who knows their stuff and gets straight to the point.

FAQs: Cherry Picker Licensing Questions You Might Still Have

Why is a licence needed to operate a cherry picker?

It demonstrates your competence, training, and compliance, essential on regulated job sites.

Why is maintaining competency part of licence renewal?

Licences are only valuable if you stay up to date. Refresher training keeps your knowledge sharp.

Why is proof of licence or a Yellow Card necessary on-site?

It’s how employers and inspectors know you’re approved to operate the equipment safely.

Why does Yellow Card training suffice under 11 m?

Because it’s nationally recognised and matches the risk level of shorter lifts.

Why does SafeWork demand licensed operators for HRW?

To reduce risks and ensure operators understand their responsibilities in high-risk environments.

If you’ve ever looked up at a sign install or a roof repair and wondered what cherry pickers are and why tradies rely on them, this guide is for you. A cherry picker is a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP/EWP) with a hydraulic boom and a platform or bucket that safely lifts workers and tools to height. Once used in orchards, today they’re essential in construction, maintenance, utilities, arboriculture, signage, and events because they combine reach, safety, and efficiency.

Performance Tower Hire provides wet and dry hire across Brisbane and South East Queensland with a fleet ranging from 16 m to 54 m. If you need advice or pricing, get in touch with our expert team!

How a Cherry Picker Works

They use hydraulics to lift a platform or bucket, handy for spots you couldn’t get to safely otherwise. The layout might vary, but the basics don’t change much.

• Base/Chassis: Some can drive themselves around the site. Others sit on a truck so you can roll straight to the next job.
• Turntable/Turret: They spin a full 360 on most models, handy when you don’t want to keep shifting position.
• Boom: You’ve got two main kinds, articulated booms, which bend to get over stuff, and straight booms that just reach right out.
• Controls: There are controls up top and on the ground, with extras like emergency controls and safety switches built in.
• Fall protection points: There are anchor points built in so operators can clip on their harnesses.

Power Options

• Electric cherry pickers:  They’re compact and don’t make a racket or stink the place up, so they’re good for indoors, think warehouses, shops, or fit-outs. They are also good for night works where noise is a consideration.
• Diesel cherry pickers:  More power, more runtime, and built for tough conditions, perfect for jobs out in the open.

Height and Outreach

They all top out at different heights and reach. Ours go from 16 to 54 metres, so whether it’s a small job or a big multi-storey setup, you’re covered.

Types of Cherry Pickers

Different jobs call for different machines. Here are the most common types you’ll run into:

Articulated (Knuckle) Boom

These ones bend in a few spots, so the platform can get up and over things, handy for tight spots like over roofs, past awnings, or through trees. You’ll usually see the electric ones used inside, while diesel’s better for outdoors.

Telescopic Boom Lifts

These extend straight out, making them solid for things like installing big signage, working on bridges, or setting steel, any job where you need to go long without stuff in the way.

Truck-Mounted EWPs

Truck-mounted models are easy to move from site to site. They’re a go-to for power, comms, and sign teams who need to knock out a bunch of jobs without wasting time.

Compact & Indoor Models

These little units are slim enough to get through regular doorways and tight aisles. Great for inside spots where there’s not much room, and you don’t want loud engines or exhaust in the air.

Scissor Lifts vs Cherry Pickers

Scissor lifts just go up and down and give you a bit more room to move, good for ceilings or grabbing stock off high racks. Cherry pickers can reach out and around, so they’re better when you’ve got to reach over stuff.

Want the full breakdown? Check out the piece on how boom lifts and cherry pickers stack up.

Common Uses of Cherry Pickers

Practical cherry pickers cover a wide range of industries and tasks:

Construction and Maintenance

If you need to get up high for things like cleaning windows, painting, sealing, or roof work, a cherry picker’s the way to go. On reno jobs, they’re quicker than setting up a full scaffold.

Electrical and Telecoms

Utility crews use cherry pickers for all sorts of stuff, fixing power lines, swapping out streetlights, or working on comms gear up poles or buildings. The truck-mounted ones are easy to shift so that crews can hit a bunch of sites in a day.

Signage and Events

Cherry pickers get used for all sorts of installs, billboards, shopfront signs, and even stadium lights. Event crews use them for hanging lights and sound gear, and sometimes for camera rigs at concerts or shoots.

Arboriculture

They’re common with arborists and council crews for trimming, storm jobs, or cutting out dangerous limbs. Safer than dragging a saw up a tree. They even get used for wildlife rescues when nests are out of reach.

Emergency Access

In a pinch, storms, fires, rescues, and cherry pickers get crews up high quickly. They’re steady too, which is why emergency teams keep them on hand.

Benefits of Using Cherry Pickers

Key benefits of cherry pickers on site include:

Safer access than scaffolding

Cherry pickers give you a steady platform with tie-off points, so there’s less chance of slipping. It’s a much safer and more seamless process than building scaffolding and clambering up it to work on a job.

Faster setup and repositioning

Setting up a cherry picker once it’s on site takes no time at all. When you’re done with one spot, transportation to the next site is easy and efficient. 

Higher productivity

Because they reach up and out, you can also reach a bunch of spots without moving the machine. That means less mucking around and more work done in the same day.

Flexibility across environments

Whether it’s small electrics for inside work or big truck-mounted rigs for rough ground, there’s a cherry picker to match. That’s why you see them everywhere, from construction sites to sign jobs, tree work, and telecoms.

Cost efficiency

When you hire a cherry picker, you get exactly the machine you need for that job. There’s no wasted money on equipment sitting idle. Plus, you skip the upkeep, storage, and big purchase cost.

For details on what influences hiring rates, see How Much Does Cherry Picker Hire Cost?

Safety Requirements in Australia

Cherry pickers are considered high-risk gear, so site leads and operators have to follow the rules, planning, training, and safe use.

Key Safety Steps

• Pre-start checks: Test all controls, emergency-lowering, brakes, tyres, guardrails, and interlocks. Record findings in the logbook and tag out any faults.
• Ground assessment: Confirm surface strength, slope, and underground services. Throw pads under the outriggers if the ground calls for it, and keep away from sketchy spots, edges, pits, that sort of thing.
• Exclusion zones: Put up signs or barriers so cars and people don’t wander into the work zone. Use traffic control on public roads.
• Overhead hazards: Before you start, scan the area for hazards like wires, trees, or nearby edges. If it’s risky, stay back or call the utility to cut it.
• Weather limits: Keep within the machine’s wind rating. Watch for gusts, rain, and lightning. Measure wind where the platform is working, not just at ground level.
• Harness use: Clip to approved anchor points in the basket of the cherry picker. Adjust the lanyard length to prevent ejection. Follow site rules for scissor lifts.
• Load management: Stay within the platform’s rated capacity (people + tools)—secure materials; never climb guardrails or use ladders in the basket.
• Spotter and communication: Use a trained spotter in public or congested areas. Agree on hand signals or radio calls before starting.

Licences and Training

• A High Risk Work (WP) licence is required for boom-type EWPs with a boom length of 11 m or more.
• For smaller machines, operators still need proof of competency. The EWPA Yellow Card is a widely accepted training for common EWP categories.
• Keep copies of licences and competency records on site.

Check out our comprehensive article on whether a license is required for cherry picker use.

Planning and Documentation

• Sort out a SWMS/JSEA that spells out the risks, how you’re managing them, what to do in a rescue, and who’s on each job.
• Make sure the operator’s manual stays in the machine. Make sure emergency numbers and the site address are easy to find.
• Confirm permits where needed (after-hours works, road occupancy, power isolation).

Emergency Readiness

• Have a rescue plan before elevating. At least one person on the ground must be able to operate the ground controls.
• Check that emergency-lowering devices are working and reachable.
• Keep first aid gear close to the work area.

Inspection, Maintenance, and Records

• Complete daily pre-starts and keep a logbook in the machine.
• Schedule periodic inspections by a competent technician and retain service records.
• Remove from service immediately if defects are found, and label the machine “out of use” until repaired.

Avoiding Mistakes

A lot of mistakes come down to simple stuff, ordering the wrong size, forgetting to check the ground, or setting up under wires.

For practical tips, see Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Cherry Picker.

How to Choose the Right Machine?

Picking a cherry picker? Keep these points in mind so you don’t run into headaches on the job.

• Height and outreach: Think about how high the work is and whether obstacles will get in your way.
• Site conditions: Check the ground before you set up, for a solid footing, not much slope, and enough room to get through the gates or doors.
• Power source: Electric ones are better indoors or anywhere you need them to be quiet. Diesel’s the go for outside jobs and rough ground.
• Capacity: Don’t forget to count the weight of whoever’s in the bucket, plus their gear and materials.
• Hire type: Wet hire, where you get an operator, makes sense for tricky jobs. Dry hire’s fine if you’ve already got licensed people who know the gear.

Need help choosing? The Cherry Picker Hire Brisbane team can match the right machine to your site and task.

Wrap-Up 

What Are Cherry Pickers and Which One Do You Need?

By now, you’ve got the gist, cherry pickers are a safer way to get work done at height. Whether it’s a small electric for warehouses, a straight boom for long reach, or a truck unit for moving site to site, picking the right one keeps the job running smoother.

If you’re in Brisbane or South East Queensland, contact Performance Tower Hire for expert guidance and dependable equipment.

FAQs

Why are cherry pickers used in construction and maintenance?

They get you up high quicker and safer than messing around with ladders or scaffolding.

Why should businesses hire instead of buy?

Hiring avoids ownership costs and allows you to use the right machine for each job. 

Why are electric cherry pickers popular indoors?

They are compact, quiet, and safe for enclosed environments.