A wheelchair lift restores mobility access for individuals using wheelchairs or scooters, allowing movement between different vertical levels. Since new mobility equipment can be expensive, the used market offers a functional and cost-effective alternative. The final price of a pre-owned lift varies significantly, depending heavily on the specific type of machine and its overall condition. Understanding the marketplace, the categories of lifts available, and the factors that influence cost is the first step in making a well-informed purchase.
Categories of Used Wheelchair Lifts
The cost of a used lift is initially determined by the machinery’s design and purpose. Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs), often called porch lifts, operate similarly to small elevators, moving a person straight up and down a short distance. These units are typically used to access a deck or raised entryway and are suited for both indoor and outdoor residential applications.
Stair lifts carry the user along a staircase on a mounted rail system. This category includes straight rail models, which are common and affordable, and curved rail models. Curved rail models are custom-manufactured to the precise dimensions of a unique staircase, making them specialized equipment that is difficult to resell and repurpose.
Vehicle lifts are designed to transport a mobility device, or sometimes the occupant, into or onto a vehicle. These lifts vary widely, ranging from simple hitch-mounted carriers for scooters to complex, interior-mounted hydraulic lifts for power wheelchairs. Each type addresses a distinct mobility requirement, contributing to different starting price points in the used market.
Critical Factors Influencing Used Lift Pricing
The age and documented maintenance history of a used lift impact its resale value and reliability. A machine that has undergone certified refurbishment is priced higher than a private sale unit because it has been tested and often includes replacement of worn components. Units older than three years may pose a challenge, as manufacturers sometimes discontinue parts, complicating future repairs.
The complexity of the required installation is another cost factor, especially for permanent home solutions. Vertical platform lifts require a level, concrete pad for secure mounting and may necessitate site preparation, adding to the final expense. Inclined lifts for stairs must be precisely aligned, and any deviation from a standard straight run increases the labor and difficulty of reinstallation.
Lifts with a higher weight capacity or an oversized platform command a premium due to their heavy-duty construction. While a standard lift may accommodate 350 pounds, models rated for 500 pounds or more require more robust components. If a unit is sold through a dealer and includes a transferable limited warranty or service contract, this added peace of mind is reflected in the asking price.
Typical Price Ranges for Used Lifts
Used straight stair lifts are accessible options due to their universal design and simple track system. The unit alone typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000, offering substantial savings over a new model. This price often rises to between $2,000 and $3,800 when purchased from a dealer who includes professional installation and a short-term warranty.
Pre-owned curved or custom-track stair lifts range from $6,000 to over $10,000. Because the rail is custom-bent to a previous home’s specifications, the track often requires costly re-fabrication to fit a new staircase. A used residential Vertical Platform Lift (VPL) unit, which provides access to a porch or deck, can typically be found for $3,500 to $5,000.
Used vehicle lifts show a wide range depending on whether they are designed for an occupied or unoccupied device. Simple exterior hitch-mounted carriers for unoccupied scooters cost $500 to $1,500, but require a compatible vehicle hitch and tongue weight capacity. More complex interior platform or hoist-style lifts for power wheelchairs often cost between $1,000 and $4,000, with the final cost dependent on the complexity of mounting it inside a minivan or SUV.
Safe Purchasing and Installation of Used Equipment
Acquiring a used lift requires a focus on safety and compliance, making professional inspection and installation necessary. Mobility equipment must adhere to standards like the ASME A18.1 Safety Standard for Platform Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts. Only a certified technician can guarantee that the reinstalled unit meets these safety benchmarks.
Buyers should be aware that private sales offer the lowest prices but carry the greatest risk, as they rarely include a warranty or guarantee of operational integrity. For instance, a stair lift track that is slightly too short for the new location can lead to unexpected and costly modifications. Conversely, a certified dealer sells refurbished units that have passed a multi-point inspection, providing safety and reliability closer to a new purchase.
Before committing to a permanent installation, check with local building authorities regarding required permits and specific codes. Permanent installations like VPLs may require electrical wiring upgrades and structural modifications that must be signed off by an inspector. Failing to secure the proper permits or installation can lead to safety hazards and potential liability issues.