Bucket trucks are work trucks with an attached aerial work platform. Bucket trucks are necessary for forestry, telecommunications, and high elevation property maintenance. They allow workers to reach heights of over 100 ft, accessing “out of the way” spots through elevation and rotation. Bucket trucks can be outfitted with accessories such as air compressors, hotline jumper holders, and chainsaw scabbards, depending on the industry and purpose.
Cost depends on the type of bucket truck, the height of the platform, and additional features of the truck and boom. You can expect to pay anywhere from $35,000 to $500,000 for a used bucket truck.
The bests brands of bucket trucks include ALC, Versalift, Horyong, and Duralift. Bucket trucks are expensive due to their high demand and smaller supply since there are so few manufacturers.
Bucket trucks are used in various industries to lift workers and supplies into hard-to-reach areas. This includes telecommunications, landscaping, painting, window cleaning, and entertainment/photography.
The weight of a bucket truck will factor in the vehicle’s weight and the boom. Bucket trucks are heavier than boom lifts allowing them to handle a heavier weight. Bucket trucks generally can weigh anywhere from 15,000 lbs to 50,000 lbs.
The operator from within the bucket usually controls bucket controls. Before operating a bucket truck, it’s essential to place the vehicle in park and place the wheel chocks and extend the outrigger to keep the car from accidentally moving or swaying.
Bucket trucks will have a master switch, which switches the power and controls into the bucket or back to the ground operator.
Controls include: Rotation. Raising or lowering the outer boom. Raising or lowering the lower boom. Extending or retracting the inner boom.
When buying a used bucket truck, you should check the inspection report to understand its maintenance history, condition, and usage. Critical areas include the lift cylinders, hydraulic lines and controls, stabilizer legs, operator controls, operator cabin, and standard vehicle operation.
Used bucket trucks will be cheaper than newer models of comparable size and function. Newer models may still have a manufacturer’s warranty that’s transferable from one owner to the next. Unlike standard vehicles, you also have to factor in the condition of both the truck and the lift.
The average bucket operator salary in the USA is $50,700 per year or $26 per hour.
Since bucket trucks incorporate a vehicle-mounted lift, most states require certification to operate them. A driver must have a CDL to operate a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 26,000 lbs. OSHA requires bucket truck training, a written exam, and vehicle evaluation.
Dealers, manufacturers, and companies that use bucket trucks offer operation, maintenance, and safety training.
View our full guide here: https://www.boomandbucket.com/blog/how-to-become-a-heavy-equipment-operator
