Types of Wheelchair Lifts

Here are the main types of wheelchair lifts and considerations when choosing the best one for your needs:

1. Exterior Wheelchair Lifts

• Description: Mounted outside the vehicle, often on the rear.
• Pros:
• Affordable and compatible with most vehicles.
• Saves interior space.
• Easy to transfer between vehicles.
• Cons:
• Leaves mobility devices exposed to weather conditions.
• Requires user ability to walk a few feet, stand briefly, and operate the lift.
• Best for: Smaller cars like sedans and users who can independently maneuver the lift.

2. Interior Wheelchair Lifts

• Description: Mounted inside the vehicle; lifts devices into the car (e.g., truck bed, van cargo area).
• Pros:
• Protects mobility devices from weather.
• Collapsible design saves interior space when not in use.
• Cons:
• More difficult to operate, requiring attachment and guidance of the device.
• May need physical assistance for easier use.
• Best for: Trucks, SUVs, and larger vehicles with extra interior space.

3. Hybrid Wheelchair Lifts

• Description: Combines features of exterior and interior lifts. The platform brings the device inside the vehicle.
• Pros:
• Offers protection from the elements.
• Easier to use compared to interior lifts.
• Requires no extensive vehicle modifications.
• Cons:
• Needs more interior space, making it ideal for vans or SUVs.
• Devices must still be tied down for stability.
• Best for: Users seeking convenience and protection with a large vehicle.

Wheelchair Lift Costs

Price Ranges

• Basic Exterior Lifts: $200 - $1,000 (manual) or $1,000 - $3,000 (powered).
• Complex Exterior Lifts: $5,000 - $10,000 for higher-end options.
• Interior Lifts: $1,000 - $3,000 (detachable).
• Van Accessibility Conversions: $10,000+ (seating removal, ramps, tie-downs).

Medicare Coverage

• Medicare Part B: Covers mobility devices like wheelchairs or scooters but does not include lifts.
• Alternative Options: Some private insurance or financing programs may assist based on medical necessity.

FAQs

• How does a scooter lift work?
• Platform lifts stay level to the ground.
• Load your scooter onto the platform.

• Use a button to secure and raise the platform.

• How do you transport a mobility scooter?

• Use a hitch-mounted scooter carrier.

• Options include manual (via ramp) or powered (electric operation).

• How does a wheelchair lift work?

• Operated with user-controlled buttons.

• Secures the wheelchair while raising/lowering the platform.

• Can I rent a van with a wheelchair lift?

• Yes! Rental costs average $125/day or $700/week, plus additional fees for mobility equipment rentals.

Consider your vehicle size, mobility needs, and budget when choosing the ideal wheelchair lift.

1. Millennium Series by BraunAbility

• Type: Side or rear entry platform.
• Weight Capacity: 750 lbs.
• Starting Price: $6,093.
• Features: Quiet-Ride system, three platform sizes (43, 47, and 51 inches), handheld/remote control, built-in diagnostic system.
• Pros:
• VA-approved and NHTSA-compliant.
• Leasing options available.
• Ideal for vans with heavy mobility devices.
• Cons:
• Limited to vans; smaller vehicles like sedans are incompatible.
• Taller platforms (47 or 51 inches) may require door and roof modifications.
• Bottom Line: Best for van users prioritizing quiet rides and versatility.

2. Bruno Curb-Sider by Bruno Independent Living Aids

• Type: Hoist-style interior lift.
• Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
• Starting Price: $2,699.
• Features: No vehicle modifications required, transferable across vehicles, side or rear entry options, weather-resistant controls.
• Pros:
• Compact, preserving interior space.
• Suitable for trucks, SUVs, and vans.
• Three-year limited warranty.
• Cons:
• Requires some physical effort to operate.
• Best suited for users with adequate dexterity.
• Bottom Line: Affordable and versatile for pickup trucks and other larger vehicles, but consider if assistance will be needed.

3. Harmar AL350 by Harmar

• Type: Exterior power lift platform.
• Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
• Starting Price: $1,295.
• Features: Customizable power supply, 27.5x39 platform, adjustable straps for stability.
• Pros:
• Budget-friendly.
• Compatible with both scooters and wheelchairs.
• Three-year transferable warranty and 30-day return policy.
• Cons:
• Limited to midsized mobility devices.
• Tie-down straps may require upgrading.
• Bottom Line: Best for affordability and basic mobility needs, though heavier devices require alternative options.

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