Inground Versus Mobile Column Automotive Lifts

Automotive lifts ensure technicians can work comfortably and clearly see issues under vehicles. Although every shop owner knows they need lifts, the challenge is knowing which ones are best for the type of work they do and their space. For example, shops that do a variety of work may need two or more types of lifts, such as a four-post lift for heavy-duty vehicles or wider, two-post models for electric vehicles.

In a previous blog, we explored some of the differences between the four-post and two-post lift types. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between two common lift types: inground and mobile column.

Inground Lifts

Inground lifts are installed on the shop floor, providing a nice, clean look. They’re also versatile and can handle most types of vehicles, including passenger cars and heavy-duty vehicles, without leaving a large footprint.

Common Features

Features will vary based on the model. General features could include:

• Lifts up to 18,000 pounds
• Configurations include single, two-post, and scissor lifts
• Drive-on ramps or adjustable lifting pads
• Hydraulic or pneumatic options are available
• Flush or surface mount design
• Mechanical and automatic locking mechanisms and systems
• Low-pressure safety valves
• Customizable for different types of vehicles and services that need to be performed
• Oil containment systems (in some models)

Average Cost

Inground lift prices range from $10,000 and up, depending on several factors, including:

• Customization options
• Vehicle capacity
• Installation complexity

Space Requirements

If you are considering one or more inground lifts, you need to account for space requirements to ensure the lift works properly. Space considerations include:

• Pit Depth: 4 to 6 feet.
• Pit Length & Width: 10 to 15 feet long and 3 to 5 feet wide for each post or platform.
• Ceiling Height: 10 to 12 feet for most inground lifts.
• Floor Thickness: A 6- to 8-inch reinforced concrete slab.
• Vehicle Clearance: 3 to 5 feet on all sides of the lift.
• Service Bay Width: 12 to 15 feet wide for technician access and safe vehicle positioning.
• Service Bay Length: 25 to 30 feet, depending on the vehicles being serviced.
• Access to Hydraulic or Pneumatic Lines and Electrical: Lines may need to be routed through the pit or floor.
• Ventilation: Enough ventilation for the buildup of solvent, hydraulic fluid, and vehicle exhaust fumes.
• Water Drainage & Oil Containment: The pit should have proper drainage. Some lifts feature oil containment systems that may take additional room.
• Access to Equipment: Additional space for hydraulic power units, control boxes, compressors, and other equipment located near the lift or in adjacent areas.

Keep in mind that some of these requirements will vary based on the model you’re considering—always be sure to account for any space requirements listed in the product brochure.

Installation Requirements

The downside to inground lifts is that they require careful planning to ensure safety and optimal performance. Key installation requirements include:

• Site Assessment & Prep: The area where the lift will be installed will need proper drainage, and the concrete must have the required thickness. If the concrete isn’t thick enough, new concrete may need to be poured and leveled.
• Pit Construction: The actual pit where the lift will be housed will need to be constructed, usually involving excavation.
• Lift Installation: Involves positioning the lift, anchoring the lift, and aligning the lift components.
• Hydraulic or Pneumatic Lines Setup: Involves installing the hydraulic or air lines and fill fluid reservoirs, if needed.
• Electrical Lines & Component Installation: Involves installing the power supply, control panel, and safety interlocks.
• Final Adjustments & Calibration: Usually involves standard operational testing, calibration, and training.
• Third-Party Inspection: An ALI-certified technician should inspect all lifts to ensure safety and compliance.
• Documentation & Record Keeping: It’s crucial to keep detailed records of the installation process, manufacturer’s guidelines, inspection reports, modification documentation, warranty documentation, and the lift’s maintenance schedule.

Mobile Column Lifts

When you need flexibility in a smaller shop or if you frequently offer roadside support, consider a mobile column lift. These lifts are 100% portable, and as long as you follow the safety guidelines, they can lift most types of vehicles, including large vehicles. They also tend to have a smaller footprint than inground lifts, so they’re ideal for shops with limited space.

Common Features

General features are:

• Portable
• Various configurations
• Compact design
• Stable platform
• Adjustable column spacing

Lifting capacities will vary based on the model, but some mobile lifts provide a capacity of up to 18,000 pounds, so there are definitely models designed for heavy-duty vehicles. Additionally, although their portability means they can be used outside, these lifts shouldn’t be used in rain, snow, or other extreme weather conditions.

Average Cost

The average cost of this type of lift ranges from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on its lifting capacity and other features.

Space Requirements

Mobile automotive lifts are versatile enough to be used in many settings, including professional shops and outdoor spaces. Space requirements include:

• Footprint: 10 to 12 feet wide and 18 to 20 feet long.
• Vehicle Clearance: 3 to 5 feet on each side.
• Ceiling Height: 10 to 12 feet.
• Floor Surface: Should be flat and level for stability.
• Concrete Floor: At least 4 inches thick.
• Power Supply: Access to a power outlet if the lift is powered by electricity.

Installation Requirements

Mobile column lifts have fewer installation requirements than inground lifts, so they can be ideal for shop owners who don’t have the time to put into an inground lift installation.

• Surface: The floor or ground must be level and solid. Leveling may be needed if there is some slope, although there may be leveling mounts that are compatible with the specific lift(s) you buy.
• Space: You will need enough space around the lift so the technicians can comfortably work on vehicles and maneuver them onto and off the lift.
• Storage Space: When not in use, the lift should be stored in an area where it won’t obstruct other activities.
• Power: You can use extension cords, but they should be heavy-duty and rated for the lift’s power needs.

Like inground lifts, you’ll also need to ensure your technicians receive training on using mobile lifts, have the lift inspected after installation for safety and compliance, and keep detailed records.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Your Existing Space

The space and layout of your shop and your needs will dictate which type of lift is best for you. Both mobile lifts and inground lifts can be compact, but mobile lifts tend to be better for limited spaces. Additionally, if you don’t want excavation to be part of the installation process, you’re better off with another lift type.

The Types of Vehicles You Service

Both types of lifts can handle heavy-duty vehicles, depending on the model and configuration. However, as a general rule, inground lifts are better for heavier and larger vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles, because they are installed in a pit and can bear greater loads. So, if you’re mostly servicing commercial vehicles, you may want to invest in an inground lift or another heavy-duty lift.

Your Service Needs & Requirements

A mobile lift could be ideal if you offer roadside assistance or often do quick services or repairs where undercarriage access isn’t always necessary. The primary appeal of a mobile lift is its mobility, making it better for shops that need a portable lift for outdoor work or to save space inside the shop. Comparatively, inground lifts are a more permanent lifting solution that could be ideal for larger shops that typically perform extensive mechanical repairs and services.

Find the Right Lift Today

There isn’t a lift type that’s inherently “the best.” It really comes down to your shop’s specific needs and space constraints, and there are more types of lifts than just inground and mobile, so you may not need either type.

If you’re not sure what type of lift you need, get help from our experts at Allied, Inc. Since our founding, we’ve helped countless shop owners across the United States find and install high-performing equipment, including automotive lifts, wheel balancers, brake lathes, and more. We can even help you plan equipment for a new shop or a space you’re upgrading, and we provide ongoing support, including ALI-certified inspections and repairs, for shop owners in Michigan and northern Ohio.

Please contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!