Wheelchair lifts can make the task of transporting a wheelchair significantly easier. They are especially useful for people who do not have the strength or mobility to lift a manual wheelchair, and they are essential for transporting a heavy motorized wheelchair or scooter. The cost of wheelchair lifts depends on the type and size of the lift and the features it has.
Types
The two main types of wheelchair lifts for cars are inside lifts and outside lifts. Inside lifts can attach to the trunks of cars, as well as to vans and trucks, to lift a wheelchair into the back of the vehicle, like a crane. Outside lifts are platforms that attach behind a truck, van or large car and keep the wheelchair stored outside the vehicle. Inside lifts typically cost about $900 to $2,500, while outside lifts generally cost about $500 to $2,000, depending on the features and weight capacity of the lift.
Size
One of the major variables in the cost of wheelchair lifts is the weight limit of the lift. Lifts that are designed to hold heavy wheelchairs, such as electric scooters, have a lifting capacity of up to 250, 300 or even 400 lb. These lifts are generally at the high end of the price range for wheelchair lifts. Lifts that hold only compact electric scooters or manual wheelchairs have a weight capacity of 100 to 200 lb. and are generally at the lower end of the price range for wheelchair lifts.
Features
Both inside and outside lifts are available in electric and manually operated models. Electric wheelchair lifts use battery power from the vehicle to raise the wheelchair up and into the vehicle, if applicable, requiring little effort from the user. These models suit a wide variety of wheelchairs. In contrast, manual lifts are generally available only for lifting non-power wheelchairs, and the user must be strong enough and stable enough to operate it. Manual models are generally less expensive than electric models and may cost about $300 less than comparable electric lifts.
Considerations
Outside wheelchair lifts require a hitch on the back of the vehicle for the platform to attach to. Most models require a Class 2 or Class 3 hitch, which can cost about $150. Customers with an outside wheelchair lift may also want to purchase a cover to protect the wheelchair from rain or snow, since it will be mounted outside the vehicle. Manual wheelchair covers may cost about $75, while covers for electric wheelchairs and scooters cost about $100.
Expert Insight
Customers looking to purchase a wheelchair lift on a limited budget can save money by buying a used lift or by buying both a wheelchair and a lift as part of a package deal. In addition, several major car companies will reimburse up to $1,000 for the cost of a wheelchair lift for customers who have purchased or leased a car within the previous 6 to 12 months. See the American Wheelchairs website linked below for details.
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