If you’ve spent any time in industries like construction, facilities maintenance, tree care, or even warehousing, you know how critical MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms) are for getting work done safely and efficiently. As someone who’s supplied these machines for over a decade, I’ve seen first-hand how a single misstep in storage can turn a reliable piece of equipment into a costly, dangerous liability. A couple years back, a regular customer of mine – a small general contractor – tried to cut corners by parking their scissor lift outdoors through a rainy winter. By spring, the unit’s hydraulic system was corroded beyond repair, and they had to shell out 70% of the cost of a new lift to fix it. That’s the kind of avoidable mistake I want to help you skip. Storing MEWPs properly isn’t just about keeping machines looking good – it’s about extending their lifespan, reducing downtime, and keeping your worksite (and your budget) safe. Let’s break down exactly how to do it right, from pre-storage prep to long-term care. MEWPs
First, the foundation of good MEWP storage starts before you even park the machine. You can’t just turn off the key and walk away – pre-storage prep addresses the biggest threats to MEWPs when they’re idle: moisture, dust, battery degradation, and mechanical wear. Let’s start with the most obvious but often overlooked step: clean the machine thoroughly. Dirt, mud, and debris can trap moisture against metal parts, leading to rust, and clog moving components like hydraulic cylinders or pivot joints. For example, a cherry picker used for tree work will sap pine sap that hardens if left untouched, gumming up the lift’s extension arms. Take a low-pressure washer (avoid high-pressure, which can force water into electrical connections or seals) to blast off caked-on grime, paying extra attention to wheel hubs, undercarriage, and the base frame. After washing, dry every surface completely – even small puddles in corners can turn into rust spots over a few months. Don’t forget the basket: if it’s made of steel, wipe it down and check for small dents or tears that could hold water. For aluminum baskets, a gentle wipe with a mild detergent will cut through any grease or sap without corroding the metal.
Next, prepare the hydraulic and fuel systems, since these are the workhorses of your MEWP, and neglecting them during storage is a top cause of breakdowns. If you’re storing a diesel-powered MEWP, add a fuel stabilizer to the tank before you put it away. Diesel goes bad in as little as 30 days when left sitting, especially in warm temperatures, leading to clogged fuel filters, injector damage, and that same corrosion we talked about. Follow the stabilizer’s instructions – usually, you add it to fresh fuel, run the engine for 10-15 minutes to circulate it through the lines – and then top off the fuel tank completely. This prevents condensation from forming inside the tank, which would otherwise mix with residual fuel and cause sludge. For electric MEWPs, the process is a little different, but just as important. Never leave an electric MEWP’s battery fully discharged during storage – that’s a fast track to permanent battery failure. Charge it to 100%, then disconnect the battery if the unit will be stored for more than 30 days. If you can’t disconnect it, use a trickle charger (one designed for deep-cycle batteries, which most MEWPs use) to keep the charge at a steady 100%. Check the battery’s terminals too: clean any corrosion with a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water, then coat them with a thin layer of petroleum jelly to prevent new rust from forming.
Mechanical components are another big part of pre-storage prep, and they’re often the first to wear out if neglected. Before storing, test the lift’s functions: raise and lower the platform multiple times, extend and retract the arms, activate the brakes, and test all safety features like the emergency stop button and tilt alarm. If you notice any leaks – hydraulic fluid, fuel, or even brake fluid – fix them immediately. A small hydraulic leak that you ignore can lead to low fluid levels during storage, which causes air to get into the lines and damages pumps when you restart the machine. Lubricate all pivot joints, wheel bearings, and hydraulic cylinder rods with a manufacturer-recommended grease or oil. Skip generic products – using the wrong lubricant can attract dust or break down over time, leading to more friction. For example, a scissor lift’s scissor arms need a light, waterproof grease that won’t wash off in condensation. Also, check the tires: if your MEWP has rubber tires, inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure before storage. Flat spots can form if tires are underinflated and sitting in one place for months, and repairing flat spots is far cheaper than replacing a set of tires. If possible, move the machine every few weeks even when stored – just a short drive or a lift cycle will prevent tires from setting permanently.
Once you’ve prepped the MEWP, the next step is choosing the right storage location. This is where I see the most variation, and it’s often a case of “one size doesn’t fit all” – what works for a small electric boom lift won’t work for a large diesel scissor lift. First, avoid outdoor storage if at all possible. Even with a cover, outdoor storage exposes MEWPs to extreme temperatures, rain, snow, UV rays, and dust – all of which accelerate wear. A warehouse or dedicated equipment storage bay, with a concrete or packed dirt floor (avoid gravel, which can puncture tires), is ideal. The space should be dry, well-ventilated, and free of standing water – even a small puddle under the machine can seep up through the floor and cause rust on the base. If outdoor storage is your only option (for example, if you’re short on space at a remote worksite), you need to invest in a heavy-duty, breathable MEWP cover, not a cheap tarp. Tarps trap moisture against the machine, leading to mold and rust, while breathable covers allow air to circulate. Make sure the cover fits snugly – use bungee cords or straps to secure it, and tuck it under the machine’s base to keep wind from blowing it off. Also, choose a level spot for outdoor storage – leaning a MEWP for months can put unnecessary stress on its hydraulic system and frame, leading to structural damage. If you have to store on a slope, use chocks on the wheels and ensure the tilt alarm is working to alert you (and anyone else) if the machine shifts.
Inside storage, there are a few more details to keep in mind. Don’t park your MEWP near chemicals, dust, or fumes – these can seep into the electrical components, corrode metal, and shorten the life of hydraulic seals. For example, storing a paint sprayer and a boom lift next to each other might seem convenient, but paint overspray can coat the basket and arms, hardening over time and making it harder to move parts. Also, keep the storage space clear of debris, tools, or other equipment that could fall on the MEWP. If your MEWP has a hydraulic cylinder or basket that extends upward, make sure there’s enough vertical clearance to prevent the unit from being damaged if someone accidentally tries to extend it. Speaking of extensions, if you can, retract all movable parts (arms, scissor lifts, platform) before storage. This reduces stress on the hydraulic system, prevents debris from getting stuck in extended parts, and makes the cover (if you use one) fit better. For electric MEWPs, make sure the charging port is protected from dust and moisture – many people use a small plastic bag or a custom cover for the port to keep it clean when not in use.
Long-term storage, which is anything over six months, requires a little extra care beyond the basic prep steps. I’ve had customers store MEWPs for over a year and get them running like new, while others store them for three months and have major issues – the difference is in the details. First, drain any remaining fuel from diesel or gas tanks if you’re storing the MEWP for more than six months. Even with a stabilizer, fuel will eventually break down, and draining it eliminates that risk. Leave the fuel cap loose a little to allow air circulation, but not so loose that debris can get in. For batteries, if you’re storing them for over six months, remove them from the MEWP entirely and store them in a cool, dry place (a closet or a temperature-controlled storage unit works). Check their charge every month – if they drop below 50%, top them off with a trickle charger – and avoid storing them on concrete, which can cause corrosion over time. For the MEWP’s frame, a quick coat of rust-resistant spray on any exposed metal parts (like the base frame or pivot joints) can add an extra layer of protection, especially if you’re storing it in a slightly damp space. If you have a boom lift, cover the hydraulic hoses with protective caps to prevent cuts, abrasions, or debris from getting inside, which would cause leaks when you restart the machine.
Now, the most important step you can take when storing a MEWP: document the process. I always tell my customers to keep a storage log for each machine, which includes when you put it away, the steps you took (fuel stabilizer added, battery disconnected, hydraulic fluid levels checked), and the condition of the machine before storage. When you’re ready to retrieve it, you can use this log to avoid mistakes – for example, if you know you drained the fuel, you won’t waste time trying to start the engine before refilling it. It also helps with warranty claims or resale later on – a well-documented storage history shows that you cared for the machine, which adds value.
At the end of the day, proper MEWP storage isn’t just a task to check off a list – it’s an investment in your equipment, your safety, and your bottom line. A MEWP that’s stored correctly can last 5-10 years longer than one that’s neglected, reducing your need for frequent replacements or costly repairs. If you’re unsure about any part of the storage process, or if you need replacement parts, covers, or guidance for your specific make and model, our team is here to help. Whether you’re a small contractor with one lift or a large fleet manager, we can walk you through the best storage practices for your equipment, answer any questions about prepping hydraulic systems or batteries, and help you find the right products to keep your MEWPs in top shape. Don’t let poor storage turn a reliable machine into a headache – reach out to our team to discuss your needs and get tailored advice for storing your MEWPs properly.
Tower Cranes References
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 2019. "Safety and Health Regulations for Construction: Mobile Elevating Work Platforms." 29 CFR Part 1926 Subpart L.
- Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). 2021. "Guidelines for Storage and Preservation of Mobile Work Platforms."
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO). 2018. "Mechanical Lifts for Access – Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) – Part 1: Requirements, Test Methods and Test Conditions." ISO 18878-1:2018.
- National Commission on Construction Safety and Health (NCCSH). 2020. "Preventing Equipment Failures Through Proper Storage and Maintenance."
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