When choosing a hydraulic scissor lift table, one of the most common questions is: Should it be installed in a pit or on the surface? With a loading lip, flaps, or without them?
The answer depends entirely on the operational requirements of your logistics or industrial process. Key factors to consider include the type of goods to be handled, the available space, and how the lift table will be used.
A hydraulic lift table, also known as a scissor lift platform, is an industrial lifting device designed to move heavy loads safely and efficiently. It is widely used across sectors such as warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, and food processing.
When to choose surface installation
If the lift table will be used for tasks such as assembly, packaging, or order preparation, the best option is often a surface-mounted installation. In this configuration, the platform should include safety side skirts to prevent accidents and protect workers during operation.
In such cases, the lift system is primarily used for ergonomic purposes, allowing the operator to adjust the working height and reduce physical strain. This setup improves workplace safety and productivity by ensuring comfortable, adaptable positioning.

When to install in a pit
If the table is required for loading or unloading trucks, especially in facilities without loading docks, a pit-mounted installation is usually the most efficient solution.
The lift table can be raised to align with the truck bed height, enabling direct transfer of goods without any level difference. Once loading or unloading is complete, the table lowers back to be flush with the warehouse floor, keeping the area clear and accessible.
In these applications, it is essential to include manual loading flaps, especially when using manual pallet trucks. Without flaps, the small gap between the lift table and the vehicle can trap the wheels of the pallet truck, risking injury to the operator and damage to goods.

Benefits for ground-level warehouses
For ground-level warehouses (at grade), using a scissor lift table installed in a pit offers major benefits:
- Faster loading and unloading cycles
- Improved operator safety and ergonomic working conditions
- Lower labor costs (requires only one operator)
Custom hydraulic lift tables designed for your needs
At Alapont Global, we design and manufacture custom hydraulic lift tables tailored to each facility’s specific needs. Our platforms are built using high-quality, heavy-duty materials that ensure durability, safety, and long service life.
Our scissor lift tables provide a safe, fast, and reliable solution for handling materials, protecting both your goods and the personnel responsible for them. All our lifting systems comply with the strictest safety regulations to guarantee full customer satisfaction.
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