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Using Package Lifts as Dumbwaiters: What You Need to Know

Are you struggling to transport heavy items across different building levels? If so, you may be tempted to consider a dumbwaiter. But there may be a better alternative for your business, a solution known as a “package lift.”

If you only know a little bit about package lifts and you’re hungry to learn more, read on. This article explores how package lifts function and whether investing in one is right for you.

What’s the Difference?

The main purpose of dumbwaiters is to move items up and down stairways. They’re like lifts, and if you want to install one, you will need to have shafts installed within the building in question.

In contrast, package lifts, are installed along a staircase. Because they are not “lifts” in the traditional sense, they don’t require shafts. Package lifts also aren’t limited to vertical movement since they can move diagonally along a set of stairs.

Should You Use a Package Lift Instead of a Dumbwaiter?

At this point, you might be wondering which option is right for you. To make your decision easier, let’s look at what you need to consider when making a selection, and how each option performs.

Space

Package lifts take up more space. However, the resultant benefit is that they can provide the user with a larger platform. Of course, if you’re short on space, package lifts might be hard to implement within a building.

Regulation Codes

Dumbwaiters are often subject to the same codes as passenger elevators. As you might’ve imagined, these rules can be quite stringent and challenging to meet. This can cause issues during the installation phase, potentially making things more expensive.

Package lifts, on the other hand, aren’t really affected by the same regulation codes. This makes them somewhat easier to install.

Weight, Speed & Power

Package lifts can be slower, but they’re able to transport heavier items since they’re able to provide more power. You should think about whether the loss in speed is countered by the other benefits of using a package lift.

Practicality

If you need to transport items across multiple floor levels, a dumbwaiter might be a better option. This is because the elevator shaft can be accessed throughout the building, on all levels.

In contrast, a package lift can only be used alongside a set of stairs, limiting the number of floors that it can service. Nevertheless, if you need help moving heavy items in a large building with only two floors, a package lift can definitely be a good option. This is especially true if you need to transport heavy items.

Ready to Decide?

You might not have known much about package lifts before this post.

Whether or not you use a package lift really depends on your needs. Before you make your final decision, make sure you’re clear about your needs and exactly what you’re looking to achieve.

Would you like some help choosing a package lift? Contact us now and we’ll see if we can help!

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