Being a mechanic is hard work, but car lifts can make life much easier. Whether you own an auto shop business or like to tinker with vehicles in your home shop or garage, automotive parking lifts make it easy to lift your vehicle off the ground so you can get to those impossible-to-reach areas.

Auto lifts provide a safe way to lift your car off the ground while doing mechanic or body work. Once up on the lift, the vehicle can be secured from falling, which gives peace of mind while working on the vehicle.

There are various types of parking solutions to choose from. Some are designed for small spaces with a low ceiling. These work great for small home shops. There are two post car lifts as well as four post car lifts.

When shopping for auto lifts, look for features that suit your needs and the space available. High quality and safety should be your primary concerns. Make sure the product is finished with powder coat paint to prevent rust. Look for features such as an extra long carriage, automatic electric override, telescoping arms, dual cylinder direct pull lifting, single piece columns made of continuous rolled steel, and single point lock release. Some come with standard stackable truck adapters.

You’ll also need to consider the specifications before ordering a car hoist. The weight capacity for lifts can range from 9,000 pounds to 15,000 pounds. Also, consider the overall height and width as compared to your shop space. Other specifications include lifting speed and lifting height, low pad height, drive through width, motor rating and width between columns.

One way to find exactly the type of lift you need is to order online. Find a website that specializes in auto lifts to get more detailed information and to find a variety of lifts. Read the manuals and descriptions for each auto lift to see what’s available. Don’t forget to check the shipping weight and how much it will cost to ship the lift. If you need installation, some online stores work with local installers depending on your city and state. Be sure to read the site’s warranty information and return policy before ordering.