We are not going to quote figures here, because a lift price depends on decisions specific to your building. What we can do is set out the variables, so you can read a quotation properly and compare like with like.
Prices move with exchange rates, shipping and clearing costs, and equipment availability. Ask for a current written quotation with a stated validity period.
Equipment variables
- Rated load and the number of passengers
- Travel distance, number of stops and entrances
- Speed, which drives drive and controller selection
- Machine-room-less or conventional machine room arrangement
- Traction or hydraulic, and the duty the lift will see
- Brand and country of manufacture
Building variables
Shaft accuracy, pit depth, headroom and the power supply all affect cost. Retrofitting into an existing building usually costs more than a lift planned into a new structure, because builder's work has to be created rather than provided.
Finishes
- Car interior: painted steel, hairline stainless, glass or timber panelling
- Landing doors and architraves
- Car operating panel and landing fixtures
- Flooring, ceiling and lighting specification
- Glass or panoramic cars, which change both cost and lead time
Costs that are easy to overlook
- Shipping, clearing, inland haulage and site offloading
- Scaffolding, hoisting and temporary power during installation
- Builder's work: shaft finishing, pit waterproofing, machine room ventilation
- Commissioning, load testing and handover documentation
- Operator training and the first period of maintenance
Reading a lift quotation
- Confirm the specification: load, stops, speed, drive type and finishes
- Check what is excluded and who provides builder's work
- Check delivery lead time and quotation validity
- Ask for the maintenance rate after the warranty period
- Check payment stages against measurable milestones
