According to industry reports, over 70% of tree surgeons and roofers now rely on tracked cherry pickers for projects with challenging access. For professionals who work at heights in demanding environments, tracked cherry pickers or spider lifts have dramatically enhanced access solutions. Compact, all-terrain, highly versatile machines with fantastic reach capabilities are now commonly used by specialists combating the most challenging elevated work situations. From traversing narrow garden gates to working on steep or uneven terrain, tracked cherry pickers give advanced versatility and safety that are not found in traditional access equipment.

Unmatched Terrain Capability

Unlike traditional wheeled cherry pickers, tracked machines excel on uneven, soft, or challenging ground conditions.

• Better clearance - easily moves over bumps and rough ground
• Gentle on surfaces - will not damage lawns or pavements
• Stable on slopes - works safely on inclines up to 40°
• Adjustable supports - stays level even on uneven ground

For tree surgeons working in forests, parks, or residential gardens, this terrain adaptability means accessing trees without creating unsightly track marks or getting stuck in soft soil. Roofers benefit similarly when working on properties with landscaped gardens or uneven access paths.

Compact Design for Restricted Access

The slimline profile of tracked cherry pickers makes them ideal for accessing tight spaces.

• Narrow width (some models as slim as 0.8 m) allows passage through standard doorways and gates
• Retractable tracks on some models further reduce the width of ultra-narrow access points
• Variable track width systems provide stability when deployed but compact dimensions for transport
• Folding outriggers mean the machine can be set up in spaces where larger equipment cannot fit

This compact design is particularly valuable for tree surgeons working in densely planted areas or roofers accessing properties with limited side passages. The ability to navigate through standard garden gates can make the difference between completing a job efficiently and facing costly, time-consuming alternatives.

Impressive Reach Capabilities

Despite their compact dimensions, tracked cherry pickers offer remarkable reach:

• Working heights from 13m to over 50m depending on model
• Horizontal outreach often exceeds 15 m on larger models
• Articulated and telescopic booms for precise positioning around obstacles
• 180° basket rotation for optimal working angles without repositioning the machine

Tree surgeons particularly appreciate the combination of height and outreach, which allows them to access branches without needing to reposition multiple times. For roofers, the ability to position precisely along eaves and gables enhances both safety and productivity.

Enhanced Safety Features

Safety is paramount for professionals working at height, and tracked cherry pickers deliver:

• Self-levelling platforms ensure operators maintain a stable work surface
• Proportional controls for smooth, precise movement at height
• Emergency descent systems for safe return to ground level in case of power failure
• Load-sensing technology preventing operation beyond safe working limits
• Wind speed monitors on advanced models to ensure safe operating conditions

These safety features provide peace of mind for both operators and clients, reducing risk while maximising productivity.

Environmentally Friendly Options

Modern tracked cherry pickers are increasingly eco-friendly.

• Bi-energy systems combining diesel for transport and electricity for emission-free operation at the worksite
• Lithium battery options for completely silent, zero-emission operation
• Efficient engines reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact
• Low noise levels are ideal for residential areas with noise restrictions

Tree surgeons working in environmentally sensitive areas and roofers operating in noise-restricted zones particularly benefit from these green credentials.

Cost-Effective Versatility

The versatility of tracked cherry pickers translates to cost savings.

• Multi-purpose capability reduces the need for multiple specialised machines
• Quick setup and teardown save valuable working time
• Easy transportation on standard trailers minimises logistics costs
• Reduced ground damage means less remediation expense after job completion

Conclusion

For tree surgeons and roofers facing the dual challenges of height access and rugged terrain, tracked cherry pickers represent the optimal solution. Their combination of compact dimensions, impressive reach, all-terrain capability, and enhanced safety features makes them the equipment of choice for professionals who refuse to compromise on efficiency or safety.

Whether you are pruning a heritage oak, installing roof solar panels, or accessing a church spire, the right-track cherry picker can transform a seemingly impossible task into a straightforward job. As specialist suppliers like AFI Rentals continue to expand their fleets with increasingly sophisticated models, the future looks bright for professionals working at height in challenging environments.