Every aerial lift has its limitations on the amount of weight it can lift. Careful consideration should be applied when considering the lifting capacity of any lift. Generally speaking, aerial lifts can lift from 500 to 1000lbs with scissor lifts being able to handle the most weight due to their design. Consider how many persons and tools you need to lift when considering lifting capacity. Boom lifts generally have the least amount of lifting capacity for several reasons, including their long reach and higher center of gravity.