SmartLift—The Most Frequently Asked Questions

The beauty of being in this industry is that we get to introduce new customers to SmartLift^® glazing machines and their benefits for glaziers. Over the years, we've gotten several questions and we've rounded up some of the most common questions asked by customers. 

1. What is a SmartLift and where is it made?

SmartLift^® glazing machines are mobile vacuum manipulators specially designed for the installation and transportation of glass. SmartLift^® glass lifting machines can also be used by marble and panel wall companies utilizing special cups. Manufactured in Denmark at a state of the art facility, every SmartLift^® machine leaving the plant is identical to the one prior and after.

2. What is the difference between the indoor models /outdoor models?

Indoor Models: The SmartLift^® indoor models are mostly designed for glass manufacturing companies or indoor-only use. These models have a smaller chassis size and limited reach but are designed to operate in the tightest areas with a zero turn design. These units are not capable of operating in adverse weather conditions but excel in production type atmospheres. Moving glass from frames to tables or loading a truck has never been so easy and only requires one person

Outdoor Models: The SmartLift^® indoor/uutdoor models also know as the High Lifter (HL) Series are specially designed to operate in all types of weather conditions as well as on all different ground surfaces—including dirt, grass, gravel, sand, or snow. This is accomplished by the over-sized rear dual tire design and the foam-filling designed to eliminate bounce. While maintaining the 100 percent battery design, most of these models can fit and carry glass through a standard 36" door. The SmartLift^® HL series maintains a compact chassis design that allows maximum reach and lifting capabilities.

3. How much can the SmartLift Equipment lift?

The largest SmartLift^® model has the lifting capability of over 1800 lbs. SmartLift^® has six unique models all with different lifting capabilities. Our most popular ranges are the following: 880lbs, 1340lbs, and 1818lbs.

4. Can the SmartLift really set glass?

A machine that will eliminate the need for manually lifting glass sounds great right but will it really work? The answer is absolutely. Here's why: SmartLift^® glazing machines have been designed to give the operator 1/64th of a inch movements. This precision is achieved by a dual speed remote that activates the proprietary battery powered actuators. Each unit also has more than four inches of side shift making it easy to install no matter the system—pre-glazed, pocket glaze, or butt glaze. From storefronts to curtain-walls to inside out installations—SmartLift^® glass lifters can install it all.

5. How can I install glass on the second floor and above with SmartLift?

Installing glass or windows on multiple floors is accomplished with the SkyLifter SL400. It attaches directly to any tele-handler, lull, or forklift and eliminates crane cost to customers. With a lift capacity of more than 800lbs, this unit still has the same precision as all the other SmartLift^® models: 1/64th of a inch. Remote control operated, it provides customers with a safe and effective option during the installation process.

6. How long can I run the SmartLift before the battery dies?

Normal run times on the different SmartLift^® models varies between 20-30 hours of continued usage. Every SmartLift^® is equipped with a smart-charger that allows you to have the unit plugged in at any point of the battery cycle.

7. What is the typical availability of SmartLift parts?

In the US, while learning about the equipment many customers have expressed concerns about parts availability. Great Lakes Lifting CEO, Don Brooks who has more than 35 years of experience in the construction industry, knows the cost of lost time due to not being able to obtain parts. That's why Great Lakes maintains more than 200 thousand dollars worth of spare parts inventory and train technicians who can be anywhere in the country within 24 hours of service call.

8. What is SmartLift availability in the US?

Although inventory numbers change everyday, Great Lakes Lifting has most models in stock while others might have two to four week waiting periods. We encourage our customers to place orders two or three months prior to major project start dates to ensure availability. 

9. How much does SmartLift cost?

Most of our customers are seeing the total cost of this equipment being paid off just 30-45 days of use on the job. If you want to know the price of any model or how the unit pays for itself in 30-45 days please contact our team. We offer competitive rental agreements and financial options that make renting from Great Lakes Lifting an affordable option for most.

10. How can I get more information about the SmartLift?

Aside from our website, our team is available to answer any questions you may have. You can call us or shoot us an email and we will be sure to get back to you within 24 to 48 hours. Ready to get started? Contact us today.