Choosing the Right Vehicle Lift for Your Scooter or Power Chair
Getting around town should never feel like a burden. For many families in the Omaha and Council Bluffs metro area, transporting a wheelchair, power chair, or scooter is one of the biggest challenges to independence. Lifting heavy equipment into a car by hand is not only exhausting, it can also be unsafe. That is where a vehicle lift comes in.
Vehicle lifts are designed to safely load and carry mobility devices so you can travel with confidence. The question is: which type of vehicle lift is best for your needs?
At Mobilis, we help families across the region choose and install lifts that fit both the person and the vehicle. We also provide scooters, wheelchairs, and power chairs, so our team can look at the full picture when making recommendations.
Here’s a complete guide to understanding the main types of vehicle lifts, how they work, and how to decide what is right for your family.
Why Vehicle Lifts Matter
Without a lift, even short outings can be a struggle. Caregivers often strain their backs trying to load heavy equipment, and most vehicles are not designed to handle wheelchairs or scooters. This can lead to fewer trips, less independence, and missed opportunities.
A lift changes that. By making transportation simple and safe, it allows people to:
- Travel to family gatherings and social events
- Handle errands and doctor appointments without added stress
- Conserve energy for the activities that matter most
- Protect both the user and the caregiver from injury
For many families in Omaha, Council Bluffs, and nearby towns such as Bellevue, Papillion, and Glenwood, a vehicle lift is the key to staying active and connected.
The Three Main Types of Vehicle Lifts
Modern lifts are not one-size-fits-all. They are designed for different vehicles, mobility devices, and lifestyles. The three main categories are hoist lifts, hybrid platform lifts, and hitch-mounted lifts.
For More Information on Vehicle Lifts Download our free printable Vehicle LIft Guide. 
1. Hoist Lifts
How they work: A hoist lift uses a powered arm to pick up the scooter or chair and move it into the vehicle. The device is stored inside, which keeps it out of the weather.
Pros:
- Keeps the device secure and dry inside the vehicle
- Works well for many SUVs, crossovers, and minivans
- Protects against road debris and weather damage
Cons:
- Requires enough interior space
- May reduce passenger or cargo room
- Some models require moderate strength or dexterity to guide the device while loading
Best for: Families who want to protect their scooter or chair and have enough room inside their vehicle.
2. Hybrid Platform Lifts
How they work: Hybrid lifts combine the ease of a platform with the protection of inside storage. The user drives the scooter or chair onto a platform, which then moves inside the vehicle for transport.
Pros:
- Easiest for users who prefer not to guide the lift manually
- Keeps the device out of the weather
- Provides push-button operation for simplicity
Cons:
- Requires significant interior vehicle space, which means minivans or full-size vans are best
- Typically more expensive than hoist or hitch lifts
Best for: Larger power chairs or scooters, especially when the user or caregiver needs minimal effort during loading.
3. Hitch-Mounted Platform Lifts
How they work: These attach to the hitch at the back of a vehicle and carry the mobility device on an external platform.
Pros:
- Keeps all interior space free for passengers and cargo
- Fits many vehicles with a hitch receiver, including SUVs and trucks
- Can handle heavier equipment
Cons:
- Device is exposed to weather, road debris, and theft risk
- Adds length to the vehicle, which can make parking more difficult
- Requires a compatible hitch and sometimes suspension upgrades
Best for: Families with heavier scooters or power chairs who want to keep interior space open.
Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing
When Mobilis evaluates which lift is right, we look at several factors:
- Type of Mobility Device
- Lightweight manual wheelchair versus 400-pound power chair
- Larger devices need stronger lifts
- Type of Vehicle
- Minivans are often the best choice for hybrid lifts
- SUVs and crossovers can work with hoist or hitch-mounted models
- Full-size vans provide the most flexibility
- Passenger Needs
- Do you need to keep seats open for family members?
- Is ease of loading more important than interior space?
- Future Planning
- Will the mobility device change in the next few years?
- Choosing a lift that adapts to new equipment prevents costly upgrades
Safety and Convenience Features
Modern vehicle lifts come with thoughtful features that make every trip safer and simpler:
- Secure tie-downs and docking systems keep devices firmly in place
- Power operation with push-button or remote controls reduces strain
- Battery backup on some models ensures operation even if vehicle power is interrupted
- Weather-resistant finishes protect outdoor lifts from Nebraska and Iowa winters
These details may not seem critical at first glance, but they make a big difference in daily use.
Why Local Installation Matters
It is easy to find “discount” vehicle lifts online, but the low sticker price often leaves out essentials such as installation, adjustments, and service. A lift that is not installed correctly can be unsafe for both the user and the caregiver.
Mobilis employs trained, certified installers who:
- Mount the lift securely and safely
- Test the system thoroughly
- Adjust the lift to fit your exact vehicle
- Provide training so you and your family feel confident using it
Unlike national call centers, we are local. If something needs adjustment, you know exactly who to call, and we will be there.
Pairing a Lift with the Right Mobility Device
One of the advantages of working with Mobilis is that we do not just sell lifts. We also provide:
- Scooters for shopping, errands, and community outings
- Manual and power wheelchairs for everyday use
- Lift chairs and other home mobility equipment to complete the picture
That means when you come in asking about a vehicle lift, our team can look at the entire situation: your device, your vehicle, and your daily routine. This ensures you do not end up with a mismatch that causes frustration later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a certain type of vehicle for a lift?
Most SUVs, vans, and crossovers can be fitted with a lift. Cars can sometimes use hitch-mounted models if the equipment is light enough.
Can the lift be moved to a new vehicle later?
In many cases, yes. The lift can be re-installed if you change vehicles, although some custom models may not transfer.
Will my scooter or chair get damaged on an outside lift?
Hitch-mounted lifts are safe and sturdy, but the device is exposed to weather. A protective cover is recommended.
How much does a vehicle lift cost in Omaha or Council Bluffs?
Costs vary depending on the type of lift and vehicle. At Mobilis, we provide clear, upfront quotes that include installation, training, and support with no hidden fees.
Does insurance or the VA cover vehicle lifts?
Coverage is limited, but some veterans may qualify for assistance through VA programs. Mobilis works closely with VA hospitals in Omaha, Lincoln, and across Iowa and Nebraska.
Next Steps: Finding the Right Lift
If you are exploring vehicle lifts for your scooter or power chair, the best next step is a free consultation. Our team will evaluate your vehicle, your mobility device, and your goals, then recommend the right lift with a clear quote.
Call Mobilis at 712-328-2288 or visit www.MobilisMed.com to schedule your consultation.
Final Word
A vehicle lift is more than a piece of equipment. It is a tool that restores independence, protects caregivers, and makes every outing easier. Whether you are traveling across Omaha, running errands in Council Bluffs, or visiting family in Bellevue, having the right lift means freedom without limits.
Mobilis is here to help you find the solution that fits — not just the lift, but the entire system of mobility that keeps life moving.
