What Is a Wheelchair Lift? Comparing Platform Lifts, Elevators, and More

Updated September 2026

A wheelchair lift is a device that helps people who use wheelchairs move between levels in a building. The most common types of wheelchair lifts include vertical platform lifts and inclined platform lifts. Though not technically wheelchair lifts, elevators can serve a similar purpose. 

However, the term “wheelchair lift” can also refer to equipment designed for vehicles. These vehicle wheelchair lifts are used to load the wheelchair into a car, van, or bus.

Each option serves a specific purpose. With this in mind, understanding the different types of wheelchair lifts can help you choose the best solution for your  needs.

Key Takeaways

• Wheelchair lifts can refer to several types of equipment, including lifts for homes, commercial buildings, and vehicles.
• Vehicle wheelchair lifts are built to load a wheelchair into a car, van, or bus. These types of lifts range from hitch-mounted carriers to platform-style and swivel lifts.
• For moving between levels in a building, the most common solutions are vertical platform lifts or elevators.
• Inclined platform lifts operate along a staircase to move a wheelchair user between floors.

Wheelchair Lift Comparison at a Glance

Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs)

A vertical platform lift (VPL), sometimes referred to as a wheelchair platform lift, is made up of a platform that goes up and down along a vertical track. Most wheelchair platform lifts are built for shorter travel distances, typically up to about 14 feet. That’s why they’re often used for raised entries, porches, decks, or other small elevation changes.

These lifts include built-in safety features to support everyday use. Door interlocks prevent the lift from running if the gates are open, and sensors can stop it if something is in the way during travel.

Vertical platform lifts can be installed in several configurations. Some are unenclosed, while others are fully enclosed or installed within a shaftway, similar to an elevator. You’ll find them in both residential and commercial settings.

Inclined Platform Lifts

An inclined platform lift (IPL) is a type of wheelchair lift that carries a person and their wheelchair up a staircase. Instead of moving straight up and down like a vertical platform lift, an IPL follows the angle of the stairs, using a track mounted to the stairway.

The platform allows wheelchair users to move between levels without having to transfer out of their chairs.  

Because IPLs work with an existing staircase, they are an option for spaces where a vertical lift or elevator would not work. They are most often installed in residential settings. However, some commercial applications may be possible depending on layout and code requirements.

Overall, inclined platform lifts are most useful when space is limited or the building’s structure cannot be changed. It is important to note that many staircases do not have enough space to fit an IPL.

Vehicle Wheelchair Lifts

Some wheelchair lifts are designed to transport a wheelchair or scooter in a car, van, or bus. Instead of helping wheelchair users to access the inside of a building, these lifts are meant for getting around while traveling.

In many cases, vehicular wheelchair lifts use a platform that raises and lowers to bring a wheelchair into the vehicle. On buses and accessible vans, these platforms carry both the user and their wheelchair. This allows them to enter the vehicle while staying in their wheelchair.

Other vehicular lifts move only the mobility device. They’re a good option for people who can get themselves into a vehicle seat but need help lifting a heavier powerchair or scooter. Some attach to a vehicle’s rear hitch, while others are mounted on the side or inside the vehicle.

Additionally, some lifts are made to store mobility devices inside the vehicle. For example, certain systems lift and swivel a wheelchair or scooter through a door opening and secure it in place for transport.

Note: Arrow Lift specializes in accessibility solutions for homes and buildings. Vehicle wheelchair lifts aren’t part of our offerings.

Elevators as a Wheelchair Accessibility Solution

While the term “wheelchair lift” is often associated with platform systems, elevators are another way to help wheelchair users move between floors. In both homes and commercial buildings, they provide easy access to multiple levels.

In residential settings, elevators are a popular choice for traveling between floors. They are a practical solution for full-story travel because they can take wheelchair users up and down multiple floors. In comparison, residential vertical platform lift installations are designed for shorter distances, such as a porch or garage entry.

You have many options when choosing a home elevator, including traditional systems, shaftless models, and pneumatic designs. They are also highly customizable across everything from cab design to interior and exterior finishes.

In commercial environments, a Limited Use / Limited Application (LULA) elevator can also be an option. These elevators provide accessibility where a full-sized passenger elevator might be less practical. LULA elevators have a smaller footprint, and reduced pit and overhead requirements. They can be ADA-compliant when properly specified.

Key Factors to Help You Choose a Wheelchair Lift

When selecting a wheelchair lift, think about how it will be used in your setting. Here are a few key considerations to help guide the decision:

• Travel distance: Short rises, such as a few feet at an entry, are often suited to vertical platform lifts. For full-floor travel, an elevator is typically the better long-term solution.
• Available space: Different lifts require varying amounts of space, and some require a shaft. Your location’s layout will help determine what’s possible.
• Building type: Residential and commercial environments may have different requirements. It’s important to keep in mind code compliance and how often the lift will be used.
• User needs: Some lifts carry both the user and the wheelchair, while others are intended to move only the mobility device.

Contact us to discuss which options can align with your specific space and accessibility goals.

Finding the Right Wheelchair Lift for You

As we’ve discussed, wheelchair lifts come in several forms, each designed to support accessibility in different ways. Understanding the options can help you choose the right fit for your particular situation.

For more than 40 years, Arrow Lift has worked with homeowners and businesses to evaluate needs and recommend solutions. We’d be honored to assist you, too!

Frequently Asked Questions About Wheelchair Lifts