The short answer
A self-propelled scissor lift has its own means of movement, while a non-self-propelled lift is physically moved or pushed by personnel. Both ASPAR types are for personnel working at height; the choice depends first on how the equipment must move between work positions in the actual task.
This guide compares work-at-height equipment. It does not cover industrial scissor lift tables used for goods and material handling.
The fundamental difference
The ASPAR SP self-propelled scissor lift has a self-propelled architecture. The ASPAR NP non-self-propelled scissor lift does not: personnel physically move or push it. This difference establishes the selection logic, but it does not justify universal statements about height, capacity, speed or operating conditions.
When self-propelled movement matters
A self-propelled execution is considered when the work process requires independent movement of equipment between work positions. For a specific site, ASPAR evaluates the task, work areas and required configuration—not the equipment name alone.
When a non-self-propelled execution is considered
A non-self-propelled NP is considered when the equipment can be moved by personnel within the intended work process. Assess where work takes place, how often the position changes and whether self-propelled movement is needed.
Comparison for selection
| Criterion | Self-propelled SP | Non-self-propelled NP |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment movement | Self-propelled. | Physically moved or pushed by personnel. |
| Main purpose | Personnel work at height. | Personnel work at height. |
| Key selection question | Is self-propelled movement needed between work positions? | Does manual movement suit the intended process? |
| Not an alternative to | Industrial scissor lift tables for goods and material flows. | |
Information needed for selection
For engineering selection, describe the work task, work areas, number of positions, how often equipment must be repositioned, whether self-propelled movement is required and which task parameters are mandatory. See the self-propelled and non-self-propelled scissor lift categories.
Common questions
What is the main difference between SP and NP?
SP is self-propelled, while NP has no self-propelled movement and is physically moved by personnel.
Is NP an industrial scissor lift table?
No. NP is a non-self-propelled scissor lift for personnel working at height, not a scissor lift table for goods handling.
Which type should be selected?
Start with the way equipment must move between work positions and the complete site task. ASPAR selects the specific execution after reviewing the initial information.
Next step
Send a description of the work task through the ASPAR contacts page—the team will help determine whether a self-propelled or non-self-propelled execution is needed.