Choosing The Right 2 Post Lift For Your Garage: The Key Differences
Posted by Jamie on 22nd Oct 2025
Understanding the Different Types of 2-Post Lifts
At Garage Equipment Group (GEG), we know that choosing the right 2-post car lift is a key decision for any professional workshop. Whether you’re running a busy MOT centre, a local garage, or a home enthusiast’s setup, your lift must balance performance, safety, and value.
Our range of 2-post lifts includes everything from entry-level manual models to heavy-duty van lifts — all CE & UKCA certified and backed by our UK support team.
What Is a 2-Post Lift?
A 2-post lift uses two upright posts with swing arms to lift vehicles off the ground, providing full under-car access for servicing and repair. Compared with 4-post lifts, they take up less space and offer easier access to the vehicle’s wheels, brakes, and suspension.
Key Differences Between Types of 2-Post Lifts
These models are simple, reliable, and cost-effective, ideal for smaller garages or startups. Operators manually release the safety locks before lowering the vehicle.
- Example: Eurotek UT40 ECO Manual 2 Post Car Lift
- Capacity: 4 Tonnes
- Power Options: Available in single or three phase
- Best for: General vehicle servicing and smaller workshops
This model provides unbeatable value without sacrificing build quality — a perfect entry-level ramp.
Features of a Manual release 2 post lift.
For busier garages, automatic release lifts save time and effort. The safety locks release automatically at the push of a button, improving workflow efficiency and ease of use. Our Eurotek UT40E is provided with 3 stage arms which will help you with the modern BMW made vehicles which have the akward jacking points which a 2 stage system struggles to meet. They are also provided with double height screw pads, 60 & 90mm Height Extensions which will help you reach jacking points on 4x4 vehicles and small vans.
- Example: Eurotek UT40E Automatic 2 Post Car Lift
- Capacity: 4 tonnes
- Power: Typically 3-phase
- Best for: High-volume workshops that need quick turnaround
Automatic lifts are all about convenience — no need to manually disengage both columns. O
Features of an automatic release 2 post lift.
- Heavy-Duty / Van-Capable 5 - 6 Tonne 2-Post Lifts
If your garage handles larger vehicles such as vans or long-wheelbase models, a heavy-duty 2-post lift is essential. These units feature reinforced arms and columns for extra stability and strength.
- Capacity: 5 or 6 tonnes
- Example: Eurotek UT50E 5 Tonne 2 Post Van Lift
- Power: 3-phase
- Best for: Commercial workshops, fleet maintenance, and van servicing
The UT50E combines power, durability, and electronic safety release — designed for professional garages that handle a variety of vehicles daily.
Difference in size between a 4 tonne and a 5 tonne 2 post lift with automatic locks and 3 stage arms.
Factors to Consider
When choosing your lift, also think about:
- Symmetrical vs Asymmetrical arms: affects door clearance and vehicle positioning.
- Floor and ceiling height: ensure enough space for both posts and raised vehicle height.
- Power supply: confirm whether your workshop runs on single or three phase.
- Usage volume: manual lifts are ideal for light/moderate use; automatic suits heavy daily operation.
Why Choose GEG?
- Over 30 years of garage equipment experience
- UK-based stock and nationwide delivery
- CE & UKCA certified lifts
- Dedicated parts and after-sales support
- Competitive pricing on top brands like Eurotek and Redats
Explore our full 2-Post Lift range to compare specs, prices, and availability.
Summary
Manual Release
UT40 ECO Manual 2 Post Lift - 4 tonnes - Small garages, great value
Automatic Release
UT40E Automatic 2 Post Lift - 4 tonnes - Busy workshops
Heavy Duty
UT50E Van Lift - 5 tonnes - Vans and commercial use
Need advice on the right lift for your setup?
Contact our expert team or visit our 2-Post Lifts page — we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your workshop.