Residential Elevators Questions and Answers2026-01-28T21:38:02+00:00

Frequently Asked Question About Residential Lifts 

Are your Lifts made in the USA?2026-01-28T20:52:17+00:00

We sell Galaxy Lifts. They are built in the USA at their Texas facility, with custom-built lift solutions and factory production.

Can a cargo lift be installed outdoors?2026-01-28T20:56:31+00:00

Yes. Our Galaxy cargo lifts are described as engineered for indoor or outdoor use, using corrosion-resistant materials hardware.

How much weight can your cargo lift carry?2026-01-28T20:53:54+00:00

Many of our Galaxy cargo lift configurations are rated up to 1,000 lbs, with some heavier-duty options like the Voyager HD Cargo Lift rated for up to 1,200 lbs (model-dependent).

Do you offer two-stop and three-stop lift options?2026-01-28T20:58:30+00:00

Yes. Our lift configurations commonly support two stops, and some support three-stop capability (model-dependent).

What is a residential cargo lift?2026-01-28T20:49:37+00:00

A residential cargo lift is a vertical lift designed to move items like groceries, luggage, coolers, and boxes between floors—commonly from ground level to a porch/deck or garage level. We offer 4 cargo lifts, with some built for indoor or outdoor use.

Are platform lifts governed by a safety code?2026-01-28T20:42:08+00:00

Yes. ASME A18.1 is the safety standard commonly referenced for platform lifts and stairway chairlifts, covering design, installation, operation, and maintenance.

Can a cargo lift be a DIY installation?2026-01-28T20:45:37+00:00

Some Galaxy models are marketed with DIY installation options (model-dependent), while other installations are typically completed by professionals. The Shuttle Bolt Together Cargo Lift can be a DIY installation.

Do I need a permit to install a home lift?2026-01-28T20:59:58+00:00

Often, yes. Permits and inspections vary by location, whether it’s a platform lift, home elevator, or cargo lift. We’ll help you gather the information your local building department typically asks for.

How do I choose between a home elevator, platform lift, and cargo lift?2026-01-28T21:01:22+00:00

A quick rule of thumb:

  • Cargo lift: move goods like boxes, coolers, groceries

  • Platform lift / VPL: wheelchair and passenger access for short rises (porch/deck/landing)

What safety features come with these lifts?2026-01-28T20:41:49+00:00

Our lifts have multiple safety features and options such as automatic braking, gate interlocks, and safety switches (like pan/photo beam safety features depending on configuration).

How high can a cargo lift travel?2026-01-28T20:55:19+00:00

Depending on model and configuration, our travel heights are listed from 17 feet up to 27 feet. See our options here.

Are your passenger/platform lifts ADA compatible?2026-01-28T20:59:37+00:00

Some passenger lifts such as our Galaxy Traveler Lift are ADA compatible and ASME 18.1 compliant (model-specific). We’ll help confirm the right configuration for your application.

What are common uses for a home cargo lift?2026-01-28T20:55:46+00:00

Popular use cases include beach houses, lake homes, garages, barns, warehouses, and multi-story homes, especially where stairs make moving heavy items risky.

What site info do you need to quote a cargo lift or platform lift?2026-01-28T20:46:22+00:00

Usually: travel height, desired basket/platform size, indoor vs outdoor, landing/gate needs, and photos or measurements of the install location.

What cargo lift basket sizes are available?2026-01-28T20:57:32+00:00

Galaxy lists multiple basket sizes, ranging from smaller footprints (around 40″ x 40″) to larger baskets (including 87.5″ x 54.25″, model-dependent). See our cargo lift basket size options here.

What does Affordable Elevator LLC sell?2026-01-28T20:37:55+00:00

Affordable Elevator LLC helps homeowners and businesses choose the right cargo lift or passenger/platform lift for moving goods or improving access between levels. We retail Galaxy Lifts products and help match the model to your site and goals.

Do cargo lifts have remote controls?2026-01-28T20:58:14+00:00

Yes. Our cargo lifts commonly include a wireless handheld remote control, with 2-stop or 3-stop remote options depending on configuration. Extra remotes are available as added accessories.

What’s the difference between a cargo lift and a home elevator?2026-01-28T20:38:27+00:00

A cargo lift is primarily for moving items (not passengers), while a home elevator is designed to carry people. If you need wheelchair access, a platform lift / vertical platform lift (VPL) is often the better match than a cargo lift.

Do you offer wheelchair lifts or vertical platform lifts (VPL)?2026-01-28T20:51:17+00:00

Yes—if you’re looking for wheelchair access to a porch, deck, or interior landing, a vertical platform lift (VPL) (also called a platform lift or porch lift) is a common solution. We offer The Traveler VPL.

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