Gathering adequate elevator construction information is essential to selecting a provider that can meet the specific prerequisites of your business. Each distinct elevator type is constructed in its own fashion to meet the purposes for which it has been designed. Whether you require a freight elevator, passenger elevator or a dumbwaiter — selecting the appropriate elevator construction provider is key to meeting the needs of your business.

Just as there are many different types of elevators, there are many types of elevator construction providers. Consider the following when putting together your elevator construction list of business requirements:

1. What are your company's prerequisites or specifications for elevator construction?

2. What type of elevator will your business need?

3. What level of maintenance or service will your elevator require?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find an elevator construction provider that can build to your company's specifications

You should have a list of prerequisites or specifications when you begin your search for elevator construction providers. Ask yourself if you will be carrying passengers or products, need heavy or light use, and be using them frequently or infrequently. The answers to these questions will help guide you in your search.

I recommend: The website for the International Union of Elevator Constructors, or IUEC, has a list with names and addresses of all elevator construction companies affiliated with Elevator Companies of America. Custom Elevator Manufacturing specializes in custom residential and limited application elevators. Their large selection of custom design options is ideal for varied client tastes.

Select an elevator construction provider that will build the kind your business requires

Does your business require a freight elevator or a food service elevator, construction elevator or passenger elevator? Be sure to pick a provider that specializes in building or installing the type of elevator you want for your business.

I recommend: NERAK Systems specializes in pendulum bucket elevators to handle almost any products ranging from delicate foods to chemicals and pharmaceuticals, in addition to abrasive and impacting materials like sand, gravel or crushed rock. SNT Access, specialists in residential and commercial elevator installation, includes product pictures on its website.

Choose an elevator construction provider that services and maintains elevators after installation

Once construction and installation is complete, the best case scenario is that your elevator will operate smoothly and will only need regular maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape. The worst case scenario is that your elevator will experience malfunctions and require repairs from time to time. Plan for this by working with a company that can service and maintain your elevator.

I recommend: Stanley Elevator offers two different options -- an Examination and Lubrication Service Agreement and a Master Maintenance Service Agreement. Depending on your needs and budget, you can compare the two to determine which level of service is right for your business. Park Elevators offers service contracts on their full line of elevators.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you only require an elevator on a sporadic basis, consider a rental. In addition to permanent elevators, some elevator construction companies provide temporary construction elevators for contractors and power plants across the U.S.