Moving Storage Safely Without Using Stairs

Back in 2013, the organization moved into a former YMCA facility. One of the building’s more unusual characteristics was a racquetball court and gymnasium area located in the basement that extended vertically into the main floor above.

The space created an excellent opportunity for storing seasonal inventory and clothing donations. However, there was a major problem: volunteers—many of whom were senior citizens—would have needed to repeatedly carry boxes up and down stairways throughout the day.

For both safety and practical reasons, that approach was not realistic.

At the same time, installing a traditional commercial elevator system was cost prohibitive. Local regulations in Indiana also placed significant restrictions on elevators and dumbwaiter systems, making those options even more complicated.

Designing a Practical Box-Lifting System

To solve the problem, the organization engineered a custom framed shaft structure around a VersaLift unit. The system was configured so the lift could be accessed from the main level on one side and from the basement storage area on the opposite side.

An opening was carefully built into the wall on the upper level to utilize the lift’s vertical travel while discouraging any misuse of the platform. Additional safety measures—including sliding access doors and safety chains—were incorporated into the design.

During the inspection process, state officials reviewed the installation and were shown that the VersaLift was a commercially manufactured lift intended specifically for transporting boxes and stored items—not people.

Following their review, the state ultimately allowed the installation to operate without the ongoing inspection requirements and insurance obligations typically associated with elevator systems.

Long-Term Daily Operation

The lift has remained in regular operation since 2013.

According to the organization, the unit is typically used approximately five days per week and averages roughly six to eight lifting cycles per day. Over more than a decade of operation, that equates to an estimated 24,000 total lift cycles.

To help maintain consistent performance, the organization primarily moves standardized storage boxes and makes an effort to keep loads balanced during operation.

Service History Over More Than 10 Years

Despite the heavy usage, maintenance requirements have reportedly been minimal.

Over the years, the organization has:

• Replaced the corded controller switch four times
• Shortened the controller cord once to eliminate a worn section near the strain-relief fitting

The organization also emphasizes that this level of continuous operation likely exceeds the original residential intent of the product. They acknowledge that VersaLift is not marketed as a commercial lift system and that their installation represents a unique application for their facility.