Ultimate Checklist for Comparing Mortuary Lifts: The Stepper Guide

Revolutionizing Funeral Home Operations with Modern Lifting Solutions

The stepper mortuary lift is an electric stair climbing system designed specifically for funeral professionals to safely transport deceased individuals up and down stairs while reducing physical strain on staff.

Quick Facts About The Stepper Mortuary Lift:

• Weight Capacity: 375 lbs (170kg)
• Total System Weight: 75 lbs (25kg)
• Key Feature: Folding handle allows attendants to stand upright while descending stairs
• Power Source: 24VDC battery with dedicated charger
• Primary Benefit: Acts as a "second attendant" by reducing manual lifting requirements

The number one question funeral professionals ask is, "How can you help me with home removals?" This challenge becomes increasingly important as funeral homes face rising demands with fewer staff members, often using their bodies as collateral in physically demanding situations.

With over 50 years of experience developing specialized equipment for the funeral industry, manufacturers have engineered the stepper mortuary lift to address these exact concerns. Unlike traditional manual lifting methods, this electric system enables safe navigation through narrow hallways, cluttered spaces, and steep or curved stairs that are common in home removal scenarios.

"The Stepper is your second attendant," as industry professionals often note, highlighting how this device transforms a labor-intensive task into a mechanized process that protects staff from injury while maintaining dignity in transport.

When properly integrated with existing removal equipment, the stepper mortuary lift matches the height of standard removal cots when collapsed, allowing for seamless transfer and transportation. This thoughtful design element demonstrates how modern mortuary equipment focuses not just on the technical aspects of body transport, but on creating comprehensive systems that improve overall operational efficiency.

Understanding Different Types of Mortuary Lifts

The funeral industry has evolved significantly in recent years, with technological advances making difficult tasks more manageable. Nowhere is this more evident than in the variety of lifting solutions now available to funeral professionals. Let's explore the options that can help make your daily operations safer and more efficient.

Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts have become a staple in many preparation rooms. With their distinctive X-shaped support mechanism, these lifts provide stable vertical movement perfect for transferring deceased loved ones from a transport cot to an embalming table. While incredibly useful for level transfers within your facility, their design limits them to flat surfaces—they simply weren't built for navigating the challenges of residential staircases.

Hydraulic Lifts

When substantial lifting power is needed, hydraulic systems shine. These robust lifts harness fluid pressure to generate impressive lifting force, making them ideal for larger facilities handling heavier loads. The trade-off? They typically require more maintenance due to their complex components and take up considerable space. Their limited portability makes them less practical for the unpredictable environments encountered during home removals.

Electric Stair Climbers

For many funeral professionals, home removals present the greatest physical challenge. This is where electric stair climbers, including the stepper mortuary lift, have revolutionized funeral service. These specialized devices are specifically engineered to steer staircases safely, addressing one of the most physically demanding and potentially dangerous aspects of funeral work.

Stepper Mortuary Lifts

The stepper mortuary lift represents the pinnacle of transport technology specifically designed for funeral professionals. Unlike general lifting equipment adapted for funeral use, these systems were built from the ground up with the unique requirements of dignified body transport in mind. Their specialized features address the specific challenges funeral directors face daily, particularly in residential settings with unpredictable layouts.

When selecting the right lift for your funeral home, consider your specific needs:

• Will you primarily use it for preparation room transfers or home removals?
• What weight capacity do you typically require?
• How important is portability for your team?
• What storage space do you have available?
• How much training time can you allocate for staff?
• Will it integrate smoothly with your existing removal equipment?

What Are Stepper Mortuary Lifts?

The stepper mortuary lift is a specialized electric stair climbing system created specifically to address the unique challenges funeral professionals face. Unlike general-purpose medical lifts, these systems were designed with direct input from funeral directors who understand the real-world situations you encounter.

At its heart, a stepper lift functions as your mechanical assistant, enabling safe transport of deceased individuals up and down stairs without the extreme physical strain traditionally required. The thoughtfully engineered three-phase lifting process combines mechanical assistance with operator guidance, protecting both your staff and the dignity of those in your care.

What truly sets the stepper mortuary lift apart is its practical approach to real funeral industry challenges. It allows you to:

Steer Diverse Stair Configurations with confidence, whether facing spiral staircases in historic homes or steep, narrow steps in modern apartments.

Dramatically Reduce Physical Strain on your team, helping prevent the back injuries that have traditionally been considered just "part of the job" in funeral service.

Improve Safety During Transport, with stable platforms and secure strapping systems ensuring dignified, secure movement through challenging environments.

Optimize Your Staffing Resources, often allowing a single operator to handle what traditionally required multiple staff members—a game-changer in today's tight labor market.

As one funeral director put it, "The Stepper becomes your reliable second attendant." This perfectly captures how this technology transforms what was historically a physically demanding, multi-person task into something manageable by a single operator in many situations.

By understanding the different lifting options available and the specific advantages of the stepper mortuary lift, you can make informed decisions that protect your staff while enhancing the dignified care you provide to families during their most difficult times.

Key Features to Look for in Stepper Mortuary Lifts

Shopping for a mortuary lift can feel overwhelming with all the options available. Let's walk through what really matters when you're considering the stepper mortuary lift for your funeral home. After helping countless funeral professionals find the right equipment, we've learned which features make the biggest difference in day-to-day operations.

Load Capacity and Dimensions

When it comes to the stepper mortuary lift, capacity is crucial. The standard model handles up to 375 pounds, which works well for most situations you'll encounter. But remember, this isn't just about the weight of the deceased – you need to factor in any additional equipment like body boards or pouches you might be using at the same time.

The dimensions of the stepper mortuary lift strike a thoughtful balance between compactness and stability. At approximately 12 × 20 × 80 inches when configured for transport, it's designed to steer through typical residential settings while remaining steady during operation.

When thinking about whether this lift will work for your needs, consider your storage situation. Will it fit comfortably in your removal vehicles? What about the doorways and stairways you typically encounter in your community? These practical considerations matter tremendously in the field.

The total system weight of about 75 pounds might sound substantial, but it's intentionally designed this way – heavy enough to provide stability during operation, yet light enough for a single person to maneuver when it's not loaded. This careful balance makes the stepper mortuary lift versatile enough for various removal scenarios.

Battery and Power Options

Nothing would be more frustrating than equipment that dies mid-removal. That's why the stepper mortuary lift runs on a reliable 24VDC battery system with a dedicated charger. This self-contained power approach means you're never hunting for an outlet in someone's home during what's already a sensitive situation.

The battery-powered design gives you complete freedom to work anywhere. No cords to trip over, no searching for power sources, just consistent performance throughout the battery's charge cycle. The standard package includes a dedicated charger, and many funeral homes also opt for the car charger accessory for between-call charging.

One funeral director from rural Tennessee told us, "Having the car charger option has been a game-changer for our team. We serve a wide area, and being able to charge between removals means we don't have to worry about making it back to the funeral home before the next call."

If your funeral home serves remote areas or regularly handles multiple removals in succession, consider investing in an extra battery. It's a small cost compared to the peace of mind it provides, ensuring you're never caught unprepared when families need you most.

Think about your typical work patterns when evaluating the battery options. How many removals do you typically handle between charging opportunities? Do your vehicles have accessible charging options? Do you work in extreme temperatures that might affect battery performance? These practical questions will help you determine if additional power accessories would benefit your operation.

Benefits of Using Stepper Mortuary Lifts in Funeral Homes

When it comes to changing the daily operations of a funeral home, few investments make as immediate an impact as the stepper mortuary lift. This innovative technology addresses some of the most challenging aspects of funeral service work, creating a safer, more efficient environment for both staff and the families you serve.

Reducing Back Strain and Injury Risk

Let's face it – funeral service work takes a physical toll. Before modern lifting technology, the profession often came with an unspoken expectation: your back would eventually pay the price for your dedication to serving others.

The stepper mortuary lift changes this narrative completely. With its innovative folding handle design, funeral professionals can maintain proper posture while navigating stairs – standing upright rather than hunched over during descents. This seemingly simple change makes a world of difference.

"I used to take ibuprofen before every home removal, just as a preventative measure," shares a funeral director from Memphis. "Now that we use the Stepper, I can't remember the last time I needed pain medication after work."

This shift isn't just about comfort – it's about career longevity. By reducing the risk of acute injuries and preventing cumulative trauma disorders, the stepper mortuary lift helps dedicated professionals continue serving their communities without sacrificing their physical wellbeing. For many funeral homes struggling with staffing challenges, keeping experienced team members healthy and on the job makes a tremendous difference.

Improving Safety Standards

Beyond protecting your staff, the stepper mortuary lift lifts the overall safety standards of your removal process. The stable platform design maintains perfect balance even on challenging stair configurations, while the secure strapping system prevents any shifting during transport.

What this means in practice is peace of mind. The controlled descent mechanism eliminates the risk of runaway situations that can occur with manual carries, especially when navigating steep or worn staircases. The ergonomic handles are positioned for optimal control, giving operators confidence even in difficult removal scenarios.

This improvement in safety doesn't just protect your team – it upholds the dignity of the deceased and provides reassurance to families during an already difficult time. For more insights on how modern lifting systems improve funeral home operations, check out our detailed guide on mortuary lifts.

Addressing Challenges in Home Removals

"How can you help me with home removals?" It's the question we hear most frequently from funeral professionals across the country, and for good reason. Home removals present unique challenges that can test even the most experienced teams.

The stepper mortuary lift was designed specifically to overcome these obstacles. Narrow hallways that barely fit a standard removal cot? No problem. Cluttered spaces that restrict movement? The compact design steers them with ease. Steep or curved staircases that would normally require four or more staff members? Now manageable with just one or two people.

A funeral director from an historic district in Savannah told us: "We serve a community full of beautiful old homes with narrow, winding staircases. Before the Stepper, those removals were our biggest challenge – requiring extra staff, taking more time, and honestly, making us all nervous about safety. Now they're just another part of our day."

The system's adaptability to different environments means you can confidently serve families regardless of their home's architecture. Split-level homes with multiple short staircases or basement locations with restricted access no longer present the logistical nightmares they once did.

Enhancing Maneuverability in Tight Spaces

The thoughtful design of the stepper mortuary lift reveals itself in the details that make tight-space navigation possible. The folding handle system instantly reduces the equipment's footprint when you encounter narrow doorways or need to make sharp turns. When collapsed, the system perfectly matches the height of standard removal cots, making transfers smooth and effortless.

While substantial enough to provide stability during operation, the lightweight 75-pound construction means a single operator can position the lift as needed. The specialized microcellular wheels strike the perfect balance between traction and maneuverability across varied surfaces – from plush carpeting to polished hardwood.

One Tennessee funeral director put it simply: "Before, there were some homes where we'd walk in and immediately start worrying about how we'd manage the removal. Now, with the Stepper, I can't think of a situation we couldn't handle with dignity and care."

By addressing the physical challenges of removals, the stepper mortuary lift allows funeral professionals to focus on what truly matters – providing compassionate, dignified care to the families who depend on your services during their most difficult moments.

For more information about how modern lifting technology is changing the funeral industry, visit NFDA's guide to ergonomics in funeral service.

Comparing Stepper Mortuary Lifts to Other Lifting Systems

When you're considering an investment in the stepper mortuary lift for your funeral home, it's natural to wonder how it stacks up against other options. After all, this is an important decision that affects your staff's wellbeing and your ability to serve families with dignity and care.

Let's be honest - for generations, funeral professionals have relied primarily on good old-fashioned muscle power and teamwork to steer stairs during removals. While this tradition has served the profession well, anyone who's been in the business knows the toll it takes on your back and the staffing challenges it creates.

Feature	The Stepper Mortuary Lift	Traditional Manual Lifting	General-Purpose Stair Climbers
Weight Capacity	375 lbs	Varies with staff strength	Often lower or higher than needed
Designed for Funeral Use	Yes - Purpose-built	Yes - Traditional method	No - Adapted from other industries
Staff Required	Typically 1-2	Minimum 2-4	Typically 1-2
Stair Navigation	Electric-assisted	Manual only	Electric-assisted but not optimized
Integration with Removal Cots	Designed to match heights	Standard practice	Often requires adapters
Ergonomic Protection	Folding handle for upright posture	Minimal protection	Varies significantly
Funeral-Specific Features	Yes - Designed for dignified transport	Yes - Traditional protocols	Limited - General purpose design
Battery System	24VDC with dedicated charger	N/A	Varies by manufacturer
Training Requirements	Specific but straightforward	Extensive physical training	Often complex

Stepper Lifts vs Traditional Lifting Systems

There's something to be said for tradition, but there's also wisdom in recognizing when technology offers a better way forward. The contrast between the stepper mortuary lift and traditional manual methods is stark when you consider what's at stake.

The physical toll of manual lifting isn't just about sore muscles the next day. We've heard countless stories from funeral directors about career-altering back injuries that happened in an instant on a difficult removal. Even without acute injuries, the cumulative strain takes a toll over years of service.

Staffing challenges are another reality we all face. Traditional methods often require 3-4 staff members for challenging stair removals, which can be a scheduling nightmare, especially for smaller firms. As one director from a rural area told us, "Finding four available staff members at 2 AM for a difficult removal used to be my biggest stress point."

Perhaps most importantly, manual methods create inconsistent experiences for the families we serve. The quality and safety of these removals depend heavily on who's available that day and their physical condition. With the stepper mortuary lift, you provide the same dignified, secure transport regardless of which staff members are handling the call.

Advantages Over Other Electric Stair Climbers

"We bought a medical stair climber on Amazon before finding the Stepper," a funeral director from Tennessee recently shared with us. "It was like trying to use a hammer when what we really needed was a screwdriver – it just wasn't made for what we do."

This highlights an important point: not all electric stair climbers are created equal, especially for funeral service. While general-purpose models offer some advantages over manual methods, the stepper mortuary lift stands apart in several crucial ways.

First and foremost, it's purpose-built for funeral professionals. Every feature, from the 375 lb capacity to the folding handle design, was developed specifically for body transport, not adapted from medical or delivery applications. This means the weight capacity is just right – substantial enough for most removals without unnecessary bulk that makes maneuvering difficult.

The integration with standard funeral equipment is another game-changer. The stepper mortuary lift is designed to work seamlessly with the removal cots and vehicles you already use. No need for awkward adapters or workarounds – the system matches the height of standard removal cots when collapsed, making transfers smooth and dignified.

The operation is intuitive for funeral professionals too. While some general-purpose systems require extensive training and have complicated controls, the stepper mortuary lift uses a three-phase lifting process that feels natural to anyone who's performed removals before. Most staff members can be proficient after just a few practice runs.

For funeral homes looking to protect their most valuable assets – their people – while enhancing their service capabilities, the stepper mortuary lift represents a thoughtful investment that addresses the specific needs of our profession rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Optional Accessories and Customizations for Stepper Mortuary Lifts

When you invest in the stepper mortuary lift, you're getting a powerful tool for your funeral home operations. But like any professional equipment, the right accessories can transform a great tool into an exceptional system custom to your specific needs.

BodyGlide Boards

The challenge of transferring remains between surfaces is something every funeral professional understands all too well. That's where the BodyGlide board comes in – this isn't just any transfer board. Made from high-density polyethylene, it creates a smooth gliding surface that dramatically reduces the physical effort needed during transfers.

"The BodyGlide board changed everything for us," shares one funeral director from our Tennessee service area. "What used to be a struggle between the lift and our removal cots is now a smooth, dignified process."

The beauty of this accessory is its versatility. Whether you're transferring from a hospital bed, residential setting, or onto your preparation table, the lightweight yet incredibly durable construction makes it the perfect companion to the stepper mortuary lift.

Adjustable Strapping Systems

Security and dignity go hand-in-hand during transport. That's why the standard package includes two sets of thoughtfully designed strapping systems. These aren't generic straps – they're engineered specifically for funeral applications with quick-release buckles that save precious seconds during operations.

The adjustable length accommodates different body sizes, while the materials stand up to repeated sanitization without degrading. We've carefully positioned the attachment points to provide optimal security while maintaining a dignified appearance during transport.

For funeral homes serving diverse communities or handling specialized cases, we offer additional strapping configurations. Our team can help determine if your specific scenarios might benefit from these options.

Body Pouches

In challenging removal situations, our optional ballistic nylon body pouches provide an extra layer of protection and security. These aren't ordinary pouches – they're specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with the stepper mortuary lift strapping system.

The materials we've selected strike the perfect balance between durability and respect. They can be thoroughly sanitized between uses while maintaining their structural integrity, and we've engineered them with dignity as the guiding principle throughout the transport process.

"During a particularly difficult removal from a narrow attic space, the specialized pouch made all the difference," reports a funeral professional from our Dallas service area. "It protected the deceased while giving us the security we needed to steer the tight quarters."

Power and Charging Options

Nothing derails a busy day of removals like a power issue. That's why we've developed several power-related accessories to keep you operational in all situations.

Our car chargers are particularly popular with funeral homes serving rural areas. They allow for quick charging between removals, maximizing your uptime throughout the day. For high-volume operations, we recommend keeping an extra 24VDC battery on hand – there's nothing like the peace of mind that comes with backup power when you need it most.

Some of our busier clients opt for dedicated charging stations that keep multiple batteries in optimal condition. This simple addition to your prep room can eliminate the stress of wondering if your equipment will be ready when you need it.

QuickStand Prop Stand

Sometimes it's the simplest accessories that make the biggest difference in daily operations. The QuickStand prop stand provides additional stability during specific phases of the removal process, particularly when you're in the tipping configuration or loading into your removal vehicle.

This straightforward tool reduces the physical effort required during certain maneuvers while providing an additional safety measure during transfers. It's one of those accessories that, once you've used it, you'll wonder how you ever managed without it.

At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand that every funeral home has its own unique challenges and requirements. Our team – whether you're working with our folks in Johnson City, Los Angeles, Dallas, or New York – can help you determine which accessories will complement your specific application of the stepper mortuary lift.

After all, the right accessories don't just add features – they transform good equipment into a customized system that works perfectly for your unique situation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stepper Mortuary Lifts

How Do Stepper Mortuary Lifts Improve Safety and Efficiency?

When we talk with funeral directors about the stepper mortuary lift, they're often amazed by how quickly it transforms their daily operations. This isn't just another piece of equipment—it's a complete rethinking of how removals can be handled.

From a safety perspective, the benefits are immediate and significant. Gone are the days when your team needs to physically carry heavy loads up and down stairs, risking their backs with every step. Instead, the stepper mortuary lift provides stable, controlled transport even on tricky stair configurations that would normally leave you holding your breath.

One feature our customers particularly appreciate is the folding handle design. This thoughtful engineering allows your staff to maintain proper posture throughout the removal process—something your team's backs will thank you for after years in the profession.

"I used to dread calls to those old Victorian homes with narrow, winding staircases," a funeral director from Dallas told us recently. "Before the Stepper, those removals required four staff members and a lot of planning. Now, just two of us can handle even the most challenging removals safely."

The efficiency improvements are equally impressive. With the stepper mortuary lift, you'll need fewer staff members for difficult removals, allowing you to allocate your team more effectively. The system integrates seamlessly with your standard removal equipment, creating a smooth workflow rather than adding complications.

Perhaps most importantly, by reducing physical fatigue, your team can maintain consistent, professional performance throughout long days—something families notice and appreciate during their most vulnerable moments.

What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Stepper Mortuary Lift?

Selecting the right equipment for your funeral home isn't a decision to take lightly. When evaluating the stepper mortuary lift, there are several factors worth careful consideration.

First, think about your typical cases and whether the 375 lb capacity will meet your needs. For most funeral homes, this capacity provides ample support while maintaining maneuverability. Consider the dimensions of the system in relation to the types of homes you commonly serve—will it steer those tight hallways in older neighborhoods?

Battery life is another crucial consideration. The 24VDC battery system comes with a dedicated charger, but think about your operational patterns. If you serve a large geographic area with multiple removals between returns to your facility, you might benefit from additional power management solutions like car chargers or extra batteries.

The technical aspects matter too. At approximately 75 lbs, the stepper mortuary lift strikes a balance between stability and portability. The folding handle mechanism improves ergonomics during operation, while the specialized microcellular wheels provide just the right combination of traction and maneuverability on various surfaces.

"The key is finding a system that feels like it was designed specifically for your operation," explains our specialist from Pittsburgh. "When properly matched to your needs, the Stepper feels less like equipment and more like an extension of your team."

Consider how it will integrate with your existing removal equipment. Does it match the height of your cots when collapsed? Are the transfer mechanisms compatible with your current procedures? These details make a significant difference in daily use.

Finally, explore the customization options. From specialized strapping configurations to transfer boards that complement your procedures, the right accessories can tailor the stepper mortuary lift to address your specific challenges.

How Do Stepper Lifts Address Challenges in Home Removals?

"How can you help me with home removals?" This is the number one question we hear from funeral professionals, and for good reason. Home removals present some of the most stressful situations in funeral service.

The stepper mortuary lift was engineered specifically to tackle these challenges. Take narrow hallways, for instance. The compact design steers restricted spaces that would normally require awkward maneuvering or even furniture removal. Curved stairs—often a nightmare scenario—become manageable because the system maintains stability on varied configurations.

Split-level homes with their multiple short staircases used to mean repeatedly lifting and setting down. Now, the portable nature of the stepper mortuary lift allows for smooth transitions between levels. And those basement removals that everyone dreads? The electric assistance makes upward transport manageable without exhausting your team.

Beyond the physical obstacles, the stepper mortuary lift addresses operational challenges too. When access for multiple staff is limited (as it often is in smaller homes), reducing personnel requirements from four people to two makes a tremendous difference. Time constraints become less stressful when the removal process is accelerated through mechanization.

"We had a removal last month from an apartment on the third floor of a building with no elevator," shared a funeral director from our Southeast region. "In the past, that would have been a four-person job and still risky. With the Stepper, two of us handled it safely in less time than it would have taken just to coordinate schedules for a larger team."

Perhaps most importantly, the stepper mortuary lift helps maintain dignity during the removal process. The smooth, controlled transport minimizes disturbances and creates a more respectful experience—something families may not consciously notice but absolutely feel.

In an era when funeral professionals are often doing more with less—less time, fewer staff, and less room for error—tools that improve both capability and care make all the difference. By mechanizing one of the most physically demanding aspects of funeral service, the stepper mortuary lift allows you to focus on what matters most: caring for families during their time of need.

Conclusion

Investing in the right mortuary lift represents a critical decision for funeral homes seeking to improve operational efficiency while protecting their most valuable asset—their staff. The stepper mortuary lift stands out as a purpose-built solution that addresses the specific challenges funeral professionals face daily, particularly during home removals.

Throughout this guide, we've explored how the stepper mortuary lift transforms funeral operations in meaningful ways. The electric stair climbing assistance dramatically reduces physical strain on your team, potentially saving them from career-limiting injuries. We've seen funeral directors breathe sighs of relief when they no longer need to risk their bodies to steer tricky staircases or narrow hallways.

Safety improvements benefit everyone involved in the removal process. Your staff works with confidence, knowing they have reliable equipment that maintains dignity for the deceased during transport. The peace of mind this brings to your team is invaluable—they can focus on providing compassionate care rather than worrying about the physical demands of the task.

Those challenging locations that once required complex planning? The stepper mortuary lift makes them accessible with minimal fuss. Curved staircases, tight corners, and split-level homes no longer represent logistical nightmares. The system's thoughtful design ensures it works harmoniously with your existing removal equipment, creating a seamless workflow that feels natural.

Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've worked with funeral homes from coast to coast. Our team understands that each facility faces unique challenges based on their community, architecture, and operational approach. That's why we offer customization options to address your specific needs—because the right equipment should feel like it was made just for you.

The funeral profession continues to evolve. Today's funeral directors face increasing pressure to maintain impeccable service while managing tighter budgets and smaller teams. In this environment, the stepper mortuary lift isn't just a convenience—it's an essential tool that enables you to meet these challenges while protecting your most important resource: your people.

As one funeral director from our Midwest Region service area shared with us: "Investing in the Stepper was initially about addressing staff injuries, but it's become about so much more. It's allowed us to say 'yes' to families in situations where we might previously have had to make difficult compromises."

For funeral homes committed to excellence in service, staff safety, and operational efficiency, the stepper mortuary lift represents a significant advancement in how we approach one of the profession's most challenging tasks.

For more insights on lifting solutions and how they can transform your funeral home operations, read our comprehensive guide on Raising Standards: The Essential Guide to Mortuary Hoist Lift Systems.

To learn more about our complete range of mortuary equipment, including lifts, coolers, and specialized transport solutions, visit our detailed overview of American Mortuary Coolers' mortuary lifts.