Criteria for Selecting the Best Crane for Your Job

Posted on: 28 December 2020

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Cranes are extremely useful pieces of equipment when it comes to lifting heavy materials and objects at construction sites and other locations. These workhorses come in different sizes and configurations to suit the requirements of different jobs.

If you are looking to hire a crane for an upcoming job, you may be overwhelmed by the wide variety of crane types available for you to choose from. Use this guide to select the best crane for your job.

Crane Load Capacity

Cranes are available in a variety of load capacities. The load capacity of each crane determines the maximum weight it can carry safely. When choosing a crane for your job, consider the weight of the heaviest load you intend to carry and then match that weight to your crane. 

An oversized crane will cost you more to rent, yet you won't be using the extra capacity. An undersized crane won't have the capacity to lift your heaviest loads and will pose a hazard in your workplace.

Crane Dimensions

Physical size specifications are extremely important when selecting a crane for your job. Different cranes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and this can affect their suitability for use in certain locations. For example, the smallest jib cranes may need to be used on construction sites where the use of tower cranes may be impractical.

Crane Lift Height

Cranes have the ability to lift loads to great heights, but not all cranes have the same lifting ability. Consider how high you will need to lift your loads when renting a crane. The right crane should provide the desired reach.

Crane Set-Up

In terms of how they are set up for use, all cranes can be categorised either as fixed or mobile units.

As the name suggests, fixed cranes are operated from a single location at a time and will need to be dismantled before they can be used in a separate location, even within the same job site. Mobile cranes, on the other hand, can be moved from site to site and used in multiple spots within a worksite without being dismantled. This makes them quick and easy to set up.

The right crane set-up for your job will depend on the nature of your work. If you have the need to work from a single spot, a fixed crane will work best. Otherwise, go for a mobile crane.

For more information, contact a crane hire service near you today.