6 Key Factors to Consider When Hiring a Crane
Hiring a crane for your construction or industrial project is a critical decision that requires careful planning and consideration. The right crane can streamline operations, enhance safety, and improve efficiency, while the wrong choice could lead to costly delays, safety hazards, or logistical challenges. Whether you’re lifting structural steel, precast panels, or delicate glass components, understanding what to consider when hiring a crane ensures a smooth and successful project. In the points below, we outline the key factors you should keep in mind when selecting the right crane for your site.
Load Requirements & Lifting Capacity
One of the first and most important factors to consider is the weight and dimensions of the loads you need to lift. Every crane has a specific lifting capacity, and exceeding this limit can compromise safety and efficiency. It’s essential to calculate the maximum and average weight of your materials to ensure you select a crane that can handle the job safely. On top of this, consider whether your lifting needs involve standard loads or irregularly shaped materials – specialised cranes, such as all-terrain cranes or crawler cranes, may be required for specific lifting challenges.
Site Conditions & Accessibility
The layout and ground conditions of your worksite play a significant role in determining the most suitable crane. Factors to assess include:
Ground Stability: If your site has soft or uneven terrain, you may need a crawler crane with superior stability.
Space Constraints: Tight spaces, such as urban developments, may require compact or mobile cranes.
Overhead Obstructions: Powerlines, bridges, or existing structures can limit crane movement and necessitate a specific lifting approach.
By conducting a thorough site assessment, you can determine the best crane type and configuration for optimal performance and safety.
Lift Height & Reach
The height and reach required for your lifts are crucial considerations when selecting a crane. If you need to move materials to multiple storeys or reach over obstacles, you may require a crane with an extended boom length or additional lifting accessories, such as fly jibs. For projects involving structural steel erection, tall buildings, or rooftop installations, a mobile crane with a telescopic boom could be the best choice. Meanwhile, for lifts requiring manoeuvrability in confined spaces, a Franna crane may be more appropriate.
Safety & Compliance
Safety should always be a top priority when hiring a crane. Ensuring that the crane meets Australian safety standards and that the operators are fully licensed and trained is essential to minimising risk on-site. When it comes to what to consider when hiring a crane, it’s important to check that your chosen provider offers:
Fully maintained and regularly inspected cranes
Licensed, experienced, and highly trained operators
Strict adherence to Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) regulations
Comprehensive lift plans and risk assessments
A reputable crane hire company (like Sventek Cranes & Rigging) should provide all necessary safety documentation and ensure their fleet meets the highest industry standards.
Hiring a Full-Service Solution vs. Dry Hire
Crane hire services typically fall into two categories: wet hire (where the crane comes with an operator) and dry hire (where you rent the crane alone).
Wet hire is often the preferred option for complex or high-risk lifts, as it ensures an experienced operator is handling the equipment.
Dry hire may be suitable for companies with in-house crane operators who meet all licensing and safety requirements.
For most construction projects, wet hire is the most efficient and safest option, as it comes with expert crane operators who understand the nuances of each lift.
Transport & Logistics
Cranes vary in size, and transporting them to and from your site requires careful planning. Some cranes, such as all-terrain cranes, offer greater flexibility and can be driven directly to site, while others may need to be transported via trucks and assembled on-site. Also, check whether road permits or council approvals are needed for larger cranes or for projects in high-traffic areas. A professional crane hire company should assist with obtaining the necessary approvals and ensuring seamless delivery.
Why Choose Sventek Cranes & Rigging?
When hiring a crane, partnering with an experienced and professional provider is just as important as selecting the right equipment. At Sventek Cranes & Rigging, we offer comprehensive crane hire solutions, ensuring our clients receive the right crane, the right operator, and the right support for every job. With over 30 years of experience, we understand the unique challenges of construction and industrial projects. Our modern, well-maintained fleet includes mobile cranes, Franna cranes, and crawler cranes, catering to a wide range of lifting requirements – plus, our team of highly skilled riggers and operators ensures that every lift is executed safely and efficiently.
If you need expert advice on what to consider when hiring a crane, or if you’re ready to discuss your project’s specific lifting needs, contact Sventek Cranes & Rigging today for a tailored crane hire solution.