When you need to rent a heavy-duty crane to assist with a construction or demolition project, you might face some unexpected questions about the jobsite and the job itself. This is to allow the rental agency to know the type of crane you need as well as the right rigging to include. Note a few of those questions here so you can be prepared with the answers and not have any delay in getting the crane you need for your project.
1. What is the terrain like and are there overhead obstructions?
If your jobsite is in the city and on a concrete pad, your crane might be best if it has tires rather than treads. Treads are good for rough terrain and dirt, as they offer better traction in soft soil. Tires might get stuck in the mud, but treads can also slow down a crane, so they may not be the right choice for city work.
Along with the terrain, you'll need to note overhead obstructions that can interfere with the crane's operation. In the city, that could be wires and cables, whereas in an undeveloped site, that could be trees. Your crane operator will need to know how to work around each of these, so be prepared to describe the site to them.
2. What is the load itself like?
It's not enough to tell a crane rental agency that they'll be lifting "beams" or other such material, as they need to know weight, size, dimensions, and even the shape of the items they'll be lifting. This is to ensure they have the right rigging for the crane available and may also determine the size of the crane itself. Remember that in construction, you don't want to assume that there are standard sizes and weights for beams, tools, framing, and other such pieces, but you'll need have those details ready when you want to rent a crane.
3. What are the physical dimensions of the building or structure?
A crane needs to lift items up but may also need to deliver items across the span of a particular building or structure, so this can affect the size of the crane and the rigging needed. A crane might also need a particular clearance from the building to its bumper. You need to know the physical dimensions of a building or structure, including the width of the surface you're constructing, when renting a crane. This also includes the area around the building, to ensure the crane has proper clearance. Be sure you have these numbers ready when renting a crane so they can ensure you get the best one for your job in particular.
For more tips and information, contact a local crane hire service like Williams Crane Hire.
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