Many contractors or construction company owners rent cranes for their work, as it's usually cheaper overall than owning and then storing and maintaining their own crane. Because renting a crane is not like renting a car, you need to ensure you consider all factors involved when choosing a crane rental. If you're relatively new to the construction industry or are just now starting to take on high-rise work that needs a crane, note a few of those factors here so you get the right option for your needs.
Safety instruction for bare rentals
A bare rental refers to a crane that is hired without an operator. Even if you have a certified crane operator on staff, it's good to note if there are safety instructions included in your crane rental. A crane may have a different control panel than what your operator was trained on and, rather than wait for him or her to get accustomed to it on their own, safety instructions can allow them to start operating the crane right when it arrives. It can also ensure they know to allow for the proper clearance of that crane in particular. This will ensure your overall safety.
Moving the crane
As you use the crane, you want to think of how easily it can move from one location to another. Treads might slow it down too much whereas tires might not provide the traction needed over rough terrain or over broken concrete, soil that is not compacted, and other such surfaces. A truck-mounted crane may be a good choice if you'll need to consistently move the crane around no matter the terrain, as this can usually mean faster movement and easier transport. Ask the rental agency for advice on what type of tires or treads are recommended or if a truck-mounted crane would be a better choice for you.
Obstructions
You may know to note the physical dimensions of the building you'll be working around when renting a crane, but don't forget to take into account obstructions. If the crane needs to work around power lines, trees, other outbuildings around the building being constructed, and the like, you may need a longer reach or may need a telescopic crane that reaches straight up rather than has an arm that unfolds.
Weight of items lifted for rigging
The rigging you want for the crane may be affected by the type of items you're lifting, such as concrete chunks versus metal beams, but the weight may also affect the rigging you need. Heavier items may be better lifted with a scoop versus a claw, so they remain in the bucket without risk of putting too much weight on the rigging.
For more information, contact companies like Freo Group.
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