when to buy and when to rent heavy construction equipment

Three Important Considerations Before Renting A Mobile Crane For Your Construction Site

Mobile cranes simplify construction jobs by helping to lift and lower heavy objects. Mobile cranes can lift materials and equipment ranging from a few pounds to several tons. However, crane applications can be risky, especially if you rent the wrong crane or use it incorrectly. Therefore, ensure safety on your construction site by addressing these issues below when renting a mobile crane. 

Ascertain the Weight of the Load

The most fundamental issue to consider when renting a mobile crane is the weight of the loads you intend to lift. The weight of the load will determine the right crane capacity for the job. Each crane has a load chart that outlines the following information about the equipment: 

  • Lift capacity: This determines how much weight the crane can lift, considering the dimensions of the load and the lifting height.
  • Boom length: This determines the boom's lifting range, considering the lifting height and distance. 
  • Boom angle: This metric defines the maximum angle at which the boom can lift a load without destabilizing the crane.
  • Crane movement: This metric outlines the speed and rotation of the crane to complete a lift. 

You should rent a mobile crane that can handle the weight of your heaviest load. Also, consider other factors, such as the lifting height and the boom angle required for each lift. Failure to do this can cause the crane to lose balance and tip over, leading to injuries and property damage on the site. 

Define the Placement Location for the Crane

Placement location is crucial in choosing the right mobile crane and executing successful lifts. If there is limited space on the site, opt for a compact mobile crane. You can reduce the size of each load to avoid overloading the crane. Also, set up the crane in a safe and sturdy location during each lift. Do not place it on uneven ground where it can tip over. If the rigging job requires the boom to make a 360-degree turn, position the crane where it can complete this turn without losing balance. 

Assess Ground Conditions During the Lift

Ground conditions affect the stability and rigging capabilities of a mobile crane. If the ground is uneven or wet, you need rigging equipment that can withstand the conditions. Therefore, when renting a crane for a longer period, keep in mind that ground conditions may change with changing weather. In this case, an all-terrain crane would be suitable for the job. All-terrain cranes can traverse most surfaces, including uneven, wet, and slippery ones. Also, they can lift substantially heavy loads, which makes them suitable for most construction rigging projects. 

Crane rigging requires experienced personnel to ensure safe and successful lifts. If you don't have trained personnel, ask your crane rental company if they can provide operators and riggers.


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when to buy and when to rent heavy construction equipment

My husband owns and operates a landscaping company. Over the years, he has expanded the services that he offers from simple lawn care and planting services to include bigger, more involved jobs. Because he has expanded, we have had to decide whether to purchase the heavy construction equipment that some of these jobs require, or whether it was best for us to rent them when needed. We have found that some equipment was needed more often than others and have purchased several pieces of equipment that are paying for themselves. Visit our site to learn how to decide when to buy and when to rent heavy construction equipment.