3 Key Considerations When Choosing A Heavy Crane
Posted on: 29 June 2015
With more and more construction sites looking for ways to cut down on labor costs and scheduling, heavy lift cranes are becoming a critical component of the jobsite. Selecting the right crane for the job requires a lot of consideration and planning to make sure you are getting the right one. From the mobile crane to the lattice boom crawlers, rough-terrain crane and more, there are key factors that can help you make an informed decision each and every time.
Load
One of the main factors that determines what type of heavy lift crane you need is the size of the load that needs to be moved. The first thing to do is determine what the heaviest lift you are going to have is. Beyond the weight of the load, you should also look at:
- How wide the largest module is
- How far the crane needs to reach
- How much the module weighs at its farthest point
- What type of rigging equipment you need to lift the module
- What the actual weight is versus the estimated weight
Site Restrictions
Taking a walk around the site can help with determining the size of the crane needed. You don't have to wait to know all of the details of the job before surveying the layout of the project. Depending on what the site looks like and the terrain of the land, you might be limited in the type of crane available for use. Check out the soil conditions, overhead lines, wind conditions, underground utilities and existing structures before selecting a final crane to be used on your project.
Cost
Cost is a huge factor in choosing which heavy lift crane to use. The larger the crane's capacity and the more accessories the crane has on it, the more you are going to spend on the equipment. You also want to consider how long you are going to be on the project. The longer you are on the jobsite, the more money you are spending on operating the equipment. You want something that can help you get the job done quickly, while still adhering to the specifications of the job.
Take the time to go through the various factors when choosing a crane. You don't want to waste money on a piece of heavy machinery that isn't capable of doing what you need it to. Proper planning and shopping around are the key to a successful purchase. Contact a company like Lockwood Brothers Inc for more information.
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