Truck-mounted cranes are one of the most popular types of cranes out there. These machines are used in construction, the automotive transportation industries, etc. Truck-mounted cranes as the term suggests are cranes that are mounted on trucks and are transported via an operator. These cranes come with tires that allow them to be driven to different job sites. Plus, these cranes are also able to lift heavy loads and come with impressive maneuverability to make the lifting and shifting task easier. But there is a lot more to that you should know before hiring one from crane rental services. Let’s take a look at what makes truck-mounted cranes a suitable option for many when it comes to handling heavy weights.

What Are Truck-Mounted Cranes Used For?

As mentioned earlier, truck-mounted cranes are one of the most popular types around the world, and for a good reason. Truck-mounted cranes feature a combination of a truck and a crane, enabling the operators and contractors to lift and shift heavy loads.

Now, truck-mounted cranes are available in a variety of different shapes and capacities suited for varying lifting tasks. This is why you see truck-mounted cranes not only at construction sites but also at warehouses and manufacturing plants. These cranes help shift inventory requiring as minimum space as possible.

As compared to tower cranes and other types, truck-mounted cranes are relatively smaller but their weight-lifting capacity should not be underestimated. Truck-mounted cranes are not only able to lift extremely heavy loads but also keep them stable at heights.

Modern truck-mounted cranes come with an array of features to help keep the machines stable and secure while the tasks are being performed. In addition to that, truck-mounted cranes come with a boom that extends and contracts to be able to shift loads at specific heights.

At the same time, truck-mounted cranes are a lot easier to operate. But this does not mean an amateur takes the seat. Truck-mounted cranes should only be operated by licensed and certified individuals.

What Are The Types Of Truck-Mounted Cranes?

Truck cranes come in different varieties, each designed to meet different project needs. While choosing a particular type, you need to define your needs and preferences. This will help you narrow down the options instead of wasting your time and effort looking around and going through each option.

Knuckle Boom Truck Cranes

These truck cranes feature an articulated arm that allows precision and flexibility. These cranes can navigate through tight spaces, making them a lot safer and suitable for urban projects.

Lattice Boom Truck Cranes

When compared to other types, these tend to be lighter and capable of reaching high elevations. Considering their modular design, lattice boom truck cranes are a lot easier to assemble and transport, which makes them an ideal choice for jobs that require vertical lifting over long distances.

Telescopic Truck Cranes

Additionally, these truck cranes also come with a boom that is used for reaching out to objects. This allows the operators to adjust the crane’s reach quickly, making them a suitable choice for both long-range and short-range lifting tasks.

How To Choose A Truck-Mounted Crane?

Now that you are aware of the types of truck-mounted cranes, you need to be aware of the factors that will further help you make the right decision.

Load Capacity

The first factor you should consider is the load capacity whether you need the crane truck for a construction project or heavy machinery moving DC. This single factor alone will make or break the deal. The reason is that you wouldn’t want to pick a crane that is not able to lift the loads required at the job site. It is simply going to be a waste of both time and money.

To prevent such an issue from taking place, you should analyze the weights first and determine the average and maximum load you will be lifting. Then, match the weight requirements with the specifications of the crane. Not only that, you will also need to consider the distance and the angle at or to which the loads will be shifted.

Mobility And Maneuverability

Next, mobility and maneuverability are noteworthy considerations even though truck-mounted cranes are a lot easier to transport. Since they are smaller in size, they can move around within the proximity of the job site without risking equipment and people in the surroundings. But, that does not mean you take this factor for granted.

Before transporting the crane to the site, you need to clear any obstacles and hurdles and make sure to measure the dimensions of the crane to ensure it fits without any complications at the site.

Safety Features

Moreover, cranes need to be equipped with safety features and comply with state rules to ensure weight-lifting tasks are done with optimum safety. There is a high chance that a crane might trip or imbalance while lifting heavy loads.

But, if you were to consider the safety and compliance ratings of the cranes, you would be in a much safer position during the decision-making process. Never pick a low-cost crane with outdated safety features to save money as it could result in serious accidents and legal battles.

Maintenance

Finally, cranes regardless of the type should be properly maintained as they bear the brunt of heavy lighting. Cracks, leakages, and minor damages are a part of the process but negligence isn’t. Some states have strict regulations pertaining to maintenance.

The state will send its representative to personally inspect and go through the maintenance logs. On the other hand, opting for a crane that has not received the care it deserves can be a risky option for everyone at the job site.

That said, while going through the options, you should also consider going through maintenance logs to ensure everything is safe and the crane itself complies with the local rules & regulations.

How Frequent Do Truck Cranes Require Maintenance?

Truck cranes need professional maintenance at least once or twice or more based on their usage. During the off-season, the cranes do not need much care as there aren’t many projects taking place. But, during the on-season, the cranes need to be inspected and maintained both by the operators and professionals.

As a general rule of thumb, the operator should perform an inspection both before and after the working day has ended. This helps them identify and keep track of cracks or damages that could be fixed before the next working day.

But, then again, these repairs and fixes need to be recorded in the maintenance log so that the concerned individuals know what parts were repaired or replaced for future situations.

Conclusion

Truck-mounted cranes are examples of impressive human inventions that continue to evolve as the construction and the weight lifting and shifting practices evolve as well. But when it is time to pick a crane, you should take your time and consult as many experts as possible. Hiring or purchasing truck-mounted cranes is not cheap and can waste a lot of time while construction projects are taking place. So, consider the information mentioned above and only contact reputable crane truck rentals MD.