Are you breaking ground on a construction project and wondering which type of construction crane truck will work best? As the best crane service company in Tucson, AZ, Hook Crane Services can help you choose the right crane. Keep reading to learn how to decide the best crane truck for the job.

Types of Cranes for Construction Projects

One of the advantages of crane trucks in building projects is that you can find multiple types. Each type of crane has different benefits and disadvantages, but three varieties remain the most common.

Mobile

The advantage of mobile crane trucks in construction is that you can use them in multiple locations. So if you have a large site or your project incorporates several locations, you might opt for this type of crane. The biggest disadvantage is that mobile cranes usually have lower lifting capacity.

Crawler

Among the different types and uses of construction crane trucks, the crawler remains a popular option. While they’re mobile, they use tracks instead of wheels, which enables them to traverse more difficult worksites. However, these cranes are difficult to transport and take time to set up before you can operate them.

Telehandlers

Telehandlers are a mix of a crane and forklift. They offer increased mobility and reach and you can equip them with various attachments for better flexibility. Telehandlers are more susceptible to safety issues like tipping or the challenges of rugged terrain.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Crane

When you’re choosing which construction crane truck to use for your project, consider the following factors.

Load Capacity

The utility of construction crane vehicles depends highly on how much they can lift, which is probably the most important consideration in choosing the right one. You might feel tempted to get the highest capacity crane. However, cranes with lower lifting capabilities often have extra features that offer other benefits.

Know the weight of the materials you’re lifting so you can find the right balance of power, maneuverability, and flexibility. 

Height and Radius

You can find crane heights up to 260 feet, but you can use several different methods to extend their reach. The lift radius is also an important consideration, as it determines the horizontal distance the crane can swing a load without changing the location itself.

If you have a site with narrow spaces, you could benefit from a crane with a smaller radius. However, a higher radius can help you move your materials over a greater distance without going through the process of moving your crane. In general, the lower your lift radius, the higher your lift capacity.

Movement Distance

Consider how far you’ll need to move the crane to help transport materials, as well as the path you’ll take. If you need faster movement or have a farther distance between locations, you’ll find a mobile crane with wheels is your best option. Conversely, if you have short transportation distances and a fixed path, you’d benefit more from a crawler crane.

Site Conditions

As an essential part of construction site safety, always consider the site conditions when choosing your crane. The conditions at your site also affect how well you can optimize efficient lifting with crane trucks on construction sites. Factor in the following conditions in your crane choice:

• Terrain: If your site has difficult terrain, you’ll need to consider what type of mobility your crane offers. Ignoring a rugged work site can lead to serious injury or damage if the crane tips over.
• Weather: Sites with consistently high winds require more stable cranes, and a lot of rain can also make the terrain more difficult. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can adversely affect crane operations.
• Structures: Powerlines and other potentially hazardous structures should play an important factor when deciding what type of crane you choose. It should help determine the height and radius you can allow.

Accessibility and Regulations

Your effectiveness in deploying crane trucks for building and infrastructure depends largely on the site’s accessibility and your location’s regulations. For example, can you use a crane that you can transport on-site, or do you need one you can assemble? Check local zoning laws to confirm what type of equipment you’re allowed on site.

Hook Crane Services Solves Your Crane Contracting Problems

If you’re looking for the best construction crane truck for your project, Hook Crane Services can help you choose. From finding suitable crane equipment for your project to providing certified operators, we meet all your crane needs. Contact us for a free quote, or call 520-323-0963 to speak with a team member.