Big Boys' Toys: The Thrill Of Heavy Construction Equipment

There are several benefits of hiring a crane. People that require the equipment for a short time save hundreds of thousands of dollars that could have been used to buy the crane. Besides, they do not have to worry about storage space and training their employees. Read this extract for some crane hire tips.

Your needs will determine what kind of crane you should hire. Carry deck cranes are ideal for small works or when working in confined places. Crawler and rough terrain cranes are suitable when working in rocky or muddy sites. Go for a telescopic crane if you need to lift massive weights at your site. 

As a rule, you should work with reputable and experienced crane hire companies. When choosing a company, ask yourself these questions:

• Does the company provide customer support services such as free transport and crane installation?
• Does the company provide crane riggers and a crane operator? If yes, who will pay them?
• Will the crane hire company provide maintenance and repair services when the crane is at your site?
• How much does the company charge? Beware of extra fees. For instance, some companies will increase the daily rate during the weekend.

Inquire about the company's liability policy. For example, who will cater for repairs if the crane breaks down at your site? You should not have to pay for repairs caused by the company's negligence. For instance, take a case where the hydraulic system fails because the company did not lubricate the system.

Once you find a suitable company, inquire about the availability of the crane(s) that you need. Visit their premises and inspect the crane. Typically, the equipment should be fully functional. You may want to test it to ensure the engine and hydraulic systems are in excellent condition. You may also be interested in the make and model of the crane. Older crane models may be difficult to operate since they may not have technologies such as a power take-off shaft and power steering. Conduct some background research to ensure the crane provided is of high-quality. Besides, ask whether the crane has a comprehensive insurance cover.

Cranes should be operated in a safe environment. For instance, you should stay clear of power lines. Additionally, do not overload the crane or use it in poor weather. If you have further questions about crane hire, talk to a construction equipment supplier in your area.