Visit any large-scale construction project and you’ll likely see a crane (or several) rising above the job site. Whether it’s a short-term or long-term need, you may find that crane rental is the most efficient option for your project.
As you think about the heavy lift needs of your projects, you may consider buying a crane to support the work for the long term. However, renting a crane instead of buying one allows you to use the equipment, when necessary, without the huge outlay of cash required to purchase one. As you’re exploring your crane rental options, consider the following items to ensure you’ve planned for all potential costs related to renting a crane.
7 Crane Rental Pitfalls to Watch For
1. Insurance
When you rent a crane, one of the most important aspects of the rental is the insurance coverage and liability you may have related to the crane rental. Depending on the type of rental you choose and the location of the job site, the insurance requirements may vary. When searching for a quality crane rental company, you need to know the insurance coverage carried by the rental company. If the rental company or the crane is not adequately insured to operate the crane on your worksite, you may open you or your company up to costly lawsuits or repair bills. Be sure that the crane company has ample insurance coverage on the machine as well as liability coverage related to any labor that is assigned to run the cranes, especially in an operated and maintained rental. Request documentation of this insurance and keep it with the crane while you are using it.
2. Failure to Plan
Before renting a crane, plan out all the activities you will need to do while it is in your possession. Make sure that all the personnel and equipment you will need are standing ready before you make the rental. It is also wise to keep an eye on the weather forecast. There is no point in paying to rent a crane if inclement weather prevents you from being able to use it. Consider an operated and maintained rental for planning help from the crane rental company.
3. Not Considering Travel Times and Traffic Patterns
The hourly rental rate you pay is calculated on a “port to port” basis, which means the rental begins when the crane leaves the branch until it returns to the rental company. Factor in the travel time and — if possible — schedule your pick-up at off-peak hours, so you do not waste time and money sitting in traffic.
4. Renting the Wrong Crane
There are many cranes and crane types that come in many different sizes and configurations to meet specific needs. Be sure you know how much weight the crane you rent will have to lift and how much free space you have around the worksite. Lifting capacity, terrain, weight of the object, height of the lift and distance of the lift are just a handful of factors you’ll need to take into consideration when selecting the right crane for your job. Rely on a trusted crane rental specialist to help you select the right machine for the job so that you don’t overspend on a rental or worse, rent a crane that simply can’t do the job.
5. Crane Operator–Crane Mismatch
As noted earlier, cranes come in various shapes and sizes. Before you sign a rental agreement for any crane rental, especially an operated and maintained rental where the labor is provided, be sure the crane operator has experience with that crane. An unskilled operator at the controls may lead to accidents and delays, all of which could cost you money. At an additional cost, some crane rental companies can provide you with the certified personnel you need to operate the crane safely.
6. Not Considering the Terrain
Not all terrain is the same, and not all cranes can handle all types of terrain. If your worksite is filled with trenches, ruts, mud and rocks, you need a rough terrain, all terrain or crawler crane to tackle more uneven terrain conditions. Truck cranes and even all terrain cranes can be driven over the road and handle smoother surfaces like asphalt, grass or concrete. Make sure you consider the terrain of your job site before renting a crane. Crane specialists at reputable crane rental companies can help you pick the best crane for your lift requirements and the terrain.
7. Renting from the Wrong Company
The company you choose your crane rental from can affect your overall costs. While it may seem that using the cheapest company would be the most cost-effective, that is not always the case. If the rental company offers lower rates because they cut corners on the maintenance of their equipment or do not carry full insurance coverage, you may regret your rental.
To be confident with your crane rental find a reputable company, with a large fleet and national branch footprint that will provide you with a reliable crane and all the help and information you need when selecting the crane for your project.
Rent a Crane with Confidence at Maxim Crane.
Maxim Crane Works is a trusted and reliable crane rental company. Not only do we have the inventory to provide you with precisely the crane you need to get the job done, but its website provides you access to information you need to help you decide which crane is right for you.
You can browse our library of crane rentals, including load charts, to determine which crane has the power you need. You will also find information about determining the weight requirements for your rental and a breakdown of the overall costs of renting vs. buying a crane so you can be sure you are making the smartest choice.
We have more than 120 crane rental specialists across the country who can help you decide your best crane rental solution. Contact us today. We’re always ready to help answer your questions. Contact Maxim Crane Works’ helpful and knowledgeable staff, who are always ready to answer your questions or set up your crane rental.
